Roman, Elliott, and Robert Caro: Live in Conversation

Published in 1961, 'The Death and Life of Great American Cities' is a seminal work by Jane Jacobs that critiques the urban planning policies of the 1950s. Jacobs argues against the modernist urban renewal practices that separated uses and led to the decline of city neighborhoods. She advocates for dense, mixed-use development, walkable streets, and the importance of 'eyes on the street' to maintain public order. The book emphasizes the complexity of urban life and the need for planning that prioritizes the needs and experiences of residents. Jacobs uses her own neighborhood, Greenwich Village, as a model for a healthy and vibrant urban environment, contrasting it with the urban renewal projects championed by figures like Robert Moses[2][3][5].

The novel, told through the stream of consciousness of its narrator Bob Slocum, examines his life as a businessman, his family relationships, and his own psyche. Slocum's narrative is a complex mix of memories, fantasies, and current events, often in non-chronological order. The book satirizes business life and American culture, highlighting Slocum's discontent and desolation despite his material successes. It is known for its meticulous prose, dark humor, and the exploration of themes such as anxiety, fear, and the human condition[2][4][5].

This book is a monumental biography of Robert Moses, who was the single most powerful man in New York City and State during his time. It explores how Moses accumulated and wielded power, shaping the city through his public works projects, including highways, bridges, and parks. The book delves into Moses's early life, his idealistic beginnings, and his transformation into a powerful figure who dominated New York's politics without ever being elected. It also highlights the social and environmental impacts of his projects and his eventual fall from power. The biography is renowned for its detailed and nuanced portrayal of power dynamics in urban politics[2][4][5].