Our Town: Race, Housing, and the Soul of Suburbia

by David L. Kirp, John P. Dwyer, Larry A. Rosenthal

An account of the legal battle to open up New Jersey's suburbs to the poor, looking at the views of lawyers on both sides of the controversy. It is a case study of judicial activism and its consequences and an analysis of suburban attitudes regarding race, class and property.

282 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Jacob Nieman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoughtful, empathetic book detailing the fight for affordable housing in New Jersey from just before the Mount Laurel decision to today. Worthwhile reading for anyone interested in land use, social justice, and housing.

[gnarlyhiker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read “Our Town” in 1997, so this is a re-read. The battle for fair housing is not a suburban thing, anymore. In 2016 it’s urban—read: gentrification (actually, long before ’16). And gentrification is all about fair and equal housing, no discrimination whatsoever, right? Oh, one small caveat: hey, if you cant afford it, not our problem.

The focus/subject is New Jersey, but the problem/fight is worldwide. Powerful read.

[David · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you're into dry, academic books this is the one for you. It details the legal battles to construct low income housing in Mt. Laurel and other New Jersey towns. It's well written but way too dry and academic (I know I've said that already but I cannot emphasize the point too much). If the subject matter interests you try "Show Me a Hero" by Lisa Belkin.