I get it, New York can sometimes break your heart, or leave you feeling a little homesick for Australia. If you need a reminder of when you used to love the city more, I’ve compiled a list of fantastic books that will wrap you up in a big, juicy NYC hug.
Insomniac City: New York, Oliver Sacks and Me by Bill Hayes
This enchanting book is Hayes’s love letter to Oliver Sacks and New York City (and my favorite book to gift). Hayes is a sensitive observer who finds tenderness and human connection everywhere. Insomniac City is an easy read filled with vignettes of his experiences of love and loss and the vibrant characters he meets. An added bonus is his stunning photography, which is also included in the book.
Lost and Found: Stories from New York edited by Thomas Beller
This collection of essays and tales from the literary website Mr. Beller’s Neighborhood has an array of diverse and interesting characters, and stories from all over the city. From chance encounters on the subway to quiet moments of reflection in bustling cafes, this book captures the essence (and craziness) of New York City with warmth, humor, and poignancy.
Never Can Say Goodbye: Writers on Their Unshakable Love for New York edited by Sari Botton
This anthology delves into the city’s enduring allure through the experiences of contributors such as Elizabeth Gilbert, Whoopi Goldberg, and Rosanne Cash. Each essay unveils a deeply personal connection to the city, celebrating its energy, diversity, and endless possibilities, as well as the profound impact it has on their lives. This book is a perfect read for when the city has broken your heart, or if you need a little pick-me-up.
Just Kids by Patti Smith
Just Kids is an ode to New York City, and everyone drawn to its allure. Smith’s memoir chronicles the city during the vibrant cultural landscape of the late sixties and seventies. You’ll follow her as she navigates the bohemian artistic landscape and meets the community of artists and renegades living at the Chelsea Hotel (which is a character in itself). You’ll also delve deep into her incredible bond with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe as they rise to fame.
Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
This YA book is perfect for anyone wanting to reignite their love for NYC. It’s a sweet tale of Nick and Norah, two teenagers who meet in New York City and embark on a whirlwind adventure. Over the course of one night, they navigate the city’s indie music scene, confront their own insecurities, and ultimately discover a deep connection with each other. Filled with humor, romance, and the power of music, this book is a love letter to the city, the magic of youth and the transformative power of unexpected encounters.
The Colossus of New York by Colson Whitehead
Whitehead’s tribute to New York City explores its complexity and allure through a series of interconnected essays. He delves into the city’s history, neighborhoods, and residents, capturing its essence with poetic prose. It’s a compelling portrait of life as he moves from examining the city’s transformation after an unexpected rain shower to thoughts of longtime residents and newcomers who dream of making it their home.
Your Table Is Ready: Tales of a New York City Maître D’ by Michael Cecchi-Azzolina
This is a behind-the-scenes look at the bustling (and stressful) restaurant world. Cecchi-Azzolina’s time as a maître d’ in high-end New York City restaurants during the 80s and 90s is filled with wit, insight, and captivating tales. With over thirty-five years of experience, his book provides a unique perspective on the city’s dining culture and the wealth of colorful characters he has met (and maybe a mobster or two).
Names of New York: Discovering the City’s Past, Present, and Future Through its Place-Names by Joshua Jelly-Schapiro
Delve into the rich tapestry of New York City’s history, culture, and identity through its diverse array of place names. From iconic landmarks to parks, boroughs, and hidden corners, Jelly-Schapiro uncovers the stories behind the names, offering a fascinating journey through the city’s past, present, and future. A must-read for history buffs!
Modern Love: True Stories of Love, Loss, and Redemption edited by Daniel Jones
This is a poignant collection of personal essays from The New York Times column of the same name. These heartfelt narratives, many of which are set in the city, by authors such as Dev Patel, Tina Fey and John Slattery, explore the complexities of modern relationships, offering insights into love’s joys and challenges and ultimately celebrating the resilience of the human heart.
New Yorkers: A City and Its People in Our Time by Craig Taylor
Through interviews and observations with people from all walks of life (think: bodega cashiers, emergency dispatchers, Rockefeller Center window cleaners and a balloon handler in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade), Taylor captures the essence of the city’s spirit, highlighting its resilience, diversity, and complexity while providing a compelling portrait of its inhabitants and their interconnected lives.
Did we miss your fave book about NYC? Let us know in the comments.
AWNY | Australian Women in New York 