Modern New York: The Illustrated Story of Architecture in the Five Boroughs from 1920 to Present

Come for the beautiful illustrations of noteworthy New York buildings and stay for the insightful historical, social, political, and architectural context the author provides. A wonderfully illuminating and approachable story of the city as told through its structures.

I originally bought this for the lovely drawings, (they’re superb) but reading through, it is also jam packed with history and compelling anecdotes. I’ve yet to even visit New York, but have learned so much that I can’t wait to go. I would highly recommend for anyone who has even a passing interest in the city or architecture in general. You'll learn so much as you read through its evolution from the 1920s onwards.

Great book about NYC

It's full of funny little stories about buildings you think you know + serious stories about completely unknown buildings from all corners of the city. And the drawings are beautiful.