Manhattan - by Jennifer Thermes (Hardcover)

About the Book

"An innovative look back through time, [this book] follows the history of Manhattan Island from its natural formation to the bustling city today. It explores the ways in which nature and people are connected, tracking the people who lived on Manhattan from the Lenape Indians to Dutch settlers hunting for beaver pelts to early Americans and beyond, and how they've (literally) shaped the island (and vice versa). Jen Thermes highlights watershed moments where nature demanded action of New Yorkers--the Great Fire of 1835, the Great Blizzard of 1888, and Hurricane Sandy in 2012. In special sidebars, she closely traces specific threads of history and their lasting impact today--New York as a hub for immigration and the slave trade, for example. An epic volume that chronicles the rise of Manhattan through the lenses of geography, city planning, sociology, historiography, and more, Manhattan Maps is a groundbreaking format that will fascinate curious readers of all ages"--

Book Synopsis

Told in dazzling maps and informative sidebars, critically acclaimed author-illustrator Jennifer Thermes's Manhattan explores the 400+ year history of Manhattan Island.

From before its earliest settlement to the vibrant metropolis that exists today, the island of Manhattan has always been a place of struggle, growth, and radical transformation. Humans, history, and natural events have shaped this tiny sliver of land for more than 400 years.

In Manhattan, travel back in time to discover how a small rodent began an era of rapid change for the island. Learn about immigration, the slave trade, and the people who built New York City. See how a street plan projected the city's future, and how epic fires and storms led to major feats of engineering above and below ground.

Through dramatic illustrations, informative sidebars, and detailed maps inspired by historic archives, Manhattan explores the rich history that still draws people from all around the world to the island's shores today. From The Battery downtown up to Inwood, every inch of the island has a story to tell.

"Thermes, also a map illustrator, shows off her skills with detailed maps that reveal the origins of Broadway, Wall Street, and other landmarks . . . This slice of American history is a gem." --Booklist (Starred Review)

"A fascinating account of New York City's development from the time of the Lenape people to the present day." --Shelf Awareness (Starred Review)

Review Quotes

**STARRED REVIEW**
"A fascinating account of New York City's development from the time of the Lenape people to the present day."-- "Shelf Awareness"

**STARRED REVIEW**
"Like Manhattan itself, much is packed into this handsomely illustrated history."-- "Publishers Weekly"

**STARRED REVIEW**
"The maps, colorful illustrations, and accessible text present a comprehensive history of Manhattan as an island and a good introduction to the study of urban growth for students of all ages."-- "School Library Journal"

**STARRED REVIEW**
"The vibrant history that unfolds will hold children's attention through repeated viewings."-- "Kirkus Reviews"

**STARRED REVIEW**
"Thermes, also a map illustrator, shows off her skills with detailed maps that reveal the origins of Broadway, Wall Street, and other landmarks . . . This slice of American history is a gem."-- "Booklist"

"The history in the book is as much an abundance as its pictures . . . a splendid homage."-- "The Horn Book"

About the Author

Jennifer Thermes is a map illustrator and the author-illustrator of books for children, including Charles Darwin's Around-the-World Adventure and Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail. She lives in Connecticut.