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srvest's review
informative
reflective
medium-paced
4.5
I’ve long been a fan of Horwitz and this is classic Horwitz style storytelling, but sadly is his last book as he passed away soon after publication. This book did not disappoint.
walkerharrison's review
5.0
What a piece of writing. I’d be hard pressed to think of a book more tailor-made for my interests. Ever since being introduced to George Plimpton’s participatory journalism, I’ve loved the genre, seeking out books that offer a sense of place, a willingness to push boundaries into unknown situations, or in this case, “a mix of travel, journalism, history and memory.” Frederick Law Olmsted, architect of Central Park, once journeyed through the South in the 1850s as a NYT correspondent, and this book’s author, Horowitz, replicated that journey in 2016. Even centuries apart, both moments in time are fraught by tense distrust and misunderstanding of those in different places of the country just like now. And in the face of that, Horowitz does what others have attempted (sitting down with folks in places that feel left behind by the “coastal elites”) with more grace, clarity, and historical context about the *non-inherent* reasons for the South’s problems throughout the years. After just completing my trip out to Texas, it was also cool to read how my trip would have been different, if I, like Olmsted and Horowitz, had done some of the journey on horse or mule-drawn carriage. For sure, I’m glad to have had the air-conditioned car.
betweentheshelves's review
3.0
This book is well-researched, well-written, and about a part of history I didn't know much about. But, just not my cup of tea. It will lead to interesting discussion at book club, though!
cameesreads's review
4.0
This work of nonfiction had a truly unique premise - a seasoned journalist follows the path that Frederick Law Olmsted did in the south in the 1850's. While this may not sound too exciting to most, Horwitz filled the tale of his journey with history and humor that kept the story going at a good pace. Since I am currently stuck at home most of the time it was nice to read his well written account of travels in the American south. I really felt like I got a feel for the places he visited and the people he encountered. I enjoyed how he compared his experiences to Olmsted's and I found it interesting that while a lot has changed since Olmsted's trip, many things have also stayed the same.
While reading this I wasn't aware that Tony Horwitz passed away nearly a year ago. I felt heartbroken because it was such a great time reading Spying on the South and getting to travel along with him through his writing. He made the perfect travel companion and guide.
While reading this I wasn't aware that Tony Horwitz passed away nearly a year ago. I felt heartbroken because it was such a great time reading Spying on the South and getting to travel along with him through his writing. He made the perfect travel companion and guide.