Discovering Buffalo, New York Through Books: A Reading List
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City of Light by Lauren Belfer
City of Light by Lauren Belfer is a historical novel set in Buffalo during the early 1900s. The book explores the city’s booming industrial era and the tensions between the wealthy elite and working-class immigrants. Belfer weaves together a captivating story of love, power, and corruption against the backdrop of Buffalo’s iconic landmarks, including the Pan-American Exposition and Niagara Falls. This book is a must-read for anyone curious about Buffalo’s history and culture.
The Buffalo Creek Disaster by Gerald M. Stern
The Buffalo Creek Disaster by Gerald M. Stern is a non-fiction account of the 1972 flood that devastated the small town of Buffalo Creek, West Virginia. The flood was caused by a coal mining company’s negligence and resulted in the loss of 125 lives and the destruction of the entire town. Stern’s book explores the legal aftermath of the disaster and the fight for justice by the survivors. This book is a powerful reminder of the importance of corporate responsibility and the impact of natural disasters on communities.
The Nickel City by Scott R. Burnstein
The Nickel City by Scott R. Burnstein is a true crime book that delves into the history of organized crime in Buffalo, New York. Burnstein explores the city’s criminal underworld and its impact on the community from the early days of the Italian mafia to the rise of street gangs. This book offers a unique perspective on Buffalo’s history and sheds light on the city’s darker side.
Buffalo Lockjaw by Greg Ames
Buffalo Lockjaw by Greg Ames is a novel that traverses the complexities of family relationships and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Set in Buffalo, New York, the story follows protagonist James Fitzroy as he navigates his dysfunctional family, a failing marriage, and a career as a struggling writer. Ames captures the essence of Buffalo’s working-class neighborhoods and the city’s unique character, making it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the city through literature.
The Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler
The Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler is a novel that explores the racial tensions and divisions in a suburban neighborhood in Buffalo, New York. The story follows the lives of two families, one black and one white, as they navigate their relationships with each other and the community around them. Fowler’s vivid descriptions of Buffalo’s architecture and landscape add depth to the piece, making it an excellent read for anyone interested in the city’s history and culture.
