New York City Books - Omar Reviews
Whether it’s books, movies or any media art form, you do not have to look far to find a setting in New York City. Here are a few:
Just Kids, Patti Smith: A great read with real insights of her era in New York City where she and Robert Mapplethorpe went from wannabe artists to becoming well known.
Legends of the Chelsea Hotel: A long-term Chelsea Hotel residents take on the Famous, the also-rans and those who crashed and burned at this iconic hotel. Told mostly in short stories this is an easy fun read.
Breakfast at Tiffanys, Truman Capote: A really fun, short read, with some notable differences from the movie, including the ending. Some book copies give you a bonus of a couple of Capote’s other short stories.
Chelsea Hotel Manhattan, Joe Ambrose: Creative but a messy raw collection of Chelsea stories.
Referenced William Burroughs’ books: Naked Lunch, Junky, Queer. I have unsuccessfully tried to get through Naked Lunch twice—simply too raw and vulgar for me, despite recognizing its publication as being historically significant. Junky and Queer are both more polished and readable, as well as giving very special insights to their title subjects. These two books are also a great window to the time of the Beat Generation. (Note: Omar T in San Francisco gives a breakdown and rating to many of the Beat Writer’s books and poetry – pick up a copy ☺)
Lawrence Block offers a plethora of New York City stories. Truly, one of America’s great writers. I am particularly fond of his Bernie Rombauer series. In fact, I consider this character and the tone of these novels, as one of the great muses for Omar T and his adventures.
For Additional Beat writer reading recommendations, Check out Omar T in San Francisco recommendations :
San Francisco reading recommendations