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berlyhansen's review against another edition
3.0
Technically, I read to page 331 and just didn't care enough to keep going.
kandrew137's review against another edition
4.0
This book is epic - literally. Spans the history of New York from the Dutch settlements of the 1600s through the effects of 9/11, following fictional families through the biggest events in the city's history. It's a commitment to read, but worth it.
kkellymsu's review against another edition
5.0
This book was fascinating. It was so well researched and well written. I feel that I learned a ton, but I was thoroughly entertained the entire time I was reading. I can't wait to go back and read his other novels.
theoglibrarianmom's review against another edition
4.0
This book is wonderfully researched and a lovely read. There are parts that could have been shorter, but overall a delightful read.
tiffanyhudson's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
catmom21's review against another edition
informative
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
3.5
Enjoyable, but not as good as Ken Follett.
35lauriemb's review against another edition
1.0
Too wordy and contrived. Situations and long-winded conversations that went no where. Just dropped off from the story line. Had potential, but alas.....
cyn75's review against another edition
5.0
Quite a commitment this one, but I'm glad I read it. Very cleverly done, with an amazing amount of research, and beautifully written. Highly recommended.
timnorman's review against another edition
3.0
Rather unremarkable. It's basically a collection of short stories held together by a family lineage and that it takes place in New York City.
Some chapters are better than others; the early chapters when it's a Dutch trading post, the city during the revolution, and during the Gilded Age were my favourite sections because you could see the city grow and change over time, but after that it just stagnates and the book focuses too much on the personal life of one character (who is probably the least interesting of the main characters.)
It ends on a weak and fluffy note. Considering how the author took a balanced view writing earlier sections and didn't just parrot legends of American exceptionalism I was disappointed to see how the ending was a bit of a lazy cop out.
It was an "alright" book, it's strength is in the beginning and middle where you can see the origins and developments that made the city what it is today. Once the book moves away from how the characters see and live in the city it loses steam and finishes weak.
Some chapters are better than others; the early chapters when it's a Dutch trading post, the city during the revolution, and during the Gilded Age were my favourite sections because you could see the city grow and change over time, but after that it just stagnates and the book focuses too much on the personal life of one character (who is probably the least interesting of the main characters.)
It ends on a weak and fluffy note. Considering how the author took a balanced view writing earlier sections and didn't just parrot legends of American exceptionalism I was disappointed to see how the ending was a bit of a lazy cop out.
It was an "alright" book, it's strength is in the beginning and middle where you can see the origins and developments that made the city what it is today. Once the book moves away from how the characters see and live in the city it loses steam and finishes weak.