The Power Broker #1: Robert Caro

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.

Our Crowd: The Great Jewish Families of New York explores the lives of influential Jewish families who immigrated from Germany to New York in the 19th century. These families, including the Seligmans, Lehmans, Schiffs, Guggenheims, and others, built significant fortunes and established themselves as a distinct social elite, despite being excluded from the upper echelons of New York society. The book delves into their financial and social histories, highlighting their contributions to banking, philanthropy, and the arts.