Fiorello H. LA Guardia and the Making of Modern New York [Hardcover]

Thomas Kessner (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Tagged a "lower case Frank Roosevelt" and a "sawed off Mussolini," La Guardia left a larger mark upon the New York mayoralty than anyone before or since. Eight biographies attest to that, alongside a half-dozen books of lesser scope, not to mention an autobiography, children's books, and a musical. Kessner has topped them all with a biography covering La Guardia's entire life (unlike most of the other books), skillfully enhancing the existing record with interviews, archival work, and a reading of the contemporary press. While reporting failure in fiscal policy, organized crime, and other areas, Kessner is mainly an admirer of the man who "forged a modern unified city." In a year when La Guardia's most colorful successor has again faced the voters (and lost in the primary), this is highly recommended for all types of libraries.
- Robert F. Nardini, N. Chichester, N.H.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 700 pages
• Publisher: Mcgraw-Hill (October 1989)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 007034244X
• ISBN-13: 978-0070342446
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.2 x 2.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.6 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #737,785 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good look at maybe the greatest Mayor in American history., January 6, 2000

By 

Michael J. Berquist - See all my reviews

This review is from: Fiorello H. LaGuardia (Mass Market Paperback)

Fiorello H. La Guardia may have been the greatest leader of urban government in American history. His tireless enthusiasm and talent for getting things done ranks him as a giant in the pantheon of American political leaders. Thomas Kessner's book, on the balance, does a good job describing what made La Guardia tick and how he tried to improve the city. Readable, informative.