Wonderful Town: New York Stories from The New Yorker : Book Review

David Remnick's book, 'Wonderful Town: New York Stories from The New Yorker,' is an enthralling assortment of his most compelling articles about the vibrant city of New York. Remnick, the esteemed editor of The New Yorker, delves into every facet of the city with his keen observations and elegant writing style. The book covers an extensive range of topics, from captivating profiles of iconic figures like Frank Sinatra and Joe DiMaggio to the intimate experiences of ordinary New Yorkers during moments of crisis. Remnick's exceptional ability to capture the essence of the city and its people makes 'Wonderful Town' truly exceptional.

One of the strengths of 'Wonderful Town' is Remnick's skill in bringing the vivacity of New York City to life through his evocative writing. His descriptions of the city's neighborhoods, streets, and famous landmarks are so vivid that readers are transported right into the heart of the action. Whether it's his portrayal of the bustling Times Square or his vivid depiction of the gritty atmosphere on the Lower East Side, Remnick's prose paints a vivid picture.

Furthermore, Remnick's talent for storytelling shines brightly in 'Wonderful Town.' Each article is a narrative in itself, offering a unique perspective on the city and its diverse inhabitants. His interviews with influential figures, both well-known and relatively unknown, provide captivating insights into their lives and experiences in New York. Remnick's exceptional ability to capture the essence of a person in his writing makes each profile a compelling read.

Another notable aspect of 'Wonderful Town' is Remnick's exploration of New York City's rich history, culture, and politics. These articles delve into significant events and issues such as the aftermath of 9/11 and the impact of immigration on the city. Remnick's thought-provoking analysis sheds light on the complexities of life in New York and the various forces that shape it.

In conclusion, 'Wonderful Town' is an engrossing collection of essays that showcases the beauty and allure of New York City. David Remnick's brilliant writing style, combined with his ability to encapsulate the heart and soul of the city and its diverse inhabitants, make this book a must-read for anyone intrigued by the ever-evolving landscape of New York.

What are readers saying?

"Wonderful Town" by David Remnick is a collection of essays that delve into various aspects of life in New York City. The book has received a mixed reception from readers, with differing opinions on its merits.

Some reviewers praised Remnick's writing style, finding it captivating, eloquent, and insightful. They appreciated his ability to vividly describe the city and offer in-depth analysis of its many facets. Readers found his exploration of New York's history, neighborhoods, and diverse characters fascinating and engaging.

Others commended Remnick for his extensive research and attention to detail. They enjoyed learning about the cultural, social, and political aspects of the city, finding the information to be compelling and well-researched. The wide range of topics covered in the essays also appealed to many readers.

However, some reviewers felt that the book lacked cohesion and a clear narrative. They found it to be a collection of disjointed essays, which made it difficult to stay engaged. Some readers also felt that certain essays were outdated, particularly those focused on events that occurred several years ago.

Opinions also varied on Remnick's perspective and portrayal of the city. While some readers appreciated his balanced and nuanced approach, others felt that his view of New York was overly romanticized and failed to capture its complexities and challenges. Some reviewers also expressed disappointment that there were fewer personal anecdotes and experiences from the author in the book.

WonderfulTown BookClub MustRead