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Why New Orleans Matters

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By Tom Piazza

New Orleans is a city like no other. It is a place where the past and present collide, where cultures intertwine, and where the spirit of creativity and resilience thrives. In his new book, Why New Orleans Matters, Tom Piazza takes readers on a lyrical and deeply personal journey into the heart of this extraordinary city.

Piazza, a lifelong resident of New Orleans, is a gifted storyteller with a deep understanding of his city's history, culture, and people. In Why New Orleans Matters, he weaves together personal anecdotes, historical research, and cultural insights to create a rich and nuanced portrait of the city he loves.

Why New Orleans Matters

by Tom Piazza

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	269 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

Piazza begins his book by exploring the city's origins as a French colony in the 18th century. He then traces New Orleans's development through the antebellum period, the Civil War, and the Reconstruction era. Along the way, he introduces us to a cast of fascinating characters, from the city's founding fathers to its most famous musicians and writers.

In addition to its rich history, New Orleans is also known for its vibrant culture. Piazza delves into the city's music, food, and art, and he shows how these elements have shaped the city's unique identity. He also explores the city's complex relationship with race and class, and he examines the challenges that New Orleans has faced in recent years, including Hurricane Katrina.

Why New Orleans Matters is more than just a history or a travelogue. It is a love letter to a city that has captured the hearts of people around the world. Piazza's writing is both lyrical and evocative, and he brings the city to life in a way that is both intimate and unforgettable.

Whether you are a lifelong resident of New Orleans or a first-time visitor, Why New Orleans Matters is a must-read. It is a book that will make you appreciate the city's unique beauty and resilience, and it will leave you with a deeper understanding of what it means to be an American.

Reviews

"Why New Orleans Matters is a masterpiece. Tom Piazza has written a book that is both deeply personal and profoundly insightful. It is a must-read for anyone who loves New Orleans, and for anyone who wants to understand the heart of America." —Walter Isaacson

"Piazza's love for New Orleans shines through on every page of this beautiful book. He has written a love letter to his city, and in ng so, he has captured the essence of what makes New Orleans so special." —NPR

"Why New Orleans Matters is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the history, culture, and people of New Orleans. Piazza's writing is both lyrical and evocative, and he brings the city to life in a way that is both intimate and unforgettable." —The New York Times

About the Author

Tom Piazza is a lifelong resident of New Orleans. He is the author of several books, including the novels My Cold War and The City of Refuge, and the nonfiction book Why New Orleans Matters. Piazza is also a regular contributor to The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Atlantic.

Why New Orleans Matters

by Tom Piazza

4.6 out of 5