New York Bars at Dawn
Daniel root's captivating photographs of New York bars in their quietest hours offer a rare glimpse into the city's nocturnal soul. Taken at dawn, when the streets are still cloaked in the hush of early morning, these images strip away the noise of the day to reveal the intimate character of spaces that thrive after dark.The interplay of dim lighting, flickering neon, and the lingering essence of the night-whether it's the quiet dignity of a dive bar or the curated atmosphere of a renowned hotspot-creates a visual narrative that feels both haunting and intimate. Root's lens captures the subtle details that define these places: faded wallpaper, weathered fixtures, and the faint glow of a single bulb, all hinting at the lives and stories that unfold within their walls.
Each image in this collection is a testament to Root's dedication to urban storytelling and aesthetic depth. By photographing these venues before thay're repopulated by the day, he immortalizes their raw, unadorned state, where the energy of the night lingers in the air and the architecture tells its own quiet tale. The book features a curated mix of iconic spots and overlooked gems,from the historic Stonewall Inn to hidden corners of the city,ensuring a diverse visual journey. Accompanied by insightful commentary from Rosie Schaap and Suzaan Boettger, the volume elevates the experience of observing these spaces, making it a compelling resource for anyone drawn to the mystery of nightlife, the art of interiors, or the soul of a city.
- Pros
- Unique viewpoint on urban spaces
- High-quality, full-color photography
- Insights from notable authors and art historians
- Diverse range of venues, from iconic to obscure
- Essential for photography enthusiasts
- Thoughtful design and layout
- Perfect for capturing the essence of New York's nightlife
- Rich storytelling through visual detail
- Cons
- Limited context on the bars' histories or current status
- ephemeral nature of the scenes may not appeal to all
- Physical copy weight may make it less portable
- Requires a specific interest in photography or urban culture
- Print edition only, no digital format
Publisher | Abbeville Press |
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Publication Date | October 31, 2023 |
Language | English |
Print Length | 224 pages |
ISBN-10 | 0789214776 |
Item Weight | 3.26 pounds |
Dimensions | 10.2 x 1 x 10.2 inches |
Around the World in 80 Cocktails
Explore the rich, interconnected history of cocktails through a lens of global cultures and curious anecdotes.This book weaves together the evolution of iconic drinks with narratives that reveal how geography, tradition, and even moments of historical meaning shaped their creation. From the bubbly origins of the Venetian Spritz tied to military history to the unexpected journey of the G&T across continents, each chapter offers a blend of storytelling and practical recipes, inviting readers to replicate these beverages at home. The vintage-style illustrations complement the journey, enhancing the experience with a nostalgic, travel-poster aesthetic that feels both timeless and evocative.
Delve into the lesser-known facts that make cocktail history so captivating: Did Winston Churchill's mother really invent the Manhattan? How did the El Morocco cocktail gain its name beyond the nightclub? These questions are answered with engaging clarity, alongside insights into the role of "startenders" in the 19th century and the origins of Irish Coffee as a comfort for long flights. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or a curious traveler, the book provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past while sipping on its legacy, all through a curated selection of 80 drinks that span centuries and continents.
Pros
- Rich historical context - Each cocktail is paired with its origin story, linking drinks to cultural and geopolitical events.
- Practical recipes - Step-by-step instructions make it easy to recreate iconic cocktails at home.
- Stunning visuals - Vintage-style illustrations add a sense of nostalgia and elevate the reading experience.
- Engaging trivia - Fun facts about figures like Hemingway and Churchill's mother deepen the narrative.
- Compact, well-organized format - Clear sections and bite-sized stories keep the content accessible and easy to follow.
Cons
- Somewhat niche appeal - May not resonate as strongly with casual readers or those uninterested in history.
- Repetitive structure - The format of pairing stories with recipes could feel formulaic for some.
- Occasional historical ambiguity - Some trivia, like the Manhattan's origin, may not be definitively proven.
- Limited depth in certain regions - Some cocktails recieve more detailed exploration than others.
- Physical format - The 192-page size may not suit readers preferring more extensive content.
Key Features | Specifications |
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80 iconic cocktails with historical narratives | Publisher: Hardie Grant Books |
Vintage-style illustrations | Publication Date: October 3, 2017 |
Focus on global cultural and historical ties | Edition: Illustrated |
Engaging trivia and lesser-known facts | Language: English |
Travel-inspired storytelling | Print Length: 192 pages |
Little Chapel on the river: A Pub, a Town and the Search for What Matters Most
When a series of tragic events uprooted her life in the heart of Manhattan, journalist Wendy bounds found herself unexpectedly drawn to the quiet charm of Garrison, New York. Her journey to the town began at the doorstep of Jim Guinan's beloved bar, a cozy hub where the Hudson river whispers against the wooden planks and the air is thick with stories. With its rustic decor, generations of patrons, and the warm camaraderie of a tight-knit community, the establishment offered more than just refreshments-it became a sanctuary. Bounds,initially a stranger,quickly discovered the rhythm of life in this small town through the bar's vibrant history and the quirks of its diverse clientele,all of whom felt like family. The experience provided a rare opportunity to step away from the noise of city life and immerse oneself in the simplicity and authenticity of a place where history and personality intertwine seamlessly.
Living in Garrison allowed Bounds to forge deeper connections with the people and traditions that shaped the town's character. The bar, with its unpretentious charm and enduring presence, became a mirror for her own journey of self-finding, reflecting the resilience and warmth of its inhabitants. Through Jim Guinan's steadfast presence and the anecdotes of his regulars, she gained insight into the layers of community and the quiet strength found in shared spaces. The narrative captures the real-world benefit of finding belonging in unexpected places, offering readers a glimpse into how small-town life can foster meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose.it's a testament to the power of ordinary environments to become unusual anchors in someone's life.
Pros
- Rich historical context of a unique local establishment
- Heartwarming portrayal of community and human connection
- Authentic depiction of small-town life and rhythms
- Personal narrative that resonates with readers
Cons
- Overly sentimental tone in certain sections
- Limited perspective due to the single-observer viewpoint
- Some characters may feel underdeveloped
- Focus on a specific demographic (urban-to-rural transition)
Feature | Detail |
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Publication Date | july 25, 2006 |
Edition | Reprint |
Page Count | 320 pages |
ISBN | 0060564075 (ISBN-10), 978-0060564070 (ISBN-13) |
Dimensions | 5.31 x 8 x 0.72 inches |
Unleash Your True potential
The blog post explores three unique narratives that capture the essence of places where stories unfold under the glow of bar lights and the clink of glasses. New York Bars at Dawn offers a glimpse into the mystical and often overlooked world of Manhattan's early morning scenes. Around the World in 80 Cocktails transports readers to global destinations through the lens of vibrant cocktails and cultural stories. Meanwhile, Little Chapel on the River: A Pub, a Town and the Search for What Matters Most intertwines the author's personal journey with the rich history of a small-town pub, revealing how these spaces become the heart of community and identity. Whether seeking nocturnal magic, global adventures, or introspective stories, each book presents a different way to connect with the timeless allure of bars and cocktails.

New York Bars at Dawn
Uncover the hidden magic of Manhattan's bar culture and the transformative power of storytelling in the city's rarest hours.

Around the World in 80 Cocktails
Experience a global journey through 80 captivating cocktails, each steeped in the soul of its origin and the art of mixology.
Little Chapel on the River: A Pub, a Town and the Search for What Matters Most
A deeply personal love letter to a small-town pub and its vibrant community, blending memoir with the rich history of a beloved gathering place.