Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, Wertz (Museum of Mistakes) spent ten years in New York City before returning to her West Coast roots. Here, the author/illustrator shows a side of the Big Apple usually reserved for native New Yorkers in vignettes describing everyday life in the five boroughs, then and now, accentuated by beautiful drawings that seem to capture the spirit of each place. The history offers a rare glimpse of how things have changed over time, as Wertz pictures the same locations years apart, making it easy for readers to feel as though they've lived there, too. Pages dedicated to the art deco and gothic doors found throughout Manhattan are particularly fascinating. More than reflecting the likeness of Gotham, the combined text and art seem to absorb its very essence. With a list of recommended reading and online sources.Verdict For anyone who enjoys graphic nonfiction and biography and especially for those interested in New York City's various buildings and types of architecture. [Previewed in Douglas Rednour's "Comics Cross Over," LJ 6/15/17.]—Sonnet Ireland, St. Tammany Parish P.L., Mandeville, LA
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?