Forgotten New York: Views of a Lost Metropolis

I had gotten the impression from a few of the earlier reviewers that this book was going to be disappointing; a pale shadow of the extensive website that Mr. Walsh has maintained for some years. But when I received my copy I got a pleasant surprise: "Forgotten New York: Views of a Lost Metropolis" is not a coffee-table version of the website (at which I am a sometime and appreciative visitor); rather it is a way to get up from your coffee table, get out the door and actually SEE the wonders that Kevin has found for us.I would compare and contrast this book with another invaluable work, White & Willensky's AIA (American Institute of Architects) Guide to New York City, which revolutionized the appreciation of New York structures (and boosted historic preservation at the same time). The AIA guide shows us buildings of architectural significance, briefly details their history and tells us how to get to them to see for ourselves. By contrast, Forgotten New York tells us how to find all the OTHER interesting little details of New York City's past that are right under our noses.I sympathize with those who wish this book went into more depth in its individual subjects; I hope that books to come may detail this or that neighborhood or topic, but the logic of this guidebook (for that's what it is) is compelling: if I want to find out what Brooklyn, say, was like in the 1930s, I can curl up with a book and read the text and enjoy the pictures, for I have no other choice except for a Time Machine BUT if I want to SEE (and touch, and photograph) survivals of Brooklyn FROM the 1930s, this book "takes me by the hand" and leads me to go and see them for myself.

I liked this book alot gives you a picture of old NY. Great pictures and stories about sights that can still be seen in the city. And pictures of sights long gone.

This book is not for the out-of-towner planning a weekend, or even a week-long trip. New York is too big, and there are so many 'mandatory' things you should see. But this is definitely a book that should turn many a New Yorker into a weekend tourist.The problem with living in New York is that life is permanently set to warp-speed. The present and the very near future are all anyone can think of, and that other great foundation of New York (in addition to its literal bedrock)--its history--is often forgotten. This is a shame, as what the city has been to the many people who have come to it to realize their dreams is a great part of the place's magic. Kevin Walsh has done a terrific job of documenting the surviving islands of that history that the city was simply too busy (or forgot) to tear down.New Yorkers: buy this book, clear your calendar, and take a couple of days, or even an afternoon, discovering the city that you've never really noticed. You'll never think of New York the same way.

Even though I lived a large portion of my life in New York, I did not know the interesting historical stories behind the many buildings and places discussed in this book. I bought the book out of curiosity and when I received it I immediately went to the section about Brooklyn, which is where I grew up. It's fascinating reading and I'm anxious to now read about Manhattan, where I worked for many years. I recommend this book highly. It's well written and very interesting.

Forgotten New York is one of the best books in my collection of material on New York City. Kevin Walsh and his supporting friends have done a wonerful job of making it very easy to learn about NYC's near and distant past by showing, mapping and explaining points of unusual interest in all 5 boros. It is very easy to read and does all it can to encourage getting out there to experiance NYC. I'm using it as a resource tool for future tours around NYC. Be sure to check out his website [...]

I've lived in the Big Apple a couple times, but never had the time (or knowledge) to search for the hidden gems that are detailed in this book. Whether or not you actually go see them in person, they're fascinating to learn about. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in New York City specifically, or urban history in general. You won't be disappointed!

I didn't know that when I ordered this book it was a print on demand .I had the original but due to water in the basement from the water heater I lost the first printing. So now I know better to read what else is on the page of this book description . This copy is very poor quality

Great comprehensive review of historical landmarks within each of the five boroughs. Purchased one for myself and one for a friend.

Das Buch ist klasse! Es ist sehr gut organisiert, mit Karten und eindeutigen Erklärungen um die versteckten Schätzen zu finden. Liebevoll und mit feinem Humor geschrieben, wir fanden es einen perfekten Begleiter für unsere Reise nach NY, auch wenn das Format nur in größere Taschen passt. Geocacher (wie ich) werden das Buch lieben.