The Subway Diaries

by Heidi Kole

Heidi leads you on a guided tour through a subterranean world peopled by creative artists and sidewalk visionaries. Down winding tunnels and across gritty subway platforms, through her writing, both gritty and raw, she introduces you to an unforgettable cast of characters, not the least of whom is Heidi herself; a Renaissance woman, free spirit, and fearless adventurer in a world that millions pass through, but few know well. She takes you underground, where the music is the heartbeat of New York City. The chapters are informal, intimate diary entries, reading like a movie, jotted down at midnight after long sessions underground, so the book is a vivid and captivating read, like a breathless ride on the uptown express.

280 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2009

Reviews

[Jnana Hodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm surprised there aren't more stories told from the underground rails, considering the millions of people who ride them daily. It's a perfect place for peoplewatching – as Heidi Kole remarks, all the while being watched yourself. Here's a delightful example of a slice of that life seen by a singer-songwriter who took to busking in the depths of Manhattan from 2005 through 2008. It's a detailed account of her growing fondness for the gritty platforms and passageways even in bitter cold or steamy seasons, for her fellow artists who bring touches of comfort to people on the run, for the differing natures of the neighborhoods overhead, and for unexpected touches of kindness and encounters with eccentric individuals while dodging wandering cops too willing to hassle and haul off struggling musicians. Her chance introductions lead to a colorful cast over time.

[Janelle · Rating 1 out of 5]

The author is a certifiable nutbag.

[John Kane · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting discussion of Heidi Kole's path to self discovery in the NY City subways.