Literary New York

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There are many things that worry me about New York City. I’m spoiled by temperate Pacific Northwest temperatures and my idea of dressing for the winter mostly involves wearing my summer sundress with tights and boots and throwing on a peacoat. Rent prices in the city already make me cry on the inside, and I’m not looking forward to dealing with the cost of groceries. Nevertheless, there are a good many things to be excited about (Broadway, the Met, decent public transportation) and this blog post, "A Book Lover's Guide to Literary New York," over at http://youngadventuress.com/ highlights a few more treats to anticipate.

“Bibliophiles rejoice! The gaping dearth of online information about the bookish side of Manhattan has now been filled by yours truly. For those of you who have a deep, insatiable passion for the written word, for those who buy books faster than they can finish them, for those who get book hangovers after finishing a great story, look no further. This article is dedicated to you.”

I love her blogging style, first and foremost. Her prose is descriptive and elegant. It’s to the point as well as conversational. Also, I’m a said bibliophile, and I’m so excited to check out the locations she’s described in her blog. I’ve already been to the New York Public library, but I had no idea about some of the other locations, especially the Library Hotel and the Strand Bookstore. I recently went to Portland, and Powell’s, and I’m glad to know that there is a bookstore similar to Powell’s in Manhattan. (I have such a soft spot for bookstores). The Library Hotel just looks gorgeous, with hidden literary quirks in the room, pillow chocolates, and old-style architecture. She also recommends the rare books at the Pierpoint Morgan Library, which I had never heard of, and the Housing Works Bookstore cafe.  I visited the displays at the British Library two years ago, and I’m excited to see the manuscripts and rare book displays at the Morgan Library.  As for Housing Works, I’m always in the mood for sitting down and working at a cafe!

One definite advantage to NYC is how enthusiastic people get about the city. This summer, I’ve already been given a steady list of must-sees there and made my way through several different New York themed movies and TV shows (Suits!). I’ve seen New York city portrayed through Gossip Girls, The Devil Wears Prada, Enchanted, Glee, and I haven’t even begun to scrape the surface. Glad to add this blog’s five book-themed recommendations to my list.