Portlandness: A Cultural Atlas (Urban Infographic Atlases)

I suspect nearly anyone who's ever lived in Portland and has a curious mind will delight in this book. It documents the most absurd things, from house color by neighborhood to noise level in Providence Park by minute in a Timbers game. It is utterly and completely Portland, except that it lacks a sense of humor. (We actually had a debate about whether this was appropriately called a 'Cultural Atlas', or if it should have been a 'Cultural Encyclopedia'. Either way, it'll help you find the neighborhood with the highest density of brewpubs.)Would it appeal to someone with no connection to Portland? Probably not. Even infographic addicts might be disappointed, as the infographics, though plentiful, play second fiddle to a great deal of explanatory text.

I've lived in Oregon my whole life, and am pretty familiar with Portland. Even so, this book is great! It's full of fun facts, the maps are gorgeous, and everyone who visits me just can't help but take a look. It's not necessary to read cover to cover, it's enjoyable to just pick up and randomly open to any section. In my opinion, if you are new to Portland, or if you just love the city, this is a great addition for your bookcase or coffee table.

Excellent book for the coffee table with some illuminating geographic work. Such a great primer as I make my return back home! (One of my friends also helped the cartography of this book, so very excited to finally get a copy!)

***Full Disclosure: I worked on the book. :) ***Whether you live in, or even know Portland, this book is worth the modest price (between $18 and $25--for a hardback!).I was lucky enough to be involved in this project, so I have seen it evolve along much of its trajectory. The energy and love that's been invested into each subject still takes my breath away every time I open the book.This is NOT meant to be a travel atlas (although, if you want ideas for exploring Portland, Oregon, this might be EXACTLY what you are looking for).Every few pages is a new take on either the entire city, or on some region or neighborhood. The perspectives offered are some engaging and thought-provoking combination of research, analysis, and cartographic/artistic representation.Also, if you are a map-lover, this book is a MUST for your collection.

What a great overall picture of Portland. If you're thinking about moving there you should buy this book!

This book is PACKED full of interesting maps, facts, history, images, and impressions of Portland past and present. Every page has multiple maps and/or images to pour over. The book is beautifully bound and sturdy, the colors and cover are very attractive.

I bought this as a gift. So much fun! There are so many cool and different maps and charts about Portland, and the recipient really liked it!

Very fun imagery, well made. Less informative to tourists and more of a book of stats, but doesn’t detract from the book itself, just search elsewhere for essential spots to visit.

虚実おりまぜた「全米一すみたい街」を、さまざまな切り口の地図と文書で紹介した本です。おばけからティンバーズまで、おされカフェじゃあなくて、全米にあふれるチェーンレストランと、ストリップ劇場ものってます。街への愛情と批評にあふれ、かつ、メディア的「おしゃれ」じゃあない、頓知の効いたおしゃれ感が満載。こんな本が出てくるのが、ロンドンでもニューヨークでもなく、オレゴン州ポートランドなんですね。