Anthony Mitchell Sammarco

This isn't well done at all. It's a photo book, which is fine, although there are some odd choices in the photo selection. However, the captions often don't identify the date, the photographer, or any other information about the source, and the historical information given in them is often contradictory and confusing. (For instance, on one page an island is described as being named after the man who acquired it in 1626; on the facing page he's described as acquiring it in 1622.) These sorts show more of errors, along with the confusing way in which the islands are grouped and discussed in the book, leaves one wondering how reliable the history given actually is. And it's woefully incomplete. Many of the islands are barely mentioned. It's disappointing, as the Boston Harbor Islands have a fascinating history that throws an interesting light on the history of urban planning, fishing, marine navigation, defense, immigration, medicine, poverty, and prisons. I would like to read that sort of a book. This, like others in the same series, is more of a novelty, limited-interest kind of publication, long on nostalgia and short on actual facts. Worth checking out of the library; not worth bothering to buy. show less

The photographs are stunning, but I found the text to be poorly written, occasionally simplistic and (not so) subtly racist. I also found it telling (in a book that gives significant and well-deserved attention to Italian immigrants) that there is a glaring absence of any mention whatsoever of Sacco and Vanzetti, probably the two most famous Italian immigrants to Boston in the time period the book covers, if not ever.

This pictorial essay depicts Boston, via photos and drawings, as it was prior to the Great Fire of 1872; during the Fire (artists' renderings); in the immediate aftermath of the conflagration; and after it was subsequently rebuilt. Extensive captions analyze the development, destruction, and rebirth of the city's downtown area.

Many of the photos of the fire's aftermath are absolutely gripping. I felt that some of the captions omitted information that might have been helpful; some references show more were obviously geared to those familiar with the city's history. The nature of the photos entailed duplication of some information in multiple shots. Overall, a good, solid depiction of downtown Boston before and after the fire. show less

At least I tried to read it. Seemed to have lots of history about Baker Chocolate Company of which I had interest. However, the book's organization was lacking and left me flipping through the book and just scanning information. I was really disappointed especially since I had to special order a copy from a long distance library.