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Through a Dusty Window: New York City Stories 1910-2001
One New York City brownstone.
Ten lives.
One hundred years.
Join author Delancey Stewart on a voyeuristic journey through ten short stories spanning a century of lives inhabiting one New York City brownstone on the Upper West Side.
This journey is the culmination of Stewart's experience in New York City, when she wondered constantly who had occupied her apartment before her, and what stories might have been lived between its walls.
Ten lives.
One hundred years.
Join author Delancey Stewart on a voyeuristic journey through ten short stories spanning a century of lives inhabiting one New York City brownstone on the Upper West Side.
This journey is the culmination of Stewart's experience in New York City, when she wondered constantly who had occupied her apartment before her, and what stories might have been lived between its walls.
94 pages, Paperback
First published November 15, 2012
2 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Delancey Stewart
100 books878 followersI'm USA Today Bestselling author Delancey Stewart. My contemporary romances run the gamut of settings and setups, but they always deliver humor, heart and heat. It's a guarantee.
I write from my home in Denver, CO, where I manage a household full of boys and men. Okay, only one man. The hubs. But two boys. I mean, three if you count the hubs. (You see why I do words and not numbers. I was told there'd be no math in this bio. Someone lied.)
I grew up in California and have had more jobs than anyone on earth (personal trainer, pharmaceutical rep, copywriter, tech writer, marketing director, wine seller, elementary school teacher... I'm not kidding. The list. It goes on.) But the one I love the most is writing, in part because I get to meet people who love books and stories as much as I do! Please don't hesitate to get in touch to say hello, and don't forget to join my newsletter!
Get a free story from me by joining my weekly email here: https://www.subscribepage.com/delance...
Find me at www.delanceystewart.com
Facebook: www.facebook/DelanceyWrites.com
I write from my home in Denver, CO, where I manage a household full of boys and men. Okay, only one man. The hubs. But two boys. I mean, three if you count the hubs. (You see why I do words and not numbers. I was told there'd be no math in this bio. Someone lied.)
I grew up in California and have had more jobs than anyone on earth (personal trainer, pharmaceutical rep, copywriter, tech writer, marketing director, wine seller, elementary school teacher... I'm not kidding. The list. It goes on.) But the one I love the most is writing, in part because I get to meet people who love books and stories as much as I do! Please don't hesitate to get in touch to say hello, and don't forget to join my newsletter!
Get a free story from me by joining my weekly email here: https://www.subscribepage.com/delance...
Find me at www.delanceystewart.com
Facebook: www.facebook/DelanceyWrites.com
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 5, 2013
"Through a Dusty Window" is a short story collection set through various decades in one New York City apartment. It is definitely a fascinating idea for a set of stories. My house was built over 100 years ago and my husband and I have had several conversations about who might have lived in our house before us. You wonder what they were like and what the town was like at the time that they lived here. I really wish that we had a better history of our house but I digress... I really loved the premise behind this book.
All of the stories in this book are in chronological order. Being a historical fiction lover, I really liked the stories towards the beginning of the book. The one that takes place in 1910 (which has to do with the different classes of people of the day) and the one that takes place in the 1940s (which has to do with World War II). The 1990s story was the only one that I really did not care for. It's very different than the other stories and has to do with some of the excesses in life. It just didn't resonate with me very much.
Each story is unique and has a new set of characters. Although these are short stories, this book is chock full of memorable characters. Stewart knows how to make you fall for the characters quickly!
Bottom line: If you are looking for a short story collection with interesting characters, this book is for you!
All of the stories in this book are in chronological order. Being a historical fiction lover, I really liked the stories towards the beginning of the book. The one that takes place in 1910 (which has to do with the different classes of people of the day) and the one that takes place in the 1940s (which has to do with World War II). The 1990s story was the only one that I really did not care for. It's very different than the other stories and has to do with some of the excesses in life. It just didn't resonate with me very much.
Each story is unique and has a new set of characters. Although these are short stories, this book is chock full of memorable characters. Stewart knows how to make you fall for the characters quickly!
Bottom line: If you are looking for a short story collection with interesting characters, this book is for you!
February 22, 2013
This book had a rather familiar feel to it. The setting is a brownstone in New York. The same building features in this collection of fictional stories, each story set 10 years apart and tells a fictional account of the inhabitants of the building.
The catalyst for the stories was the author's former residence and the contemplation of the lives of those who may have lived in the building, what their lives was like and the sort of people they were.
The stories were good and with each turn of the page I wondered if any of the story line had a glimpse of reality in relation to the characters. Specific historical events give the characters perspective and dimention. The genealogist in me hoped that there was, and if not it is perhaps a project for the future.
Well, I asked the author and tomorrow you can read the guest post and her answer to that question, amongst others. You can read that interview at http://anglersrest.blogspot.co.uk/201...
The catalyst for the stories was the author's former residence and the contemplation of the lives of those who may have lived in the building, what their lives was like and the sort of people they were.
The stories were good and with each turn of the page I wondered if any of the story line had a glimpse of reality in relation to the characters. Specific historical events give the characters perspective and dimention. The genealogist in me hoped that there was, and if not it is perhaps a project for the future.
Well, I asked the author and tomorrow you can read the guest post and her answer to that question, amongst others. You can read that interview at http://anglersrest.blogspot.co.uk/201...
February 23, 2013
I enjoyed this collection of short stories. Each story fitting nicely in a different era between 1910 and 2001, I felt as though I was a tenant in an old brownstone in the city. Some of the events are purely fictional, while others relate to a historical event. I read this on an e-reader on my phone, and I will buy the paperback to keep in my collection.
May 6, 2013
High quality writing. Intelligent concept. Some emotional stories. Enjoyable.
December 1, 2013
Very short stories that span a century seen from the eyes of the various people that live in a NY brownstone.
December 25, 2012
I met this author via a critique group that we're part of and I was intrigued by it because she sent some of the stories to the group for critique. I was happy when she released it, so that I could read the rest of them and know the "whole" story.
First off, I can see how this would not be a book for everyone. Namely, because not a lot "happens" in the book. They are short stories that are slice of life vignettes, offering small windows (literally and figuratively) into the lives of ten people who all lived in the same apartment during different decades. Not everyone is down for slice of life stories, but if you are, I think you'll enjoy this book.
Secondly, though, I'm glad I never lived in this apartment! It's cursed! ...but seriously, a lot of the things that happen have negative overtones or are sad, I will warn you about that. But they're all good and it's really interesting to think about what it would be like at all these different points in history, in a city like NYC.
I personally have never been a NYC kind of girl, but I can see the appeal in this kind of story telling. It is a very vibrant, active city.
For the individual stories themselves, I liked 1910 because of the immigration angle. NYC was a city built on immigrants, after all, so this versus the "native" view was intriguing. (I went back to "Gangs of New York," but this wasn't so bloody, of course.)
And the story from 1925 had me hearing Richard Gere's character in "Chicago" snapping in my head, saying "That's Chicago." ...even if it was NYC. I was just glad that Tony didn't end up like Fortunato. (A cookie to anyone who knows the reference.)
I found something wanting in 1936, although I'm having trouble putting my finger on what it was. This one stood out as not at good as the rest. 1943 and 1953 were good, though sad. 1962 was a little less engaging, though more so than 1936, and the ending had me chuckling and saying, "Men are always men." And I liked the armoire bit that started and went on from here.
1977 I found to be quite atmospheric, and 1980 was a very interesting take on the stories in the form of a letter rather than a narrative, although a story was told in that letter, and it was realistic for what some people think and feel about certain celebrities. I found 1998 filled with unlikeable people, but did have a "feel" to it.
2001 rounded things off very well, touching on the most defining event in the city's history in a long time, and from a good angle. I liked how it came "full circle" to the other stories.
Because it didn't have a real "plot" to it, it's not the sort of story that will grab me and make me go, "BEST BOOK EVER!" But I did find it very engaging and I liked the angle. It was also a read with a good flow, so I got through it pretty quick. And sometimes books like that are good to pick up. So, this is a solid 4.
First off, I can see how this would not be a book for everyone. Namely, because not a lot "happens" in the book. They are short stories that are slice of life vignettes, offering small windows (literally and figuratively) into the lives of ten people who all lived in the same apartment during different decades. Not everyone is down for slice of life stories, but if you are, I think you'll enjoy this book.
Secondly, though, I'm glad I never lived in this apartment! It's cursed! ...but seriously, a lot of the things that happen have negative overtones or are sad, I will warn you about that. But they're all good and it's really interesting to think about what it would be like at all these different points in history, in a city like NYC.
I personally have never been a NYC kind of girl, but I can see the appeal in this kind of story telling. It is a very vibrant, active city.
For the individual stories themselves, I liked 1910 because of the immigration angle. NYC was a city built on immigrants, after all, so this versus the "native" view was intriguing. (I went back to "Gangs of New York," but this wasn't so bloody, of course.)
And the story from 1925 had me hearing Richard Gere's character in "Chicago" snapping in my head, saying "That's Chicago." ...even if it was NYC. I was just glad that Tony didn't end up like Fortunato. (A cookie to anyone who knows the reference.)
I found something wanting in 1936, although I'm having trouble putting my finger on what it was. This one stood out as not at good as the rest. 1943 and 1953 were good, though sad. 1962 was a little less engaging, though more so than 1936, and the ending had me chuckling and saying, "Men are always men." And I liked the armoire bit that started and went on from here.
1977 I found to be quite atmospheric, and 1980 was a very interesting take on the stories in the form of a letter rather than a narrative, although a story was told in that letter, and it was realistic for what some people think and feel about certain celebrities. I found 1998 filled with unlikeable people, but did have a "feel" to it.
2001 rounded things off very well, touching on the most defining event in the city's history in a long time, and from a good angle. I liked how it came "full circle" to the other stories.
Because it didn't have a real "plot" to it, it's not the sort of story that will grab me and make me go, "BEST BOOK EVER!" But I did find it very engaging and I liked the angle. It was also a read with a good flow, so I got through it pretty quick. And sometimes books like that are good to pick up. So, this is a solid 4.
August 10, 2016
Through a Dusty Window: New York City Stories 1910-2001 by Delancey Stewart is a collection of ten short stories that center around a New York City brownstone on 77 Street and the people who lived there over the years, as well as the events that were occurring around them at that time in history. I don’t think I’ve ever come across any historical fiction that is portrayed through short stories so that alone makes this little gem unique but so do the stories that touch on Prohibition to World War II; the Vietnam-era Summer of Sam killings to John Lennon’s murder. I really love older historic homes or apartment buildings and all the history that must exist within their walls and I often find myself wondering about the lives that went before my own and what they may have endured or rejoiced in.
Each story draws you in, painting a vivid picture of time and place, and while you only spend a short time with the folks living in this apartment you still feel as though you’ve gotten to know them. The author ties all the stories together with little pieces that appear within each story as well as the first and last story really bringing the life of this old brownstone full circle. This was a short book, very easily read in one sitting, and one I really enjoyed. As with all short story collections I always have my favorites and this one was no different although all the stories were good. I’ll only share a few points from a couple of my favorites as I wouldn’t want to spoil the book for those of you who will read it. The first story I really liked was The Hidden Legacy taking place in 1910 which had a little girl refusing to give up the hiding place of a doll she took. The next was called Telegram and it took place in 1943 during World War II and features a young woman whose husband is fighting in the war and she simply can’t work up the desire to do anything while worrying about him. My last favorite was The Harbinger, taking place in 1953. This one features a young couple with the wife Hazel experiencing some emotional problems. The interesting thing about this one was how the issues of mental health were tackled at that point in history.
Through a Dusty Window is a short collection and if you’re fond of short stories this one is sure to be a winner and even if you aren’t it’s a nice break from reading a full length novel and the stories really are good. I really enjoyed this little peek into the past and the lives of the people who lived in this New York brownstone. I would most certainly read more from Delancey Stewart in the future!
Each story draws you in, painting a vivid picture of time and place, and while you only spend a short time with the folks living in this apartment you still feel as though you’ve gotten to know them. The author ties all the stories together with little pieces that appear within each story as well as the first and last story really bringing the life of this old brownstone full circle. This was a short book, very easily read in one sitting, and one I really enjoyed. As with all short story collections I always have my favorites and this one was no different although all the stories were good. I’ll only share a few points from a couple of my favorites as I wouldn’t want to spoil the book for those of you who will read it. The first story I really liked was The Hidden Legacy taking place in 1910 which had a little girl refusing to give up the hiding place of a doll she took. The next was called Telegram and it took place in 1943 during World War II and features a young woman whose husband is fighting in the war and she simply can’t work up the desire to do anything while worrying about him. My last favorite was The Harbinger, taking place in 1953. This one features a young couple with the wife Hazel experiencing some emotional problems. The interesting thing about this one was how the issues of mental health were tackled at that point in history.
Through a Dusty Window is a short collection and if you’re fond of short stories this one is sure to be a winner and even if you aren’t it’s a nice break from reading a full length novel and the stories really are good. I really enjoyed this little peek into the past and the lives of the people who lived in this New York brownstone. I would most certainly read more from Delancey Stewart in the future!
December 27, 2013
I have read collections of short stories before, however I haven’t thought of them as works of historical fiction. Through A Dusty Window gives the reader a quick glimpse into the life occurring in a brownstone in New York City throughout the decades. In those short pages you get a distinct feel for the period through dress, attitudes, and/or events. It was interesting to see decades covered that are not within the typical purview of historical fiction – such as the 80’s, 90’s, and 2000’s – because even though I lived through some of these events I don’t know much about them as I was very young.
I was very happy that the stories came full circle in the end and that the stories all were tied together. That was what I was hoping for when picking up this book – for this history of a house, you need something to tie the different families that lived there together in some small way. While these stories were just snippets of the lives that went on in the brownstone, it felt like they could have been developed into full stories in their own ways.
I especially liked the concept for this set of short stories. I have never lived in a house that had any sort of history or had really been around all that long – but I have always found myself wondering about those historic homes in my town that have modern day families living in them. You know that those homes have “seen” a lot go on around them as well as within their walls. So while these stories were about the people living in the house, they were also about the house itself.
I read this collection in one short sitting – not only because it is short in length but I really enjoyed all of the stories and wanted to see which events were covered in each decade and how it resolved.
This review was previously posted @ The Maiden's Court. Was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I was very happy that the stories came full circle in the end and that the stories all were tied together. That was what I was hoping for when picking up this book – for this history of a house, you need something to tie the different families that lived there together in some small way. While these stories were just snippets of the lives that went on in the brownstone, it felt like they could have been developed into full stories in their own ways.
I especially liked the concept for this set of short stories. I have never lived in a house that had any sort of history or had really been around all that long – but I have always found myself wondering about those historic homes in my town that have modern day families living in them. You know that those homes have “seen” a lot go on around them as well as within their walls. So while these stories were about the people living in the house, they were also about the house itself.
I read this collection in one short sitting – not only because it is short in length but I really enjoyed all of the stories and wanted to see which events were covered in each decade and how it resolved.
This review was previously posted @ The Maiden's Court. Was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2013
Through a Dusty Window is one of the beest short story collections I have ever read. It has such an interesting premise: What were the lives like for the people that lived in the same apartment? I've always wondered what it was like for people who lived in my apartment before me.
Each story can stand alone. All of them were emotion packed and completely enthralling. I loved the way history was weaved into each short story. It's hard to set an atmosphere, fill in back story, and all of that in a short story without letting the plot and action get lost in the translation. That wasn't a problem at all in these stories.
It was interesting how the voice could change from each story, a sign of a very good writer. I loved this book.
Each story can stand alone. All of them were emotion packed and completely enthralling. I loved the way history was weaved into each short story. It's hard to set an atmosphere, fill in back story, and all of that in a short story without letting the plot and action get lost in the translation. That wasn't a problem at all in these stories.
It was interesting how the voice could change from each story, a sign of a very good writer. I loved this book.
July 11, 2013
I usually don't read short stories, but I enjoyed 9 out of the 10 here. However, I was anticipating that the house would play a much larger role in the stories. With just 1 exception, the only role the house plays is that over the years you see it going from a large single family home, to apartments, to studios.
October 30, 2015
NYC Stories
This collection of stories tells the story of New York City through the characters who make the city their home. The stories go from witty to tragic and every emotion in between.
This collection of stories tells the story of New York City through the characters who make the city their home. The stories go from witty to tragic and every emotion in between.
April 29, 2013
Not what I was expecting.
December 27, 2014
Great book! Loved that it showed the history of a home and all of the lives that lived in it.
April 28, 2017
I really enjoyed this collection of 10 short stories. The writing is descriptive and full of emotion, easily transporting me to the sights and sounds of the different eras in which the stories are told. Each story has its own set of unique characters, and it didn't take me very long to get swept up in their stories. In some instances, I wanted their stories to continue. There are even some well known historical events weaved through a few of the stories. Each story is very different which I liked. A great read.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews