The best 21 Cities books

City of Djinns is a captivating blend of history, travelogue, and personal memoir by William Dalrymple. Set in Delhi, India, the book delves into the city's rich and complex past, uncovering forgotten legends, mystical beliefs, and fascinating characters. With Dalrymple's lyrical prose and keen observations, readers are taken on a mesmerizing journey through time and space.

Detroit City Is the Place to Be by Mark Binelli is a compelling exploration of the city of Detroit. Through a mix of personal anecdotes, historical analysis, and interviews with residents, Binelli delves into the complex and often contradictory realities of life in this iconic American city. From the decline of the auto industry to the challenges of urban renewal, this book offers a thought-provoking look at the past, present, and future of Detroit.

Insomniac City is a memoir by Bill Hayes that beautifully captures his experiences living in New York City and his relationship with the renowned neurologist, Oliver Sacks. Through poignant reflections and vivid descriptions, Hayes explores the city's vibrant energy and the profound connections he forms with its inhabitants. It is a heartfelt tribute to love, loss, and the power of human connection.

Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger is a captivating fantasy novel that follows twelve-year-old Sophie Foster, who discovers she has incredible abilities and is taken to a hidden world where she truly belongs. As she navigates this new society, she uncovers dark secrets and embarks on a thrilling adventure to save her new friends and family.

Lodestar is a captivating fantasy novel by Shannon Messenger. It follows the story of a young girl named Sophie Foster who possesses unique abilities and finds herself caught in a world of secrets, betrayal, and danger. As Sophie navigates through the challenges, she uncovers shocking truths about her own identity and the society she thought she knew.

Low Life by Lucy Sante is a fascinating exploration of the gritty underbelly of New York City in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Sante delves into the lives of the city's outcasts, criminals, and marginalized communities, uncovering a world filled with vice, poverty, and survival. It offers a unique perspective on urban history and challenges our perceptions of the past.

Palaces for the People explores the importance of social infrastructure in creating cohesive and resilient communities. Author Eric Klinenberg argues that shared spaces such as libraries, parks, and community centers play a crucial role in fostering social connections and addressing societal challenges. Drawing on research and real-life examples, the book offers a compelling case for investing in and revitalizing these “palaces for the people.”

Rebel Cities by David Harvey explores the power dynamics and political struggles within urban spaces. Through historical analysis and contemporary examples, the book argues that cities have the potential to be sites of resistance and transformation against capitalist and oppressive forces. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the role of urbanization in shaping our society.

Secret Twin Cities by Julie Jo Severson is a captivating exploration of hidden gems and little-known treasures in Minneapolis and St. Paul. From underground tunnels to quirky museums, this book uncovers the fascinating secrets that make these twin cities truly unique. Whether you're a local or a visitor, you'll be inspired to embark on your own adventures and discover the magic of the Twin Cities.

A History of Future Cities by Daniel Brook explores the development and transformation of four iconic cities – St. Petersburg, Shanghai, Mumbai, and Dubai – and how they have shaped the world we live in today. Through a blend of history, architecture, and urban planning, the book delves into the challenges and opportunities faced by these cities as they strive to become global metropolises.

Capital City by Samuel Stein examines the intersection of urban planning, real estate, and capitalism in shaping our cities. It delves into the political and economic forces behind the development of major metropolises, revealing how decisions about land use and infrastructure are often driven by profit rather than the needs of the community. A thought-provoking analysis that challenges our understanding of urbanization and its impact on society.

Green Metropolis challenges the conventional wisdom that living in a big city is bad for the environment. Author David Owen argues that urban living actually has a smaller ecological footprint than suburban or rural living. He explores how cities are more energy efficient, promote public transportation, and encourage sustainable living practices. This thought-provoking book offers a new perspective on the relationship between urbanization and environmental sustainability.

Here Is New York is a classic essay by E.B. White that captures the essence of New York City in the 1940s. With eloquent prose and keen observations, White delves into the city's unique energy, its bustling streets, and the diverse people who call it home. This timeless piece offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of one of the world's most iconic cities.

Homicide by David Simon is a gripping non-fiction book that takes you inside the world of Baltimore homicide detectives. Through in-depth interviews and firsthand observations, Simon provides a raw and unflinching look at the challenges and realities of investigating and solving murder cases in a city plagued by violence. It offers a unique perspective on the criminal justice system and the toll it takes on those who dedicate their lives to pursuing justice.

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1994) by John Berendt is a non-fiction book that delves into the eccentricities and mysteries of Savannah, Georgia. The book follows the real-life events surrounding a murder trial in the city, while also exploring its unique characters and the dark secrets hidden within its beautiful facade. Berendt's storytelling makes for a captivating read that blurs the lines between true crime and Southern Gothic fiction.

Planet of Slums by Mike Davis explores the rapid growth of urban slums in the developing world. Drawing on extensive research and case studies, the book examines the social, economic, and political factors driving this phenomenon. Davis brings attention to the harsh realities faced by slum dwellers and raises important questions about the future of our cities.

Straphanger by Taras Grescoe takes a thought-provoking look at the world of public transportation. Through personal experiences and extensive research, Grescoe challenges the idea that cars are the ultimate mode of transport and explores the benefits of trains, buses, and subways. He delves into the history, politics, and future of public transit, offering a compelling argument for its importance in creating sustainable and efficient cities.

The City & The City is a novel by China Miéville that delves into the concept of two overlapping cities, Besźel and Ul Qoma. The story follows inspector Tyador Borlú as he investigates a murder that takes him deep into the mysteries of these two intertwined cities and their strict system of separation. It is a thought-provoking blend of crime fiction and speculative fiction that challenges the way we perceive and interact with the world around us.

The Great Inversion and the Future of the American City by Alan Ehrenhalt examines the changing dynamics of urban and suburban areas in the United States. Through in-depth analysis and real-life examples, the book explores how cities are becoming more attractive to affluent individuals and families, while suburbs are experiencing demographic shifts. It offers thought-provoking insights into the potential consequences and opportunities brought about by this "great inversion" in American urban development.

The New Urban Crisis by Richard Florida explores the challenges facing cities in the 21st century. From skyrocketing housing costs to widening inequality, Florida examines how urbanization has led to a new set of problems that threaten the very fabric of our cities. Drawing on extensive research and real-life examples, the book offers thought-provoking insights and potential solutions to address these pressing issues.

The Origins of the Urban Crisis by Thomas J. Sugrue delves into the complex history of Detroit and examines how a combination of racial discrimination, economic shifts, and political decisions led to the city's decline. It challenges common narratives about urban decay and offers a thought-provoking analysis of the systemic issues that continue to affect cities today.