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Only in New York #1
Only in New York. 36 true Big Apple stories spanning 55 years and five boroughs
REAL STORIES THAT CELEBRATE NEW YORK'S UNIQUE DNA.
Among these 36 unforgettable short stories, you will learn how to buy fireworks in the back alleys of Chinatown from Yong Wo, how the author met Mafia boss, John Gotti, enjoying a 2" prime steak at his favorite restaurant before he had his guest whacked.
Read about how Rosie, a sassy Puerto Rican waitress, served greasy bologna omelets to two filthy-rich garment salesmen haggling over bolts of fabric and hear Bennett, a retired judge, reminisce about his wife on Pippen Court, a 200-year old patch of Federalist Houses, now surrounded by midtown skyscrapers.
These are powerful stories of a Manhattan that is almost gone. If you want to really know New York, you should really read this book.
Among these 36 unforgettable short stories, you will learn how to buy fireworks in the back alleys of Chinatown from Yong Wo, how the author met Mafia boss, John Gotti, enjoying a 2" prime steak at his favorite restaurant before he had his guest whacked.
Read about how Rosie, a sassy Puerto Rican waitress, served greasy bologna omelets to two filthy-rich garment salesmen haggling over bolts of fabric and hear Bennett, a retired judge, reminisce about his wife on Pippen Court, a 200-year old patch of Federalist Houses, now surrounded by midtown skyscrapers.
These are powerful stories of a Manhattan that is almost gone. If you want to really know New York, you should really read this book.
- GenresNew YorkShort Stories
208 pages, Hardcover
Published January 12, 2019
21 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
M.G. Crisci
24 books20 followersM. G. Crisci
Stories that entertain. People you’ll remember. Literature that matters.
Manhattan-born M.G. Crisci is the critically-acclaimed author of 16 books inspired by real events, a former Fortune 500 senior executive, an internationally-recognized brand-building expert, a thought-provoking East-West social commentator, and an award-winning journalist.
M.G. has been elected to Who’s Who in the World 23 times for his business, literary, and cultural contributions, and received several lifetime achievement awards.
mgcrisci.com
Youtube.com/worldofmgcrisci
twitter.com/worldofmgcrisci
https://amz.run/3KXS
Stories that entertain. People you’ll remember. Literature that matters.
Manhattan-born M.G. Crisci is the critically-acclaimed author of 16 books inspired by real events, a former Fortune 500 senior executive, an internationally-recognized brand-building expert, a thought-provoking East-West social commentator, and an award-winning journalist.
M.G. has been elected to Who’s Who in the World 23 times for his business, literary, and cultural contributions, and received several lifetime achievement awards.
mgcrisci.com
Youtube.com/worldofmgcrisci
twitter.com/worldofmgcrisci
https://amz.run/3KXS
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 17, 2019
A lovely read which is rich on what makes New York a special place. Full of places tourists don’t necessary happen upon it is the local’s insight into their special home.
Matt Crisci had a hard upbringing but surrounded by love and an extended family. He seems to have a ear for conversation, the memory of a stand up comedian and the skills of a communicator.
This is a unique approach to a life story; an autobiography not as a diarist but as collection of stories that encompass and reflect his time as a New Yorker.
He shares his life across the years and in a chronological journey through memorable stories, that in the telling, feel like events from a movie. Although clearly successful at times he is generous in his acknowledgement of the input of others. He has clearly remained close to his roots and his family has played a key factor in his life. So although mostly reflecting his antics there is room for others even where they take star billing and his stories are well told.
There is a danger the reader would tire quickly if it was a collection of I’s and verbs telling what he had achieved. With Matt’s stories this is impossible as they are all inclusive. Often told at his expense and with life lessons shared rather than look how clever I am doing.
This collection demands to be read. It makes the American dream seem realistic and a humble reality based on hard work and the generosity of time.
Matt becomes a friend along the way; as a guy you’ve met and would be pleased to meet again. His writing is expansive and insightful, free from ranker and bitterness, just positive and humour-ladened stories. Those who he observes are depicted in a three dimensional form; real people who lift from the page and in Matt’s non-judgemental recollections bring colour and vibrancy to the New York environment.
I loved the taxi journey, his relationship with a GP undertaking his annual Check-up and all accounts with his wife. Matt is a person the people in these stories were affected by and they remembered him as much as he has remembered these situations.
It is a lovely recollection of one’s life and I feel enriched for the author sharing it in a book.
Matt Crisci had a hard upbringing but surrounded by love and an extended family. He seems to have a ear for conversation, the memory of a stand up comedian and the skills of a communicator.
This is a unique approach to a life story; an autobiography not as a diarist but as collection of stories that encompass and reflect his time as a New Yorker.
He shares his life across the years and in a chronological journey through memorable stories, that in the telling, feel like events from a movie. Although clearly successful at times he is generous in his acknowledgement of the input of others. He has clearly remained close to his roots and his family has played a key factor in his life. So although mostly reflecting his antics there is room for others even where they take star billing and his stories are well told.
There is a danger the reader would tire quickly if it was a collection of I’s and verbs telling what he had achieved. With Matt’s stories this is impossible as they are all inclusive. Often told at his expense and with life lessons shared rather than look how clever I am doing.
This collection demands to be read. It makes the American dream seem realistic and a humble reality based on hard work and the generosity of time.
Matt becomes a friend along the way; as a guy you’ve met and would be pleased to meet again. His writing is expansive and insightful, free from ranker and bitterness, just positive and humour-ladened stories. Those who he observes are depicted in a three dimensional form; real people who lift from the page and in Matt’s non-judgemental recollections bring colour and vibrancy to the New York environment.
I loved the taxi journey, his relationship with a GP undertaking his annual Check-up and all accounts with his wife. Matt is a person the people in these stories were affected by and they remembered him as much as he has remembered these situations.
It is a lovely recollection of one’s life and I feel enriched for the author sharing it in a book.
March 23, 2019
2.75⭐️
I thought that given the title there would be more unique and extravagant stories. Only in new york i think crazy and weird things but this was just a story of his life and it was pretty mundane. The writing was fine but i wanted more wild adventures and stories.
But i did like how he went through such a wide span of time seeing how New York changed.
Thank you so much to evookit via netgalley for sending me an ARC copy of only in new york by M. G. Crisci.
All opinions are my own
I thought that given the title there would be more unique and extravagant stories. Only in new york i think crazy and weird things but this was just a story of his life and it was pretty mundane. The writing was fine but i wanted more wild adventures and stories.
But i did like how he went through such a wide span of time seeing how New York changed.
Thank you so much to evookit via netgalley for sending me an ARC copy of only in new york by M. G. Crisci.
All opinions are my own
April 18, 2019
I love the stories in the book because they are short and easy to finish. This is a great read for anyone who loves short and funny stories. I love how M. G. Crisci portrayed himself in the book. He made life seem sweet and uncomplicated. Him adding the dates made me wish to travel back in time. Everyone should read this book.
February 27, 2019
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Summary:
A series of 36 short reminiscences, covering about 55 years of MG Crisci’s life in the Big Apple, New York. It is his love story to one of the greatest cities on earth.
Main Characters:
M G Crisci: He is the narrator, and we see a New York that probably is gone forever, but which is/was definitely hidden from tourist eyes!
Plot:
The author intends to give a viewpoint of New York, but really it is an insight into his own lie, from a stereotypical Italian-American Thanksgiving dinner, with lots and lots (molto e molto) of food, innumerable courses, and a swarm of related humanity.
The first story sets the tone and pace of the rest of the book. By turns insightful, regretful, funny and mischievous, the life of a young, hungry original Mad Man (the author spent a large part of his career at Young & Rubicam, before defecting to make and lose millions on Wall Street) is laid out before us. From incredible expense accounts, to cheaper ways for two young execs to get their breakfast, and along the way we see the lengths he would go to keep a high-spending client, and the expensive suits that made up the all-so-important projected image.
Through the author’s reminisces, we visit high-end restaurants (he name-drops Sparks, where I have been a couple of times myself. I would totally recommend the place - it is one of the best steak-houses in the world - steaks are amazing, but you’d need to book!!), museums, and have an epic taxi journey. The author writes about the highs and lows, and frequently points to himself as the reason things did not work out as well as planned.
Throughout it all, however, there remains a strong sense of family, of the importance of working hard and never giving up, and all is leavened with humour and wit.
What I Liked:
- The author is giving us his warts-and-all life-story, and delivers with excellent humour and vibrant writing.
- The stories are excellently paced, and would withstand re-reading.
- The author captures the variety and energy of this great city, and his love for it shines through.
- Some nice anachronisms e.g. people on the train reading three newspapers on the way to work in Manhattan. It’s all so mobile now…
What I Didn’t Like:
- There are some outdated comments, especially in the earlier chapters, which could have been edited out. We all know that’s how it was back then, but this is a 2019 book, and should reflect that. There is no suggestion the author holds any of these views himself.
Overall:
This is a nice read, and I’d recommend it. The author comes across as a good guy, a tough new Yorker who has the backs of his friends, yet will always look out for his own. He readily admits he is not perfect, and confesses to some small-time crime when a penniless kid growing up in a hard neighbourhood.
The stories are necessarily short, but well-written, with an eye for local colour and an ear for conversation. His best stories, I think, are those where he makes random connections, which turn into friendships (e.g. the 89-year old Bennett).
Acknowledgements:
I received a free copy of this book from the author and NetGalley, in return for an honest and objective review.
Summary:
A series of 36 short reminiscences, covering about 55 years of MG Crisci’s life in the Big Apple, New York. It is his love story to one of the greatest cities on earth.
Main Characters:
M G Crisci: He is the narrator, and we see a New York that probably is gone forever, but which is/was definitely hidden from tourist eyes!
Plot:
The author intends to give a viewpoint of New York, but really it is an insight into his own lie, from a stereotypical Italian-American Thanksgiving dinner, with lots and lots (molto e molto) of food, innumerable courses, and a swarm of related humanity.
The first story sets the tone and pace of the rest of the book. By turns insightful, regretful, funny and mischievous, the life of a young, hungry original Mad Man (the author spent a large part of his career at Young & Rubicam, before defecting to make and lose millions on Wall Street) is laid out before us. From incredible expense accounts, to cheaper ways for two young execs to get their breakfast, and along the way we see the lengths he would go to keep a high-spending client, and the expensive suits that made up the all-so-important projected image.
Through the author’s reminisces, we visit high-end restaurants (he name-drops Sparks, where I have been a couple of times myself. I would totally recommend the place - it is one of the best steak-houses in the world - steaks are amazing, but you’d need to book!!), museums, and have an epic taxi journey. The author writes about the highs and lows, and frequently points to himself as the reason things did not work out as well as planned.
Throughout it all, however, there remains a strong sense of family, of the importance of working hard and never giving up, and all is leavened with humour and wit.
What I Liked:
- The author is giving us his warts-and-all life-story, and delivers with excellent humour and vibrant writing.
- The stories are excellently paced, and would withstand re-reading.
- The author captures the variety and energy of this great city, and his love for it shines through.
- Some nice anachronisms e.g. people on the train reading three newspapers on the way to work in Manhattan. It’s all so mobile now…
What I Didn’t Like:
- There are some outdated comments, especially in the earlier chapters, which could have been edited out. We all know that’s how it was back then, but this is a 2019 book, and should reflect that. There is no suggestion the author holds any of these views himself.
Overall:
This is a nice read, and I’d recommend it. The author comes across as a good guy, a tough new Yorker who has the backs of his friends, yet will always look out for his own. He readily admits he is not perfect, and confesses to some small-time crime when a penniless kid growing up in a hard neighbourhood.
The stories are necessarily short, but well-written, with an eye for local colour and an ear for conversation. His best stories, I think, are those where he makes random connections, which turn into friendships (e.g. the 89-year old Bennett).
Acknowledgements:
I received a free copy of this book from the author and NetGalley, in return for an honest and objective review.
May 15, 2019
M.G. Crisci writes delightful stories about his life in his book Only in New York: 36 True Big Apple Stories Spanning 55 Years and Five Boroughs. He makes it clear from the very beginning that he is a native New Yorker who loves the city very much. Within each story is a sense of sentimentality which include a some of the history of places are no longer in business and places that have given joy to millions of natives and visitors alike.
While reading his stories I laughed, learned new things and at times was humbled by the experiences he shared. As a storyteller, Crisci manages to write the way I imagine he speaks making the stories more engaging. The reader can almost hear a male voice telling a story in the midst of their reading. Three particular stories I enjoyed were: “Wedding Night at the Plaza”, “World-Famous Baloney Omelets”, and “Hey Everybody, I know Him”. While all of the stories were humorous and endearing, these were ones I found particularly enjoyable.
The author’s stories are not only about his experiences as a New Yorker, but also about his life as a businessman, as a husband, and a father. This book makes a great addition to coffee table books as the stories are short, easy to read and wonderful conversation starters. It would also make a nice gift to someone who has a fondness for anything New York.
While reading his stories I laughed, learned new things and at times was humbled by the experiences he shared. As a storyteller, Crisci manages to write the way I imagine he speaks making the stories more engaging. The reader can almost hear a male voice telling a story in the midst of their reading. Three particular stories I enjoyed were: “Wedding Night at the Plaza”, “World-Famous Baloney Omelets”, and “Hey Everybody, I know Him”. While all of the stories were humorous and endearing, these were ones I found particularly enjoyable.
The author’s stories are not only about his experiences as a New Yorker, but also about his life as a businessman, as a husband, and a father. This book makes a great addition to coffee table books as the stories are short, easy to read and wonderful conversation starters. It would also make a nice gift to someone who has a fondness for anything New York.
May 15, 2021
Only in New York, by M. G. Crisci, is a compilation of thirty-six short stories, chronologically ordered from 1952 to 2013. The location is essentially the “city that never sleeps” but includes other 5 boroughs, too. That is what these 36 stories have in common, because they are not about the same subject or topic; and that is what makes this book full of colours and different emotions.
I just simply loved the pictures and cartoons along this book; they make every single story more familiar to me. I am delighted by the way the author uses the language to tell events in the most amusing manner. Also, I could learn a lot about the Big Apple´s traditions, culture, and unique personality.
It is a face-paced book, so I would recommend it to young people because it is really entertaining and to grown-ups because there are many stories that can wake up some curious memories in them, I guess. The plot has a varied and rich content, there are stories related to restaurants, sports, clothes shops and Christmas which involve many kinds of people. Without any hesitation, I am giving this book five out five stars.
I just simply loved the pictures and cartoons along this book; they make every single story more familiar to me. I am delighted by the way the author uses the language to tell events in the most amusing manner. Also, I could learn a lot about the Big Apple´s traditions, culture, and unique personality.
It is a face-paced book, so I would recommend it to young people because it is really entertaining and to grown-ups because there are many stories that can wake up some curious memories in them, I guess. The plot has a varied and rich content, there are stories related to restaurants, sports, clothes shops and Christmas which involve many kinds of people. Without any hesitation, I am giving this book five out five stars.
July 5, 2019
*** I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review***
This was a refreshing, light and non stressful read. I enjoyed that aspect of the book tremendously. I took this book on a mini vacation and it was great to not feel anxiety.
The first story took me off guard at first - I was introduced to the term mulenyon. :| I'm sure that's just how things were then. Again it took me off guard and I was hoping that the stories weren't all going to be like the first. They weren't.
I think my favorite story was Chapter 14 - Leonard M.D. - Such a beautiful story. Filled with so much admiration, love, heartache and coincidence. I found myself saying awwwweeee quite a few times in this one.
I enjoyed reading all of the stories. It was a completely new perspective for me.
I will say that I felt like I was reading stories. Detached. Like a stranger watching through a privacy window. I didn't feel connected at all. Hard to describe. All in all I really enjoyed the read.
This was a refreshing, light and non stressful read. I enjoyed that aspect of the book tremendously. I took this book on a mini vacation and it was great to not feel anxiety.
The first story took me off guard at first - I was introduced to the term mulenyon. :| I'm sure that's just how things were then. Again it took me off guard and I was hoping that the stories weren't all going to be like the first. They weren't.
I think my favorite story was Chapter 14 - Leonard M.D. - Such a beautiful story. Filled with so much admiration, love, heartache and coincidence. I found myself saying awwwweeee quite a few times in this one.
I enjoyed reading all of the stories. It was a completely new perspective for me.
I will say that I felt like I was reading stories. Detached. Like a stranger watching through a privacy window. I didn't feel connected at all. Hard to describe. All in all I really enjoyed the read.
July 7, 2021
Superb Collection of NYC stories
This collection of NYC short stories by M.G. Crisci is a remarkable work of words. I've read Crisci's work before, and I did read the second volume of Only in New York first. I loved it so much, I asked Crisci to send me the first book so I could read it, enjoy it and then review it. I've read each story at least twice. Crisci has lived one heck of a life, and his stories from the city of New York, are real and written to perfection. I had the honor to have Crisci on the podcast that I co-host, The After Show with McKensie Stewart & Amy Shannon, and to hear Crisci read his own words, and that's the voice I hear when I've read this. I have to admit that I loved all of them, but one of my favorites, was "Coffee Near Carnegie." (I also love the sketches). I could read these stories over and over (and have). I look forward to reading more by this author. Only in New York: Real Stories that Celebrate New York's Unique DNA is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
This collection of NYC short stories by M.G. Crisci is a remarkable work of words. I've read Crisci's work before, and I did read the second volume of Only in New York first. I loved it so much, I asked Crisci to send me the first book so I could read it, enjoy it and then review it. I've read each story at least twice. Crisci has lived one heck of a life, and his stories from the city of New York, are real and written to perfection. I had the honor to have Crisci on the podcast that I co-host, The After Show with McKensie Stewart & Amy Shannon, and to hear Crisci read his own words, and that's the voice I hear when I've read this. I have to admit that I loved all of them, but one of my favorites, was "Coffee Near Carnegie." (I also love the sketches). I could read these stories over and over (and have). I look forward to reading more by this author. Only in New York: Real Stories that Celebrate New York's Unique DNA is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
January 21, 2019
M. G. Crisci was a successful businessman before becoming a successful author. Included in this book are mostly business and family/friend stories, plus quite a few slice-of-life New York City ones. (Think New York Times Metropolitan Diary stories, only longer.) Some were interesting, some amusing, some a bit confusing. I'm not sure why he started the book off with the one he did about a family Thanksgiving dinner in 1952. Was it suppose to be funny or serious or what? All and all, though, the book was a worthwhile read, and much more professionally done than so many of the self-published collections of recollections out there these days.
(Note: I received a free e-ARC of this book from NetGalley and the author or publisher.)
(Note: I received a free e-ARC of this book from NetGalley and the author or publisher.)
April 7, 2022
I really liked this book. ONLY IN NEW YORK by M.G. Crisci is the final volume in a 3-volume series of novels.
There's a particular time of the year when I'm always in a hurry. However, I didn't want to stop reading, I find my reading moments like an oasis in the middle of chaos. This book was perfect for this purpose. It consists of 38 stories, all about different people with different situations. Together they make a wonderful reading. I was able to start and finish a story every day without losing the course of events. The best aspect of this book is that each story has its own peace and personality. All along, the writing style for each narrative is wonderful. I give this book 5 stars. I'm looking forward to reading more of Crisci's work and I certainly will.
There's a particular time of the year when I'm always in a hurry. However, I didn't want to stop reading, I find my reading moments like an oasis in the middle of chaos. This book was perfect for this purpose. It consists of 38 stories, all about different people with different situations. Together they make a wonderful reading. I was able to start and finish a story every day without losing the course of events. The best aspect of this book is that each story has its own peace and personality. All along, the writing style for each narrative is wonderful. I give this book 5 stars. I'm looking forward to reading more of Crisci's work and I certainly will.
May 21, 2019
Only In New York is a book that tugs at your hand on the very first page to pull you headfirst into a world peopled with the most interesting, complicated and beautiful people you didn't know you needed to meet. With a beautiful economy of words, M.G. Crisci brings his New York to life so clearly, you feel as if you are walking the streets, riding the train and sitting beside him at work. In just a few pages it takes to tell each story, he deftly ensures his reader is invested in whatever adventure from his personal history he is sharing. Will there be enough of the wedding money to pay for the honeymoon suite? Will he and his doctor meet up for that long-awaited dinner? What will happen to Mr. Kelly?
These are stories that linger after you reach the end and this is not a book to rush through. Each one should be enjoyed, much like the gut-busting Thanksgiving dinner with the colourful uncles or an afternoon at the Russian Tea Room where deals are being made over expensive entrees. When you reach the end, you will understand the gift you have been given: an opportunity to walk through a busy, lively and well-lived life with an unforgettable cast of characters. The final page comes too soon and you can’t help but hope Mr. Crisci will share more of his stories soon.
These are stories that linger after you reach the end and this is not a book to rush through. Each one should be enjoyed, much like the gut-busting Thanksgiving dinner with the colourful uncles or an afternoon at the Russian Tea Room where deals are being made over expensive entrees. When you reach the end, you will understand the gift you have been given: an opportunity to walk through a busy, lively and well-lived life with an unforgettable cast of characters. The final page comes too soon and you can’t help but hope Mr. Crisci will share more of his stories soon.
April 4, 2022
The book by M. G. Crisci encompasses 38 short stories which revolve around the lands and sands of New York. With each story told in different times and circumstances, the one thread that holds them together is, New York.
The author has put forward a book with 38 amazing and unique stories. With each story, my emotions took on a roller coaster ride smiling, crying, and sympathizing all in the same book. With quirky illustrations at the beginning of each chapter, the author hooks the reader to the page with relatable events based on very real incidents. At the end of the book, I felt like I'd been to New York and lived there for a long while.
The author has put forward a book with 38 amazing and unique stories. With each story, my emotions took on a roller coaster ride smiling, crying, and sympathizing all in the same book. With quirky illustrations at the beginning of each chapter, the author hooks the reader to the page with relatable events based on very real incidents. At the end of the book, I felt like I'd been to New York and lived there for a long while.
November 20, 2020
I suppose, in some ways, even though I no longer live there I'm a New Yorker at heart. Reading these brought back sights, sounds, smells, and a nostalgia I haven't felt in a while. There's no place quite like NYC. This collection brings the city to life over a span of decades. Some places still stand, some do not. No matter the decade you can almost feel the city wrap around you. Highly recommend.
February 26, 2021
Heartfelt and Well-Written
Heartfelt and well-written memories of life in New York. Enjoyable reading for anyone who loves New York or would like to know why life in New York can provide many unique rewards.
Heartfelt and well-written memories of life in New York. Enjoyable reading for anyone who loves New York or would like to know why life in New York can provide many unique rewards.
February 4, 2022
I found every story to be interesting and loved them all. What a pleasure to read such rich, warm and sometimes hilarious stories during this difficult time we are living in. It just reminds me that the best medicine is laughter.
February 4, 2024
Going back in time
What wonderful stories and reccollections of New York City. Sounds like he could have been the original Dan Draper from Mad Men. Found one error in the book surprised wasn't caught in proof read. Jake LaMotta fought Sugar Ray Robinson not Leonard.
What wonderful stories and reccollections of New York City. Sounds like he could have been the original Dan Draper from Mad Men. Found one error in the book surprised wasn't caught in proof read. Jake LaMotta fought Sugar Ray Robinson not Leonard.
March 8, 2019
*I received an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley and would like to thank the author and/or publisher for the opportunity to read and honestly review it*
This would be an amazing gift of a book if I was related to him or knew him. His illustrations at the beginning of each story were a cute addition to this light, enjoyable read. They were the kind of stories passed around while shooting the shit where it doesn't take anything away from them even if they aren't all exact black/white quotable truth (or maybe they are and he's led an amazing, fantastical life). They weren't the most politically correct but it was in an 'old person can kind of slide by' kind of way, where you'd roll your eyes and say, "You can't say things like that anymore!!!" if you were talking to him in real life.
At first I was letting typos, missing words, and grammar things slide by both because of the kind of book it was and because I never know how much is NetGalley formatting and how much is what the author submitted. But then I saw he's written other books so I started critiquing a bit more, ending up at 3 stars.
Quote from the Book
*Since I read this from NetGalley this may not be the exact quote in the final copy*
"I'm an imperfect being who has lived an imperfect life. Through it all I have loved my New York, the streets, the people, the meter of the place. There is nothing like it anywhere in the world."
Find all my reviews at: https://readingatrandom.blogspot.com
This would be an amazing gift of a book if I was related to him or knew him. His illustrations at the beginning of each story were a cute addition to this light, enjoyable read. They were the kind of stories passed around while shooting the shit where it doesn't take anything away from them even if they aren't all exact black/white quotable truth (or maybe they are and he's led an amazing, fantastical life). They weren't the most politically correct but it was in an 'old person can kind of slide by' kind of way, where you'd roll your eyes and say, "You can't say things like that anymore!!!" if you were talking to him in real life.
At first I was letting typos, missing words, and grammar things slide by both because of the kind of book it was and because I never know how much is NetGalley formatting and how much is what the author submitted. But then I saw he's written other books so I started critiquing a bit more, ending up at 3 stars.
Quote from the Book
*Since I read this from NetGalley this may not be the exact quote in the final copy*
"I'm an imperfect being who has lived an imperfect life. Through it all I have loved my New York, the streets, the people, the meter of the place. There is nothing like it anywhere in the world."
Find all my reviews at: https://readingatrandom.blogspot.com
May 14, 2019
Only in New York is a memoir told in vignettes spanning a lifetime of the author. It starts with his humble beginnings and ends with reminiscing about all that has happened during his years in New York before relocating to the west coast.
The title of this collection is a bit misleading in that most, if not all of these stories actually are not unique to New York. Living in large cities, maybe, but not specific to one place. I did enjoy the first few stories of his childhood where he worked and schemed with friends like so many do, but it kind of dropped off from there. Many stories were about his days as an account man at Y&R, and most of them just sat there like a not-so-humble humble brag. Playing up the obvious Mad Men comparisons probably would have made it a bit more interesting for me.
For other stories, there were tales without a point. It was a simple recollection, but led to no revelations or realizations for the main players.
*Book provided by NetGalley
The title of this collection is a bit misleading in that most, if not all of these stories actually are not unique to New York. Living in large cities, maybe, but not specific to one place. I did enjoy the first few stories of his childhood where he worked and schemed with friends like so many do, but it kind of dropped off from there. Many stories were about his days as an account man at Y&R, and most of them just sat there like a not-so-humble humble brag. Playing up the obvious Mad Men comparisons probably would have made it a bit more interesting for me.
For other stories, there were tales without a point. It was a simple recollection, but led to no revelations or realizations for the main players.
*Book provided by NetGalley
February 7, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an unbiased review. Thanks for the opportunity.
I hadn't realised beforehand, that this was memoir short stories, rather than a collection of fictional shorts. Reading through, I found some stories definitely gave a flavour of the author and his family - such as working the ball stadium as a kid, or setting out on his career. Others seemed random and to not add anything of note (going for a farewell dinner with two friends before they moved). Some stories really moved me, such as when he sees a doctor and describes how they became close friends over the years. Others (mainly the ones featuring lavish expense accounts, Don Draper-esque japes and Wall Street) really turned me off.
Overall though, a decent and quick read.
I hadn't realised beforehand, that this was memoir short stories, rather than a collection of fictional shorts. Reading through, I found some stories definitely gave a flavour of the author and his family - such as working the ball stadium as a kid, or setting out on his career. Others seemed random and to not add anything of note (going for a farewell dinner with two friends before they moved). Some stories really moved me, such as when he sees a doctor and describes how they became close friends over the years. Others (mainly the ones featuring lavish expense accounts, Don Draper-esque japes and Wall Street) really turned me off.
Overall though, a decent and quick read.
March 3, 2019
What a great read!!! This book of short stories with the main setting being New York is a gem. Some of the stories are sad, some are funny. Well told and well written. All the stories were good and I have already looked for more from this author. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the arc of this book in return for my honest review. Receiving the book in this manner had no bearing on my review.
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