Synopsis: This manifesto by renowned town planners Andres Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk proposes an alternative model for community design, advocating for a return to traditional planning principles to combat suburban sprawl in North America. The authors highlight the ecological and economic unsustainability of sprawl and its negative impact on various demographics, including children, the elderly, and the middle class. In "Suburban Nation," they assess the societal costs of sprawl—ecological, economic, aesthetic, and social—and critique the development community and government for the decline of traditional town building. The book also offers potential solutions to address these issues.

Synopsis: *A Prayer for the City* delves into the life of Philadelphia mayor Ed Rendell, an unconventional leader determined to save his city. Rendell confronts challenges head-on, from dealing with unions to lobbying for jobs, all while navigating the unpredictable nature of public opinion. The narrative also highlights the struggles of citizens facing crises, including a woman striving for her family's future, a father at risk of losing his job, and a policy analyst grappling with the impact of crime. This poignant and insightful portrayal captures a city in turmoil, showcasing the blend of political courage and hope needed for urban revitalization.

Synopsis: David Rodinsky lived above a synagogue in London's East End and disappeared in the late 1960s. His room, filled with writings, annotated books, maps, records, and clothes, remained untouched for 20 years. This arrangement intrigued artist Rachel Lichtenstein, whose grandparents had fled Poland in the 1930s. Over time, she documented the artifacts from Rodinsky's room and created installations inspired by his legacy. In "Rodinsky's Room," Lichtenstein and Iain Sinclair explore her obsession with unraveling Rodinsky’s story, blending elements of mystery, memoir, and travelogue, while honoring a world and a life that have largely disappeared.

Synopsis: In the late nineteenth century, Boston transformed from a bustling merchant town into a divided metropolis, characterized by an inner city of commerce and slums and an outer city of commuter suburbs. "Streetcar Suburbs" explores who built this new city, their motivations, and the methods they employed. The book includes a new introduction that examines the current suburb/city divide and offers insights for creating a livable future city.