The Greatest "Nonfiction, New York" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Nonfiction

New York

The "New York" category of books typically refers to literature that is set in or explores the city of New York. These books may focus on the city's history, culture, and landmarks, or they may delve into the lives of its diverse inhabitants. From gritty crime novels to romantic comedies, the "New York" category encompasses a wide range of genres and styles, all united by their connection to one of the world's most iconic cities. Whether you're a native New Yorker or a curious outsider, these books offer a unique glimpse into the heart of the Big Apple.

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  1. 1. The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley

    This book is an autobiography narrating the life of a renowned African-American activist. It delves into his transformation from a young man involved in criminal activities to becoming one of the most influential voices in the fight against racial inequality in America. The book provides a deep insight into his philosophies, his time in prison, conversion to Islam, his role in the Nation of Islam, his pilgrimage to Mecca, and his eventual split from the Nation. It also addresses his assassination, making it a powerful account of resilience, redemption, and personal growth.

  2. 2. The Federalist Papers by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay

    "The Federalist Papers" is a collection of 85 articles and essays written to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution. These works discuss the benefits of a stronger national government, the proposed structure of the government, and the division of powers among its various branches. They also address criticisms of the Constitution and detail the failures of the Articles of Confederation. The papers remain a primary source for interpretation of the U.S. Constitution and the intentions of its framers.

  3. 3. The Power Broker by Robert Caro

    This book is a biography of Robert Moses, a powerful figure in New York City and state politics, who wielded immense influence over the urban development of the area in the mid-20th century. Despite never holding elected office, Moses was responsible for the creation of numerous parks, highways, bridges, and public works throughout the city and state. The book delves into the methods Moses used to achieve and maintain his power, his impact on the city, and the controversial legacy he left behind.

  4. 4. Zami: A New Spelling of My Name by Audre Lorde

    This book is a biomythography, blending history, biography, and myth, of a young, black, lesbian woman growing up in 1950s Harlem. The narrative explores her early life, including her relationship with her immigrant parents, her sexual awakening, and her struggle to define her identity in a time of intense racial and homophobic prejudice. The protagonist's journey is marked by a series of women who shape her consciousness and her understanding of herself, leading her towards activism and writing.

  5. 5. Junky by William S. Burroughs

    This novel is a semi-autobiographical account of the author's life as a drug addict in the 1950s. The protagonist, living in New York City, becomes addicted to heroin and resorts to petty crime to support his habit. As he navigates the seedy underworld of drug addiction, he experiences the highs and lows of substance abuse, the desperate scramble for the next fix, and the constant threat of arrest. The book offers a stark, brutally honest portrayal of addiction and its effects on the human psyche.

  6. 6. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

    This book is a collection of humorous, autobiographical essays that explore the author's experiences and observations in his life. The first part of the book focuses on his upbringing in North Carolina, his Greek heritage, his relationship with his eccentric family, and his early jobs. The second part of the book details his move to Normandy, France, his struggle to learn the French language, and his observations of French culture. The author's self-deprecating humor and sharp wit provide a satirical view of his life's journey.

  7. 7. The Journalist and the Murderer by Janet Malcolm

    The book is a gripping exploration of the uneasy relationship between journalists and their subjects. It delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists when they become too involved with their subjects. The narrative centers around a lawsuit between a convicted murderer and the author who wrote about his case, revealing the blurred lines between objectivity and subjectivity in journalism. The book also raises questions about the morality and responsibility of the journalistic profession.

  8. 8. My Fight for Birth Control by Margaret Sanger

    This book is a passionate account of a nurse's tireless advocacy for women's reproductive rights in the early 20th century. The author recounts her journey from being a nurse witnessing the devastating effects of unwanted pregnancies and illegal abortions on women, to becoming a leading figure in the fight for birth control. The book details her struggles with the legal and religious establishments of the time, her establishment of the first birth control clinic in the United States, and her efforts to educate women about their reproductive rights and health.

  9. 9. The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt by Edmund Morris

    This biography explores the early life and career of Theodore Roosevelt, detailing his journey from a sickly child to a robust young man who embraced a range of interests from nature to politics. It chronicles his personal life, including the tragic death of his wife and mother on the same day, and his professional life, from his time as a New York assemblyman to his role in the Spanish-American war. The book concludes with Roosevelt's unexpected ascension to the presidency after the assassination of President McKinley.

  10. 10. Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin

    This book explores the political acumen of Abraham Lincoln, focusing on how he assembled his cabinet from political adversaries, many of whom initially dismissed him for his perceived lack of experience and ungainly appearance. The narrative delves into how Lincoln used his rivals' talents to navigate the tumultuous times of the Civil War, maintaining unity and leading the nation towards the abolition of slavery. It underscores Lincoln's extraordinary ability to turn rivals into allies, demonstrating his leadership and his profound impact on American history.

  11. 11. Shadow and ACT by Ralph Ellison

    This book is a collection of essays that explore the complexities of racial identity and the cultural and social issues surrounding it. The author delves into his own experiences as an African American man in the mid-20th century, offering a poignant commentary on the racial divide in America. He also discusses the role of literature and music, particularly jazz, in shaping identity and understanding. The book is a thoughtful examination of the intersection of individual identity and societal expectations.

  12. 12. Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain

    The book is an insider's account of the culinary world, revealing the harsh realities of restaurant kitchens. The author, a professional chef, shares his personal experiences, the good and the bad, in a brutally honest and witty manner. He provides an unvarnished look at the industry, from the chaotic kitchen environment and the high-pressure service, to the eccentric characters he has worked with. The book also includes his reflections on food culture, cooking techniques, and his own journey in the culinary field.

  13. 13. How the Other Half Lives by Jacob A. Riis

    The book is a detailed examination of the living conditions of the poor in New York City in the late 19th century. It provides a vivid and often shocking account of life in the slums, tenements and sweatshops of the city, based on the author's own investigative journalism. The book had a significant impact on public opinion and led to changes in housing laws and social policy.

  14. 14. Great Bridge by David McCullough

    This book is a detailed account of the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the most significant and iconic landmarks in New York City. It provides an in-depth look at the political, architectural, and personal challenges faced during its 14-year construction period in the late 19th century. The narrative also explores the lives of the Roebling family, who were the chief engineers and designers of the bridge, along with the societal changes and technological advancements of the era.

  15. 15. Diane Arbus: An Aperture Monograph by Marvin Israel, Doon Arbus

    This monograph is a seminal work in the field of photography, presenting a compelling collection of black-and-white images that capture the essence of the American social landscape during the 1950s and 1960s. The book showcases the photographer's groundbreaking approach to portraiture, which often focused on subjects from the fringes of society, including circus performers, transgender individuals, and people with unique physical attributes. Through her lens, the photographer sought to reveal the humanity and dignity of her subjects, challenging conventional notions of beauty and normality and leaving a lasting impact on the art of photography.

  16. 16. The Invention of Solitude by Paul Auster

    "The Invention of Solitude" is a deeply personal and introspective memoir split into two parts, where the author grapples with the concepts of identity, memory, and solitude. The first part focuses on the author's reflections and memories of his late father, while the second part delves into the author's own experience of fatherhood, his life, and his thoughts. The book explores themes of existentialism, the nature of writing, and the complex dynamics of parent-child relationships.

  17. 17. 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff

    This book is a charming collection of letters exchanged over two decades between a spirited New York writer and the staff of a quaint, antiquarian bookshop in London. Through their correspondence, which begins as a straightforward request for obscure classics and British literature, a deep and affectionate relationship blossoms, not only between the writer and the bookshop's employees but also involving their families and friends. Despite never meeting in person, the letters reveal a profound connection that transcends the Atlantic, bound by a shared love for books and the written word, offering a heartwarming testament to the enduring power of friendship.

  18. 18. The Sweet Science by A. J. Liebling

    "The Sweet Science" is a collection of essays that delves into the world of boxing during its golden age in the 1950s. The author offers a detailed analysis and vivid descriptions of famous fights and boxers of the era, such as Rocky Marciano and Sugar Ray Robinson, while also exploring the culture and mechanics of the sport. The book is not just a historical account, but also a philosophical and sociological examination of boxing, its practitioners, and its fans.

  19. 19. The Big Sea by Langston Hughes

    "The Big Sea" is an autobiography that explores the life of a significant figure in the Harlem Renaissance. The narrative follows his early life in the Midwest, his travels around the world as a seaman, and his experiences in New York during the 1920s, where he was a central figure in the Harlem Renaissance. Throughout the book, the author offers his observations on racism, class, and the creative process, providing a vivid and insightful portrait of a complex era in American history.

  20. 20. The Battle with the Slum by Jacob A. Riis

    "The Battle with the Slum" is a historical documentation of the living conditions in the slums of New York City during the late 19th and early 20th century. The author, a social reformer and journalist, provides a detailed account of the overcrowded and unsanitary conditions that the city's poor were subjected to. The book also highlights the efforts of the government and philanthropists to improve these conditions and eradicate the slums, emphasizing the importance of housing reform and social welfare in urban development.

  21. 21. The Autobiography of Lincoln Steffens by Lincoln Steffens

    This autobiography is a detailed account of the life of a renowned investigative journalist during the early 20th century. The book explores his experiences and observations of political corruption in American cities, his coverage of the Russian Revolution, and his eventual disillusionment with American capitalism. It provides a unique perspective on major socio-political events of the era, while also offering insight into the author's personal beliefs and moral struggles.

  22. 22. The House on Henry Street by Lillian D. Wald

    "The House on Henry Street" is a memoir by a prominent social worker and public health advocate, detailing her experiences and work in the Lower East Side of New York City in the early 20th century. The book chronicles her establishment of a settlement house in the area, which provided a range of services including healthcare, education, and employment assistance to the community. The narrative offers a poignant insight into the struggles and resilience of the immigrant population during this period, and the author's pioneering role in public health nursing and social reform.

  23. 23. The 9/11 Commission Report by 9/11 Commission

    This book is a comprehensive, detailed account of the events leading up to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, the attacks themselves, and the immediate aftermath. It was compiled by a bipartisan commission and offers an in-depth analysis of the systemic failures that allowed these attacks to occur. The report also provides recommendations for preventing future terrorist attacks, emphasizing the need for improved intelligence and security measures.

  24. 24. Portrait Of An Artist: A Biography Of Georgia O'keeffe by Laurie Lisle

    This biography provides an in-depth look at the life and career of a pioneering American artist known for her distinctive paintings of flowers, skyscrapers, and southwestern landscapes. It delves into her personal journey, exploring her relationships, her struggles for artistic independence, and her role in the American modernist movement. The book paints a vivid picture of a fiercely independent and spirited woman who broke boundaries in both her art and her life, offering readers a comprehensive view of her creative evolution and the impact she had on the art world.

  25. 25. Looking at Dance by Edwin Denby

    "Looking at Dance" is an insightful exploration of the world of dance, offering a unique perspective on the art form through the eyes of a renowned critic. The book delves into the technical aspects, aesthetics, and the emotional impact of dance, providing a comprehensive understanding of various dance styles. It includes critical analysis of performances by iconic dancers and choreographers, offering readers a deeper appreciation and understanding of the art of dance.

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

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