What Is New York?

Large-scale digital promotion: The accounts for @subwaycreatures and @whatisnewyork have a combined base of almost 2.7 million followers. With a track record for generating enthusiastic press and authentic engagement, these accounts will be able to drive huge sales numbers with consistent promotional posts.Timeliness of subject and news tie-ins: While post-2010 numbers show increased growth in the population of New York City according to the Census Bureau, the crises around the coronavirus have inspired a testy back-and-forth characterized by headlines like “New York City Is Dead Forever” (New York Post) and Jerry Seinfeld’s fantastic counter to this claim made with his op-ed “So You Think New York Is Dead” (New York Times). This tumultuous current moment has placed a renewed focus on the cultural value, opportunities, and diversity that inhere New York. This book will appeal to the many Americans who have argued vociferously that New York is not “over” or “waiting to come back,” and is sure to garner attention in the press for its strong pro-New York City argument.Stylish, fresh design with color images and fascinating text: A clever design scheme that rings true to the relatable humor that’s made SubwayCreatures such a success, in addition to full-color art throughout, and enlightening text, will translate to a highly giftable keepsake package. Readers will be thrilled to carry this book with them as they journey through the city and its text and playful exercises and games will surprise, engage, and delight. Unique entry into a successful genre: Books that highlight New York’s geography and history sell well, evidenced by the success of Nonstop Metropolis (University of California Press, 2016, 25,400 RTD) and The Historical Atlas of New York City, 2nd Edition (Macmillan, 2005, 35,000 RTD). This book is a timely entry into the canon of illustrated explorations of the ever-changing city and the first book of its kind to make a strong argument for New York City’s vibrancy and staying power after the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recession, and honor the places and people lost to the virus.New York City is a celebrity in its own right—with a population of 8.4 million and a dream destination for millions more: Whether you've watched Friends, Seinfeld, Broad City, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, or Sex and the City, you know that New York is a character in its own right, capturing the hearts and minds of millions of people and inspiring countless television shows, movies, and books. This book appeals to fans of New York and those who dream of visiting, or moving to, the city by giving unparalleled access to the underground and quintessential food scenes, street art, nightlife, and characters that make it so special.