Guide to contemporary New York City architecture

Architect, critic, and blogger Hill (archidose.org) offers up an absorbing and idiosyncratic guide to New York City's newest buildings, streetscapes, and public spaces. The title promises objectivity, but the 200-plus entries selected by Hill betray an affinity for the finely detailed and intimate. Along with the expected inclusion of attractions like the Museum of Modern Art are many small-scale gems only a true insider could identify. Town houses, private schools, and even a vending kiosk are worth a look as you follow the itineraries organized along walking, subway, and bus routes in all five boroughs. Hill's commentary is incisive, and he pulls no punches about weaknesses he finds. The book itself is a small-format, sturdy production with at least one excellent color photo of each building. VERDICT For those indefatigably obsessed with architecture of the past decade, this guide will provide weeks if not months of touring pleasure. The more casual tourist will be satisfied with a guide like the 2011 edition of Frommer's 24 Great Walks in New York.-David Soltesz, Cuyahoga Cty. P.L., Parma, OH (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.