5 comments about Chicago at the Turn of the Century in Photographs: 122 Historic Views from the Collections of the Chicago Historical Society.

1. I have been to Chicago many years since I lived in IL from 1933 to 1963. My mother's people came to Chicago in the 1830's.
   I found the early photos extremely interesting as I am a former teacher of both high school & college history. I reall liked this book as I had seen it before & could not locate another copy until I saw it on Amazon.
   Many Thanks for stocking this item.



2. Great look into the "City of Big Shoulders" at the turn of the century. Good aid to understanding of urban America at the beginning of the 20Th Century



3. This book contains full page photos, many of which I had never seen before. The clarity of the photographs is comparable to the digital photos we are able to take now. Although the book consists mainly of photos of buildings (of course) there are many which include pedestrians, carriages, automobiles, signs, etc. I think this book would be interesting to anyone studying Chicago, the history of the time period, architecture, clothing or photography, or to anyone who simply loves old photographs. The only complaint I have is that some of the photos were not dated. Very good book!



4. This deserves 10 stars! A large format book with the finest photo's I have ever seen of Chicago's historical architecture. You will love it!



5. If you don't believe that Chicago was the world leader in architecture at the end of the 19th century, buy this book - you might just change your mind!
   
   First off, there are maps that show the location of each photograph. If you don't know the city, that helps you get things organized in your mind. If you know the city, you can do your own "then and now" comparison based on your latest visit. Most of these gems are long gone, and were replaced by poor substitutes. The author then does a good job of explaining about the photographs themselves. When and why they were taken, how they were used, the equipment involved, and why these particular negatives were chosen.
   
   And then, you are allowed to feast your eyes on 122 full-page shots of old Chicago. The focus is on architecture, but you'll see some of the people, the river commerce, the "El", and the bustle of commerce. You do have to live with the photographic constraints of the day, e.g. everything is black and white, and the street scenes contain blurs of motion from people and vehicles, owing to the long exposure times. Some of the negatives are damaged, particularly around the edges, but to the author's credit, there is no attempt at photoshopping to fix the problems. What you see is the best, most accurate presentation possible.
   
   This is a great look at a lost time, and lost architecture. Highly recommended.

2 comments about Time Out Chicago (Time Out Guides).

1. I recently discovered the Time Out guides when travelling to Buenos Aires last November. If you have gone thru the backpacking stage, Time Out gives you accurate information about restaurants, shopping and hotels, and it does not mean you have to go the expensive way. Maps are intuitive and easy to use and the guide structure allows you to find what you are looking for whithout the annoying feeling I've had with other guides.



2. Chicago is a terrific place to visit whether for business or for pleasure, for a weekend or a week. For those who live in or around the Windy City, it's possible to spend every day of the year exploring its sights and cultural resources. But whether a casual traveler or a interested resident, taking full advantage of what Chicago has to offer will require an expert travel guide and resource manual -- and that's where "Time Out: Chicago" truly comes into its own. This 336-page compilation of information begins with a succinct overview of the city's history, architecture, politics, music, and sports. Then it goes on to feature places to go, things to do, sights to see, events to participate in, that will keep the vacationer or resident happily occupied with experience the very best that the city has to offer from fine dining, to memorable accommodations, diverse recreations, and so much more. Enhanced with photographs, maps, and recommendations for day trips out of town, "Time Out Chicago" is comprehensive, portable, 'user friendly', and an ideal trip planning resource. Also very highly recommended as a companion guide is "Time Out Chicago: Eating & Drinking" (9780979398438, $9.99) which focuses specifically on 1500 of the city's best restaurants and bars.

No comments about LUXE Chicago (LUXE City Guides).

4 comments about Zagat 2007/08 Chicago Restaurants: Including Milwaukee.

1. I think these make the perfect gift to anyone relocating to a 'Zagat City'. I really like how the editors construct the descriptions by combining actual reviewer quotes submitted in their survey process. Main restaurant listing is alphabetical, but includes seperate lists by location, cuisine, special features, etc.
   
   If anything, buy one just to sit on your coffee table.



2. I've been living in Chicago for a year and a half. Before buying this guide I used to go to expensive and not so good restaurants and I was always complaining about it. After buying this guide I found out some amazing places at reasonable prices. Worth every penny!



3. the reviews of the restaurants is too brief and generally give insuficient information to make an lntelligent choice.



4. Poor guide.
   
   The food recomendations are mainly well known food chains. They seem to have failed to seek enough for original places.

5 comments about Oddball Wisconsin: A Guide to Some Really Strange Places (Oddball series).

1. Where does this guy get all this information? I thought the book would only be full of goofy things like monolithic cheese monuments and the world's largest six pack. Although it has that in spades, there are also plenty of historical places to see, like the shrine to the birthplace of the Republican party and the grave of Edward Gein, inspiration for Silence of the Lambs.

   Growing up on the west coast, we used to watch movies about the midwest and say things like, "Wouldn't you go absolutely insane in some small town out there?" Oddball Wisconsin has answered my question.

   This is a great book if you're in the area or just want to get out of Chicago for a while.




2. Most people when they go on vacation go to national parks like the Grand Canyon or theme parks like Disneyland. How many would go to see the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame with a giant embalmed worm on display? Or how about the world's biggest corkscrew? A serial killer's grave? The author saw these things and more in Wisconsin and compiled them into this book. It's an enjoyable journey through Wisconsin's strange side and is recommended for die-hard road trippers or those interested in America's stranger side.



3. If you have an appetite for the curious or offbeat, this book will fill the bill. I don't have plans to visit all the places and things mentioned in this book, but just sitting and reading it was a hoot. Not just a guide to the oddball, but histories and trivia are included. This is Wisconsin at its best.



4. This is a fun and interesting book about Wisconsin.
   Each chapter, according to areas of the state, gets better and better. I couldn't put it down!



5. This is one of the most enjoyable books I've ever read about my home state--in the midst of so much (generally) endearing weirdness, Jerome Pohlen manages to capture the spirit of this place better than any "Discover Wisconsin" ad campaign I've ever seen.
   
   Pohlen casts a broad swath over the entire state, even above Highway 8 "up nort" (a lot of people tend to forget that we even exist, so it's always refreshing to find someone who hasn't), in search of the strange, the homespun, the downright wacky, even the morbid. And he finds it in spades. Whether you're a local Sconny looking for some ideas for day trips, or an out-of-stater passing through on the way to the Dells, there's something in this book that you'll feel compelled to stop & see. Well, if you're into fiberglass oddities and going somewhere other than Door County, that is.

No comments about Readings in Russian Civilization, Volume 1: Russia Before Peter the Great, 900-1700.

5 comments about Odyssey to Ushuaia: A Motorcycling Adventure from New York to Tierra del Fuego.

1. The reader should not expect to learn much about any of the Latin American countries that the author visited. This is a book about what goes on inside a Yankee motorcyclist's head, not about Latin America. The author seems ill-informed about the places he travels, so can say very little about them.

   One star because it is very well written, very readable.




2. I have never read a "Travel" book before, let alone a "Motorcycle Travel" book so I may not be qualified to say that this is more of a tale of adventure than a guide of any sort. That said, this book has been a page-turner that has me looking for something similar to replace it now that it is over. Andre's makes you feel like you have been on the road (and off the road) and conveys, often at his own expense, a sense of the ups and downs of his relationship with his two riding partners.
   This is not a Moto-Travel reference. It is not a guide to where to stay or what to eat. It is a true-life tale of a dream come to life. I hope to follow in Andres, Peters and Robert's footsteps some day.



3. The author describes his journey through the eastern and southeastern portion of the U.S. and on to Mexico, Central and South America with two riding companions he met over the internet. Although the story doesn't really begin until he and his riding partners reach Mexico. His humor stands out throughout the book and his shenannigans with the local woman are quite entertaining. He does dicuss the route and the difficulty at many border crossing along with the problems that arise while travelling south of the border. The sometimes difficult relationships he has riding with two people he doesn't know well and the difference in riding abilities. As I said it's not a travel guide, if you are planning a trip down south, it may give some insight on various questions one may have. A worth while read for any adventure tourers.



4. He tells some pretty good stories here and there. Some good advice is given about border crossings. However, it was annoying how he letcherously pursued the women along the way. Ick.



5. If you're interested in a book more about feelings of a poorly organized motorcycle trip than learning about riding thru the Americas, this one's for you.

5 comments about The Dog Lover's Companion to Chicago: The Inside Scoop on Where to Take Your Dog (Dog Lover's Companion Guides).

1. Enhanced with the charming illustrations of Phil Frank, The Dog Lover's Companion To Chicago: The Inside Scoop On Where To Take Your Dog by Margaret Littman is an indispensable guide especially recommended for true dog lovers who live in or near Chicago -- or who plan to vacation there with their beloved pet. Region-by-region examination of dog friendly places, as well as a listing of pet-related resources from veterinary hospitals to groomers, animal shelters, pet taxis, dog walkers, dog bakeries, waste removal services and much more, The Dog Lover's Companion To Chicago is a fun, friendly, information-packed, and useful reference.



2. Littman has really done her homework here--this is without a doubt the best-written and most useful Chicago-dog-owner guidebook I've read. I bought it right after I adopted my dog Molly, and it has provided us with infomation for a wealth of adventures we never would have known of. Littman (accompanied by her trusty companion Natasha) covered the entire Chicagoland metropolitan area, from the expected dog parks and dog-friendly cafes to the surprising (e.g., the dog-friendly acreage at Fermi Lab). Interspersed throughout the book are short sidebars about dog-friendly events, self-serve dog washes, and more.
   
   The most amazing part of the book was the coverage of Chicago's parks. Littman and Natasha visited every single park in the city (and that's a lot of parks!). While all city parks have leash laws, some are more fun to explore (both for canines and humans) than others. Most notable are the three great west side parks Humboldt, Garfield, and Douglas Parks. These enormous facilities were were planned and designed in 1871 by William Le Baron Jenney to form a large park system connected by a series of interlinking grand boulevards. The parks were modified and improved in the early 20th century by Jens Jensen and are a model of Prairie- style landscaping, featuring formal gardens, reflecting pools, lagoons, and boathouses. Sadly, the parks are situated in neighborhoods that had high rates of gang activity and crime for much of the late 20th century. Today, however, crime in these parks and the surrounding areas is falling (albeit slowly) and all three parks are undergoing extensive rehabbing, with both factors bringing an increased number of visitors. Littman gives the specific history of each park and describes not-to-be-missed architectural highlights in each, as well as noting the walking trails and other areas of great interest to the four-legged among us. I found this part of the book the most enjoyable, not only for the fascinating bits of Chicago history, but also for the good writing: Littman keeps the pace going and the text engaging. An absolute must-have for owners of Chicago dogs who want to do more than just play at the local dog park every weekend.



3. Margret Littman knows Chicago, knows dogs and most importantly knows how to share information in a fun, friendly, organized and entertaining way. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the first edition of her book, the 2nd edition proves to offer even more details, stories and ideas for the Chicago dog lover. As a dog trainer and owner of three dogs myself, I have found myself turning the pages of The Dog Lover's Companion to Chicago with great enthusiasm while making mental notes about new places to explore with my pack. Thanks to Ms. Littman for providing our great city with yet another invaluable book. Can't wait for the 3rd edition!



4. This is a nice little book with lots of info for dog owners in Chicago. However, the first time I took my pooch, Kylie, to one of their recommended dining spots (Brett's Kitchen) I was told dogs weren't allowed and, further, they had no idea why they were listed in this book. However, we did find a great spot nearby on Franklin Street, Kitsch'n River North, where their first order of business was providing Kylie with a large bowl of water. Too bad they are not in the book...we had a great brunch, and Kiley had fun dog-watching.



5. Where can I go? Where can I not? Are dogs allowed on the beach? Can I get a Starbuck's with my dog?
   
   These are all wonderful questions answered in this volume that is extremely easy to navigate. New to a downtown neighborhood, this book has been a lifesaver for me.

5 comments about The Chicago Outfit (IL) (Images of America).

1. This is a fantastic book. A lot of pictures that have never been seen until now. If you don't have it, get it!



2. This is an exceptionally concise overview of organized crime in Chicago and Cook County, Illinois. The text is supported with a large number of archival photographs, including many which have not been available to the general public before. A significant number of the pictures appear to have originated with the Chicago Crime Commission, an independent investigatory body which was established at the beginning of the Prohibition Era. That the commission continues to exist today tells you that the Chicago Outfit continued to operate and flourish long after the repeal of the Eighteenth Amendment and the Volstead Act.
   
   Many of these photographs were originally intended as to be used as resources to support law enforcement activities and many were not published in the print media. Each chapter division begins with a detailed summary of the particular decade under examination and is followed by a series of photographs with descriptive captions. Binder's comments are brief and precise. The book focuses upon Capone and his successors, but also contains some information on their precursors and rivals.
   
   If you only have time to read a single volume on organized crime in Chicago and its suburbs, "The Chicago Outfit" can serve as your "Cliff Notes." It can also be used as a convenient reference work and starting point for those interested in reading more upon the subject before they take up the heavier tomes. You might well find yourself engrossed in another book and pausing to seek out a photograph in "The Chicago Outfit" before you resume your reading.



3. This book is a great overview pictoral of the Chicago Outfit with a focus on the early years. For me it was a goldmine as I was doing a genealogy search as well.



4. I thought that the research was excellent and the information was presented in an interesting, yet educational format. Having lived near Chicago and visiting many, many times it was great to get the goods on the organized crime and some of the background on what made Chicago what it is today. I am personal friends with the neice of one of the books long running Outfit standouts and we have mentioned this book to a lot of her travel groups. Two thumbs up for the pictures and descriptions. Mayor Daily may have tried to wipe out the past in the 1960's, but history is what history was and closing your eyes, sticking your fingers in your ears while yelling, "la-la-ls-la" while having important landmarks torn down is not the way to deal with this bit of history.



5. Got it as a gift and absolutely love it. FILLED with photos and accurate info. A must have for the avid Chicago Mob collector!

2 comments about Hour Chicago: Twenty-five 60-Minute Self-guided Tours of Chicago's Great Architecture and Art.

1. Other guidebooks can tell you where to eat, where to stay, what to wear or what plays to go to. But if you love cities because of their art and architecture, if you want to get off the tour bus, THIS is the guidebook you want.
   
   The author is the perfect guide. After a few pages, you feel like you've gotten to know her, and you're eager to get her opinions on whatever she shows you on the next page. She's not afraid to say when she thinks a building is dull, which is a nice change from the hype of most tourist guides. But when she likes something, it's obvious. Somehow she can explain what makes a painting, sculpture or building great, in just a few choice words. You get the feeling she knows way more than she has space to share. But "share" is the word. She doesn't talk down to the reader, but she also knows that not everyone has a masters in fine art and architecture. There's a great glossary and good maps, which you'll need, because this guide doesn't stop at the Art Institute and the Loop. It takes you into the neighborhoods for galleries, architecture and smaller museums with collections that are world-class, but are overshadowed by the Art Institute.
   
   The book is the perfect size for a backpack or fanny pack -- you can tell it's meant to be USED. The prose is clean and direct, and should not be a problem for tourists whose 1st language is not English.
   
   It's organized into short tours that you really can take if you only have an hour, but you can also string them together if you're lucky enough to have a weekend or a lifetime. (This book is not just for tourists. It's must for people who live here, especially if you already think you know the city.)
   
   What I like most about this book is that it seems to have a special place in its heart for the person who is by himself or herself. Anyone who's travelled to a great city alone has felt at times the lack of a companion to share the experience with. You find yourself wanting to turn to someone and see your excitement reflected back. In "Hour Chicago,"that person is the author. You feel like, whether she's physically there or not, she wrote this book for you and is hoping to see her excitement reflected back in you.



2. One doesn't need an entire day to appreciate the arts and life of the great city of Chicago. "Hour Chicago: Twenty Five Self-Guided Sixty Minute Tours of Chicago's Great Architecture and Art" is a guide for tourists and residents who looking to savor full appreciation of the city's culture in conveniently bite-sized doses. Presented in a compact and portable form, Hour Chicago is the perfect guide to carry along for any trip through the city. Highly recommended for community library travel collections.