When the Astors Owned New York: Blue Bloods & Grand Hotels in a Gilded Age : Book Review

"When the Astors Owned New York: Blue Bloods and Grand Hotels in a Gilded Age" by Justin Kaplan offers a captivating and detailed exploration of the influential Astor family in New York City during the Gilded Age. Kaplan provides a rich account of the Astors' rise to power, their extravagant lifestyles, and their profound impact on the city's social, cultural, and economic development.

The book delves into the Astor family's humble beginnings as German immigrants, their shrewd investments in real estate, and their eventual ascent to becoming one of the most powerful families in New York. Kaplan skillfully weaves together personal stories, historical records, and archival resources, bringing to life the opulence and grandeur of the Astors' world.

Moreover, Kaplan offers a thought-provoking analysis of the Astors' philanthropic endeavors, shedding light on the underlying motivations behind their acts of charity. He explores the intricate relationships between the Astors and other prominent families of the time, revealing the complex social hierarchy that governed New York during this era.

Kaplan's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book a delightful read for both history enthusiasts and those new to the subject. His meticulous research and attention to detail shine through in every chapter, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the Astor family and their profound influence on the development of New York City.

Overall, "When the Astors Owned New York" is a well-crafted and informative exploration of the Gilded Age and the significant role the Astor family played in shaping the city. Kaplan's narrative prowess and extensive research make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history of New York City and the individuals who contributed to its remarkable transformation.

What are readers saying?

The reception of "When the Astors Owned New York" by Justin Kaplan among readers has been mixed. While some found the book engaging and informative, others felt that it lacked depth and failed to provide a comprehensive exploration of the topic.

Many readers appreciated Kaplan's writing style, finding it both engaging and accessible. They enjoyed the way he presented the history of the Astor family and their impact on New York City. Kaplan's storytelling approach was particularly praised, as it made the book enjoyable to read and kept readers interested in the subject matter.

However, there were also reviewers who felt that the book lacked depth. They believed Kaplan focused too much on the Astor family itself, neglecting to provide a broader exploration of the societal and cultural context in which they operated. This limited the overall impact of the book and left readers wanting a more comprehensive read.

Another point of contention among reviewers was the organization of the book. Some found the chronological structure to be disjointed and confusing. They expressed a desire for a more coherent narrative that would have made it easier to follow the progression of events and understand the family's significance.

Additionally, some readers felt that the book could have benefited from more in-depth analysis and interpretation. While they appreciated the historical facts provided, they wished for more critical insights and a deeper exploration of the Astor family's influence on New York City.

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