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Dear New York
A breathtaking new book from the #1 bestselling author of Humans of New York and one of the great storytellers of our time―Dear New York is a love letter to the streets, stories, and souls that define the heart of the city and its people.
Creator of the global sensation “Humans of New York” and author of four #1 New York Times bestsellers, Brandon Stanton has shown us a unique side of our communities, our neighbors, and ourselves. Now, he takes us further and deeper than he’s ever gone before.
Opening with a deeply moving prologue that reads like a train ride through the city, the book expands into nearly five hundred full-color pages of portraits and stories from every corner of the city. With more than 75-percent of the photographs and stories in Dear New York having never been published before, there’s a new discovery on every page.
Embracing all five boroughs, Dear New York is a book filled with contradictions, yet brimming with life. It is an unprecedented portrait of the world’s greatest city, and a personal tribute to the people who provide its soul.
Creator of the global sensation “Humans of New York” and author of four #1 New York Times bestsellers, Brandon Stanton has shown us a unique side of our communities, our neighbors, and ourselves. Now, he takes us further and deeper than he’s ever gone before.
Opening with a deeply moving prologue that reads like a train ride through the city, the book expands into nearly five hundred full-color pages of portraits and stories from every corner of the city. With more than 75-percent of the photographs and stories in Dear New York having never been published before, there’s a new discovery on every page.
Embracing all five boroughs, Dear New York is a book filled with contradictions, yet brimming with life. It is an unprecedented portrait of the world’s greatest city, and a personal tribute to the people who provide its soul.
480 pages, Hardcover
Published October 7, 2025
About the author
Brandon Stanton
12 books788 followersBrandon Stanton graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in History. He traded bonds in Chicago for three years, before losing his job and moving to New York. In November of 2010, he started the photography blog Humans of New York. Today HONY is followed by nearly one million people, and is the fastest growing Arts and Humanities page on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
August 11, 2025
I have never been to New York, it's always been on my list. The city that has literally everything, right?
Well, picking up this book is like walking through the city. Brandon Stanton has a unique storytelling ability. The story starts in July of 2024 with a baby found in the sidewalk and it takes off from there. You can't help but flip through the pages, story after story of the uniqueness and honestly the sameness of the people who inhabit this city. The photos are gorgeous captioned sometimes with a quick quote and sometimes with a more thorough story. People of all ages, genders, race, professions - some just starting out, some successful, some down on their luck but all that contribute to making this city what it is.
I feel like you get a glimpse in to what it might be like to walk these streets. It is clear the author has a special talent in getting folks to share and capturing their personalities perfectly.
I never wanted to put it down! No matter where you are from, whether you have been to New York or not, you will find a story in this book that you will be able to relate to. I would highly recommend picking this one up!
Thank you to St Martins Press for this gifted copy. I will definitely treasure it.
Well, picking up this book is like walking through the city. Brandon Stanton has a unique storytelling ability. The story starts in July of 2024 with a baby found in the sidewalk and it takes off from there. You can't help but flip through the pages, story after story of the uniqueness and honestly the sameness of the people who inhabit this city. The photos are gorgeous captioned sometimes with a quick quote and sometimes with a more thorough story. People of all ages, genders, race, professions - some just starting out, some successful, some down on their luck but all that contribute to making this city what it is.
I feel like you get a glimpse in to what it might be like to walk these streets. It is clear the author has a special talent in getting folks to share and capturing their personalities perfectly.
I never wanted to put it down! No matter where you are from, whether you have been to New York or not, you will find a story in this book that you will be able to relate to. I would highly recommend picking this one up!
Thank you to St Martins Press for this gifted copy. I will definitely treasure it.
September 2, 2025
This is a coffee table style book, large, very heavy and many photos of people on the streets of New York. Along with the photos, there are statements from the people that are very short to very long about themselves. These statements captured their thoughts at the moments. Some are very sad. One is of a man who bought a Spider Man suit, after hearing children talk about him. He puts on the costume whenever he feels sad and then his mood changes to more confident, empowered one.
Some people talked about their time in prison, not getting along with their parents, or the closeness that they felt with their family, friends or group. A few made superficial comments and others told their life stories.
All the pictures of the people in this book were taken outdoors, that made me wonder what if the stories of the people indoor would be different. Some people are shut in, not able to get out, some are afraid of the world outside and never leave their inside spaces. Could that be a topic for a future book?
Some people talked about their time in prison, not getting along with their parents, or the closeness that they felt with their family, friends or group. A few made superficial comments and others told their life stories.
All the pictures of the people in this book were taken outdoors, that made me wonder what if the stories of the people indoor would be different. Some people are shut in, not able to get out, some are afraid of the world outside and never leave their inside spaces. Could that be a topic for a future book?
December 11, 2025
I love the range and variety of stories in this book, and the incredible vulnerability he manages to get from these total strangers. There's something so restorative in hearing this much honesty from people, whether it's joy, anger, sadness, bitterness, pleasure, love, or contempt. There's a reason that Humans of New York has endured as a project, and this book is a great showcase of why.
January 26, 2026
I always like reading these to see everyone’s life stories alongside their pictures. The foreword about the magic of New York was really well written.
December 15, 2025
Dear New York is the fourth photography book featuring portraits and stories of New Yorkers by Brandon Stanton, who started a photography blog called "Humans of New York" in 2010. His iconic blog ballooned and inspired his photography books Humans of New York, Humans of New York Stories, Humans, and now, Dear New York .
Stanton traverses the city of New York asking strangers for permission to take their portrait and for them to tell their story; it's a different kind of street photography than candid portraits taken at a distance, and so it reveals an intimate tapestry and personality of the city.
His prologue to this book is especially moving, and there are some personal stories in this book that are both truly tragic and inspiring. This is why you pick up books like this.
This particular book also comes at a time when the nation is a feeling a lot of division and tension, and this collection of images shines a spotlight on a US city that has exemplifies the diversity of this country.
It reveals how people are more alike than they are different, that they are flawed, have backstories, are fighters, survivors, and deserve second chances.
The images honor the individuals, and shine a spotlight on them; the book will likely have readers (viewers) taking a moment to pause and reflect on their own lives. Stanton’s passion for New York shines through with his most beautiful book yet. Bravo.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for my copy of Dear New York.
Stanton traverses the city of New York asking strangers for permission to take their portrait and for them to tell their story; it's a different kind of street photography than candid portraits taken at a distance, and so it reveals an intimate tapestry and personality of the city.
His prologue to this book is especially moving, and there are some personal stories in this book that are both truly tragic and inspiring. This is why you pick up books like this.
This particular book also comes at a time when the nation is a feeling a lot of division and tension, and this collection of images shines a spotlight on a US city that has exemplifies the diversity of this country.
It reveals how people are more alike than they are different, that they are flawed, have backstories, are fighters, survivors, and deserve second chances.
The images honor the individuals, and shine a spotlight on them; the book will likely have readers (viewers) taking a moment to pause and reflect on their own lives. Stanton’s passion for New York shines through with his most beautiful book yet. Bravo.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for my copy of Dear New York.
August 14, 2025
Despite the dull cover, there are quite a lot of interesting bits inside. Beautiful photographs and stories reside within. However, I found it wasn’t a book to read from front to back but more one to flip and follow the photos that called out. Also, as one who resides in the state of New York, a reminder that people found within these covers are in different areas of this beautiful state.
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January 20, 2026I think my toxic trait is that while reading this book, I would read the captions and go "this person is so stupid and wrong. why are we even platforming them without comment or critique". And of course this is like, not the point of Humans of New York. the point is to present things as they are and let people come to their own judgement. and yet.
January 10, 2026
An intricate and moving snapshot into New York City, Stanton does it again! I laughed, cried, and even researched some of the people or things mentioned in everyone's interviews. Clocking in at nearly 500 pages, I found myself 2 hours in and halfway through the book - time flies when you're so engrossed in living alongside these people.
October 19, 2025
New York has a beat and energy to city life unlike anywhere else I’ve been. It may not be for everyone and I’ve never lived in the city, but I love the energy. The diversity of city residents and the ubiquity of public transportation also means people from all walks of life and backgrounds see each more often than is true in most other places. There is a sense of community in this, even without talking or even making eye contact with the hundreds of people seen each day.
In the style Brandon Stanton has become known for through his Humans of New York photography series and books, DEAR NEW YORK, doesn’t shy away from any type of person. Rather, he shows the full range of New Yorkers through his stunning street photography portraits paired with quotes from each person featured.
DEAR NEW YORK, is a love letter to the city and its people. The book shares 475 pages of individuals’ stories and looks deeply not just at people’s faces, but into each unique life. This visual poetry and focus on humanity is deeply connecting and an antidote to our divided world in which we often see only one kind of face and enter echo chambers with like-minded people/online personas. This book is an antidote to that; you’ll find every type of person in these pages. Don’t read this book all at once though. There are far too many stories for that. Dip in and out. Connect, question, and savor.
Highly recommend picking this up, especially for anyone who feels connected to the city and people of New York. The intro alone should be required reading for everyone. The book in full is a brutally and unflinchingly honest look at the ups, downs, and oddities of life.
🥰 Thanks to StMartinsPress for the gifted hardcover early copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
In the style Brandon Stanton has become known for through his Humans of New York photography series and books, DEAR NEW YORK, doesn’t shy away from any type of person. Rather, he shows the full range of New Yorkers through his stunning street photography portraits paired with quotes from each person featured.
DEAR NEW YORK, is a love letter to the city and its people. The book shares 475 pages of individuals’ stories and looks deeply not just at people’s faces, but into each unique life. This visual poetry and focus on humanity is deeply connecting and an antidote to our divided world in which we often see only one kind of face and enter echo chambers with like-minded people/online personas. This book is an antidote to that; you’ll find every type of person in these pages. Don’t read this book all at once though. There are far too many stories for that. Dip in and out. Connect, question, and savor.
Highly recommend picking this up, especially for anyone who feels connected to the city and people of New York. The intro alone should be required reading for everyone. The book in full is a brutally and unflinchingly honest look at the ups, downs, and oddities of life.
🥰 Thanks to StMartinsPress for the gifted hardcover early copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 24, 2025
I wish I had more time with this gorgeous 475 page coffee table book but alas it has hundreds on the wait list at the library and must be returned.
For fans of the “Humans of New York” Instagram account - a portion of Brandon Stanton, street photographer’s collections and stories following Covid. I sadly missed the live exhibition at Grand Central Station last month.
You could spend hours looking and each photo and reading the stories behind each person. Some hopeful, some sad, some a little out there but all of us human.
For fans of the “Humans of New York” Instagram account - a portion of Brandon Stanton, street photographer’s collections and stories following Covid. I sadly missed the live exhibition at Grand Central Station last month.
You could spend hours looking and each photo and reading the stories behind each person. Some hopeful, some sad, some a little out there but all of us human.
January 22, 2026
Dear New York is the fourth photography book by Brandon Stanton that I have read. The book opens with a lengthy introduction by the author, which sets the stage for the stories of NYC residents that he photographed. He is a genius interviewer- for how does he extract these perfect sound bites that so capture each person's personality? This photo collection reminds me of a poem collection, for some will move you, while others don't, depending on your own background. My favorites include: Man ruminating on getting older (pg 24), couple that met in New Orleans (pg 32-34), older woman asking if she looks pretty (pg 53), new middle-aged couple (pg 58-59), father with goth child (pg 79), jazz mother (pg 125), guy who thinks he is a sex god (pg 128-131), involved dad (pg 134), sisters (pg 152), tour bus roadie (pg 181), Hurricane Harvie (pg 204), beach bag couple (pg 237), Ukrainian snow enthusiast (pg 359), church camp couple (pg 438), and face tattoo man (pg 474). For some essays, I did wonder how much some people may have elaborated (or straight-out lied) about their stories. It's hard to take some of the stories at face value, but that happens with everyone you meet- you never know at first. While I remember some of the pictures and stories from Stanton's Facebook page, many were new to me. This was another strong photography book, but I do have to say, the cover is very boring and doesn't represent what is found inside.
January 28, 2026
For fifteen years, this author has been working on and revisiting a project about the Humans of New York. He's changed, the readers have changed, and most importantly, New York has changed - is ever-changing. This book is Stanton's love letter to New York and it couldn't have come at a better time.
Stanton's work leaves me so raw, wanting to hug more people than I ever thought I would be willing to meet or come into contact with. New Yorkers, and people everywhere, all have a story to share. Even just a glimpse into someone's life can make the silly things like judgements and disagreements all melt away.
I think the Humans of New York project is endlessly valuable and I will continue to follow it to the end of its days.
Stanton's work leaves me so raw, wanting to hug more people than I ever thought I would be willing to meet or come into contact with. New Yorkers, and people everywhere, all have a story to share. Even just a glimpse into someone's life can make the silly things like judgements and disagreements all melt away.
I think the Humans of New York project is endlessly valuable and I will continue to follow it to the end of its days.
April 26, 2026
Like all the books in this series, there is such a wide range of stories included. From uplifting to heartbreaking to just plain weird. Stories of aging, racism, poverty, bad decisions. From people who are on top of the world to people who never got a fare shake. (Thinking of the speedy Gonzales junkie here). The intro itself could be an entire book. His descriptions of the city are spot on. And, I’m glad that little baby made it.
Ones that will probably stick with me: The guy who was a latch key kid and left alone all the time without even a tv.
“Thirteen, it’s just, a lot”
“The grumps are a small minority. But they’re vocal. Yes, the grumps are vocal.”
“When you regret something, what you’re saying is ‘I could’ve done it differently’ and no, you couldn’t have done it differently. Because it’s done. It’s done.”
“Electricity may have been cut off a couple times, but mama always came through”
“I just watched Casablanca for the 400th time…that’s enough. I don’t care what kind of bug is going around. I’m going to the movies”
“If you’d caught me yesterday I would have been angry and wanting to hit somebody, but luckily I mulched this morning”
Ones that will probably stick with me: The guy who was a latch key kid and left alone all the time without even a tv.
“Thirteen, it’s just, a lot”
“The grumps are a small minority. But they’re vocal. Yes, the grumps are vocal.”
“When you regret something, what you’re saying is ‘I could’ve done it differently’ and no, you couldn’t have done it differently. Because it’s done. It’s done.”
“Electricity may have been cut off a couple times, but mama always came through”
“I just watched Casablanca for the 400th time…that’s enough. I don’t care what kind of bug is going around. I’m going to the movies”
“If you’d caught me yesterday I would have been angry and wanting to hit somebody, but luckily I mulched this morning”
September 15, 2025
Thanks to Goodreads, this was a giveaway win!
My favorite coffee table books are ones that actually captivate me. The photos are crisp and the stories that accompany each snapshot are raw. Living away from NY now in adulthood, these stories always transport me back.
My favorite coffee table books are ones that actually captivate me. The photos are crisp and the stories that accompany each snapshot are raw. Living away from NY now in adulthood, these stories always transport me back.
October 29, 2025
Great photos and a fascinating glance at some of the people of New York.
January 9, 2026
humans are so fascinating. new york is like nowhere else.
January 24, 2026
A great, expansive collection of people from all walks of life, and all facets of human experience - health, wealth, love, religion. There are folks in all seasons of their lives, in times of romance and loss, climbing and falling, making peace with themselves and deciding to shake things up.
A hundred tiny slices of people's lives, which help to let you step outside yourself and gain some perspective on yours.
A hundred tiny slices of people's lives, which help to let you step outside yourself and gain some perspective on yours.
April 30, 2026
May Brandon never ever stop publishing these.
January 16, 2026
I've been following Humans of NY for as long as I can remember. And wow, this latest book does a beautiful job in highlighting what makes NYC special.
Telling the stories of so many humans, who are all incredibly diverse and different across looks, culture, ethnicity, backgrounds. It is what makes NYC home.
Telling the stories of so many humans, who are all incredibly diverse and different across looks, culture, ethnicity, backgrounds. It is what makes NYC home.
August 17, 2025
Lovely color photographs and stories from people of all walks of life. This was a very special book I feel lucky to have won!
March 14, 2026
I really like Brandon and humans of New York and this book is again good and interesting and thoughtful!
August 10, 2025
As soon as I opened this package, my teenage daughter grabbed it from me, flipped through its 475 pages in about 15 minutes, handed it back to me and said, "Mom, this book is cool."
Then I sat down, and over the course of 4 evenings, I read it.
This book is cool.
It also looks cool. So this is a good one for display and review.
If you enjoy reading posts about 𝘏𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘕𝘦𝘸 𝘠𝘰𝘳𝘬, then you'll enjoy this too. Each page is unique in its story. On some pages, the picture tells the story. Others range from a sentence or two to 3 pages long. I really connected with this experience of stories.
𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐨𝐫𝐤 is expected to release this October, so be sure to add this one to your TBR.
Then I sat down, and over the course of 4 evenings, I read it.
This book is cool.
It also looks cool. So this is a good one for display and review.
If you enjoy reading posts about 𝘏𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘕𝘦𝘸 𝘠𝘰𝘳𝘬, then you'll enjoy this too. Each page is unique in its story. On some pages, the picture tells the story. Others range from a sentence or two to 3 pages long. I really connected with this experience of stories.
𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐨𝐫𝐤 is expected to release this October, so be sure to add this one to your TBR.
December 23, 2025
So absolutely beautiful.
I've been a long time fan of Brandon's work and feel like I'd been waiting a very long time for this book. I made sure to savour it and only ever read about 20 pages at a time so that I could take the time to reflect on the stories.
Some stories are gut renchenly sad, some are delightfully happy.
Humans of New York will always be my favourite part of the Internet and the books will forever be on my book shelf.
I've been a long time fan of Brandon's work and feel like I'd been waiting a very long time for this book. I made sure to savour it and only ever read about 20 pages at a time so that I could take the time to reflect on the stories.
Some stories are gut renchenly sad, some are delightfully happy.
Humans of New York will always be my favourite part of the Internet and the books will forever be on my book shelf.
January 4, 2026
Mixed feelings about this book and the photos and stories in it. Not sure how accurate a portrayal or how ethical it is.
Quotes
“It did not capture that 51 percent of New Yorkers do not speak English at home.” Pg. 5
Contrast with information below
“Nearly 30% of New Yorkers speak a language other than English at home”
https://www.nyic.org/our-work/campaig...
“There are approximately 600 to 700 languages spoken in NYC and possibly more. According to the most recent Census figures, the top spoken languages overall in NYC are: Spanish, Chinese, Russian, French Creole, Bengali, Yiddish, French, Italian, Korean, respectively. Approximately 25 percent of all New Yorkers have limited-English proficiency and approximately 50 percent of New Yorkers speak a language other than English. Approximately 48 percent of immigrants are LEP. Nearly 61 percent of noncitizens are LEP. “
https://advocate.nyc.gov/reports/lang...
Jackson Heights-“One hundred sixty languages spoken in one neighborhood alone.” Pg. 7
Grand Central-“It is a meeting of two mighty rivers. Every day the Lexington Avenue line carries seven hundred thousand human souls: on a single line, more commuters than the cities of Chicago and Boston combined.” Pg. 8
Contrast that with the information below from Wikipedia
“Its average of 1.3 million daily riders is more than the total riderships of the transit systems of Chicago (772,900 weekday passengers), Boston (569,200 weekday passengers), and San Francisco (452,600 weekday passengers).”
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IRT_Lex...
“And nowhere are there more people, packed in a smaller space, than New York City.” Pg. 13
List of cities proper by population density shows 92 cities denser than NYC
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of...
Pg. 276 “Right after we met, I was in the bathroom taking a shit and she came in and sat on my lap. I was like no fucking way. That’s when I knew she was the one.”
Why someone would say that, and the author include it, other than to get attention, escapes me. Just crude and information I don’t need or want. Ditto on pgs. 128, 131, 184 and 293.
Pg. 310 “You’re ridiculous. You’re stopping random people, presumably to entertain yourself. You’re sitting in the middle of the street. I mean think about it. It’s pretty dumb.”
I do wonder how he gets these people to say the things they do. Does Brandon Stanton, the author/photographer, disclose to them that their words/stories and pictures will be used in a coffee table book and displayed on the walls of Grand Central Station? Does he have them sign waivers? What are the ramifications for them for revealing this information publicly? There are moral and ethical implications that should be considered. I’m not convinced they have been.
Pg. 454 “I’m homeless baby. I’m out here dying. So go ahead and get your shot. Get it. I’m only doing this because you’re giving me some bread. This is a performance. Sex work, baby. And if that’s not what you want, then I’ve got nothing for you.”
So did he pay these people whose pictures he took and whose words he shares? Gotta wonder…
Author Information/Interviews
https://www.cbsnews.com/video/brandon...
https://brandonstanton.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandon...
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HGzgyVA...
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/09/ny...
I would argue that this display that he paid for is advertising for his book.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-...
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=W51JqVk...
Quotes
“It did not capture that 51 percent of New Yorkers do not speak English at home.” Pg. 5
Contrast with information below
“Nearly 30% of New Yorkers speak a language other than English at home”
https://www.nyic.org/our-work/campaig...
“There are approximately 600 to 700 languages spoken in NYC and possibly more. According to the most recent Census figures, the top spoken languages overall in NYC are: Spanish, Chinese, Russian, French Creole, Bengali, Yiddish, French, Italian, Korean, respectively. Approximately 25 percent of all New Yorkers have limited-English proficiency and approximately 50 percent of New Yorkers speak a language other than English. Approximately 48 percent of immigrants are LEP. Nearly 61 percent of noncitizens are LEP. “
https://advocate.nyc.gov/reports/lang...
Jackson Heights-“One hundred sixty languages spoken in one neighborhood alone.” Pg. 7
Grand Central-“It is a meeting of two mighty rivers. Every day the Lexington Avenue line carries seven hundred thousand human souls: on a single line, more commuters than the cities of Chicago and Boston combined.” Pg. 8
Contrast that with the information below from Wikipedia
“Its average of 1.3 million daily riders is more than the total riderships of the transit systems of Chicago (772,900 weekday passengers), Boston (569,200 weekday passengers), and San Francisco (452,600 weekday passengers).”
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IRT_Lex...
“And nowhere are there more people, packed in a smaller space, than New York City.” Pg. 13
List of cities proper by population density shows 92 cities denser than NYC
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of...
Pg. 276 “Right after we met, I was in the bathroom taking a shit and she came in and sat on my lap. I was like no fucking way. That’s when I knew she was the one.”
Why someone would say that, and the author include it, other than to get attention, escapes me. Just crude and information I don’t need or want. Ditto on pgs. 128, 131, 184 and 293.
Pg. 310 “You’re ridiculous. You’re stopping random people, presumably to entertain yourself. You’re sitting in the middle of the street. I mean think about it. It’s pretty dumb.”
I do wonder how he gets these people to say the things they do. Does Brandon Stanton, the author/photographer, disclose to them that their words/stories and pictures will be used in a coffee table book and displayed on the walls of Grand Central Station? Does he have them sign waivers? What are the ramifications for them for revealing this information publicly? There are moral and ethical implications that should be considered. I’m not convinced they have been.
Pg. 454 “I’m homeless baby. I’m out here dying. So go ahead and get your shot. Get it. I’m only doing this because you’re giving me some bread. This is a performance. Sex work, baby. And if that’s not what you want, then I’ve got nothing for you.”
So did he pay these people whose pictures he took and whose words he shares? Gotta wonder…
Author Information/Interviews
https://www.cbsnews.com/video/brandon...
https://brandonstanton.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brandon...
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HGzgyVA...
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/09/ny...
I would argue that this display that he paid for is advertising for his book.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-...
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=W51JqVk...
October 27, 2025
For those who don't know, Brandon is a photographer, a chacham, and an artist.
He began as a street photographer, capturing portraits of everyday people in NYC. Over time, he started talking to them, publishing snippets of their words as captions. Eventually, the words became as important as the photographs. That’s what makes him a true artist: his ability to capture the human spirit through a beautiful curation of words and images.
He’s also a chacham in Ben Zoma’s sense: “Who is wise? One who learns from everyone” (Avos 4:1). I know this because I’VE learned so much from his work, and because only a deeply empathetic listener could consistently draw out such raw humanity and insight. I also know it indirectly from a firsthand source: my brother, who was once featured on HONY and told me how profound the interview process was.
This is the third book I’ve read by Brandon. It’s better than the original Humans of New York (2015) but not quite as good as Humans (2020). The quality of storytelling is just as strong, but Humans, which featured people from 40 countries, showcased a broader range of humanity.
Sadly, I know people who stopped following him this year because he used his platform to spotlight the Palestinian cause. While I agree that the way he did so was harmful to Jews (fueling antisemitic sentiment in the Western world) and woefully one-sided, I don’t believe it stemmed from antisemitism. Was it anti-Israel? Seemingly. Reckless, insensitive, and biased? Certainly. But Stanton himself is not antisemitic, and I’d challenge anyone to prove otherwise based on his long, respectful record of portraying Jews. When I emailed him to share my perspective, he replied with a thoughtful, personal message explaining his reasoning and thanking me for engaging in good faith. In my view, this blemish on an otherwise stellar body of work is an unfortunate case of an adam kasher (a good man) duped by anti-Israel propaganda.
I concluded my review of Humans by saying: “It is impossible to read this book without feeling a deep connection and abiding love for all mankind.” The same is true here.
He began as a street photographer, capturing portraits of everyday people in NYC. Over time, he started talking to them, publishing snippets of their words as captions. Eventually, the words became as important as the photographs. That’s what makes him a true artist: his ability to capture the human spirit through a beautiful curation of words and images.
He’s also a chacham in Ben Zoma’s sense: “Who is wise? One who learns from everyone” (Avos 4:1). I know this because I’VE learned so much from his work, and because only a deeply empathetic listener could consistently draw out such raw humanity and insight. I also know it indirectly from a firsthand source: my brother, who was once featured on HONY and told me how profound the interview process was.
This is the third book I’ve read by Brandon. It’s better than the original Humans of New York (2015) but not quite as good as Humans (2020). The quality of storytelling is just as strong, but Humans, which featured people from 40 countries, showcased a broader range of humanity.
Sadly, I know people who stopped following him this year because he used his platform to spotlight the Palestinian cause. While I agree that the way he did so was harmful to Jews (fueling antisemitic sentiment in the Western world) and woefully one-sided, I don’t believe it stemmed from antisemitism. Was it anti-Israel? Seemingly. Reckless, insensitive, and biased? Certainly. But Stanton himself is not antisemitic, and I’d challenge anyone to prove otherwise based on his long, respectful record of portraying Jews. When I emailed him to share my perspective, he replied with a thoughtful, personal message explaining his reasoning and thanking me for engaging in good faith. In my view, this blemish on an otherwise stellar body of work is an unfortunate case of an adam kasher (a good man) duped by anti-Israel propaganda.
I concluded my review of Humans by saying: “It is impossible to read this book without feeling a deep connection and abiding love for all mankind.” The same is true here.
December 26, 2025
Why did I not love this book as much as Stanton's Humans of New York or his book, Humans? I picked this one up at the library last week, excited for another glimpse into the people of NYC, with Stanton's fantastic photos. The book was good, with so many eye-opening comments from the people who were photographed, but wow, it felt extra-dark to me. So many of the folks who shared their comments were drug addicts, mentally ill, sexually perverse (yikes! the things they said!), and so, so angry! So many came from homes with abuse, neglect, and ugly stuff, and after a while I grew sad, just reading their comments. Do those people deserve to be heard? Of course! But it certainly was heavy to see and read so much of it.
Yes, there were some bright spots, with some kind, caring, nurturing relationships, and there were some people who were really trying to rise above difficult circumstances. I especially loved seeing the folks who had come to the United States, hoping to find a better life. Their stories were hard, and yet they were hopeful and grateful. There were plenty of neutral comments, too. And it was fun to see some Latter-Day Saint missionaries and read what one had to say about his rebellious background and his "Alma the Younger" change. Kind of odd in a book like this! But despite all the neutral and positive stuff, it felt heavily packed with gloomy, dark, frightening people and situations. Perhaps I wanted Stanton to go to a few other parts of the city, to show a different view. Is that me being a Pollyanna or a woman of privilege? I suppose so.
After saying all of this, I came away with a reminder that there are a lot of people in this world (well, right in NYC) who are suffering. I'm not sure why I was born into a home where I was wanted, loved, and nurtured. A home and community that were safe and beautiful. A chance for a good education. Plenty to eat and no worries about safety. The list goes on and on. I have much to be grateful for, and I want to respect and acknowledge those whose lives aren't as easy as mine has been.
Yes, there were some bright spots, with some kind, caring, nurturing relationships, and there were some people who were really trying to rise above difficult circumstances. I especially loved seeing the folks who had come to the United States, hoping to find a better life. Their stories were hard, and yet they were hopeful and grateful. There were plenty of neutral comments, too. And it was fun to see some Latter-Day Saint missionaries and read what one had to say about his rebellious background and his "Alma the Younger" change. Kind of odd in a book like this! But despite all the neutral and positive stuff, it felt heavily packed with gloomy, dark, frightening people and situations. Perhaps I wanted Stanton to go to a few other parts of the city, to show a different view. Is that me being a Pollyanna or a woman of privilege? I suppose so.
After saying all of this, I came away with a reminder that there are a lot of people in this world (well, right in NYC) who are suffering. I'm not sure why I was born into a home where I was wanted, loved, and nurtured. A home and community that were safe and beautiful. A chance for a good education. Plenty to eat and no worries about safety. The list goes on and on. I have much to be grateful for, and I want to respect and acknowledge those whose lives aren't as easy as mine has been.
August 20, 2025
“Just as one might dive among coral reefs to marvel at nature, one can come to New York City to marvel at humanity.”
Two things I love with abandon—New York City and the Georgia Bulldogs. So, supporting Brandon Stanton (a DGD and UGA graduate 🐾) and his latest endeavor, Dear New York, is a double treat for me!
I’ll be honest, it’s the shows and food and lights and the thrum of life that call me back to NYC time and again. I love vibrancy of the city. And yet, to boil the city down to those things alone is a grave disservice to its scope.
More than a decade ago, I came across Stanton’s @humansofNY. It’s a powerful platform that honors the breadth of human nature. And in doing so, it honors the true heart of the city.
With hundreds of new portraits and stories, Stanton’s inspiring new book—Dear New York—showcases the fullness of the city, even as he claims no book of any size can do such. From Flushing to Grand Central to Hudson Yards and beyond, Stanton knits together the broad expanse of experiences of everyday life found across the city into an extraordinary work brimming with hope and joy.
Intimate and personal, Dear New York is a love letter to humanity in all its iterations and a stunning portrait of New York in all its glory.
Many thanks to my friends at @stmartinspress for the free #gifted copy of this book.
Two things I love with abandon—New York City and the Georgia Bulldogs. So, supporting Brandon Stanton (a DGD and UGA graduate 🐾) and his latest endeavor, Dear New York, is a double treat for me!
I’ll be honest, it’s the shows and food and lights and the thrum of life that call me back to NYC time and again. I love vibrancy of the city. And yet, to boil the city down to those things alone is a grave disservice to its scope.
More than a decade ago, I came across Stanton’s @humansofNY. It’s a powerful platform that honors the breadth of human nature. And in doing so, it honors the true heart of the city.
With hundreds of new portraits and stories, Stanton’s inspiring new book—Dear New York—showcases the fullness of the city, even as he claims no book of any size can do such. From Flushing to Grand Central to Hudson Yards and beyond, Stanton knits together the broad expanse of experiences of everyday life found across the city into an extraordinary work brimming with hope and joy.
Intimate and personal, Dear New York is a love letter to humanity in all its iterations and a stunning portrait of New York in all its glory.
Many thanks to my friends at @stmartinspress for the free #gifted copy of this book.
August 29, 2025
Brandon Stanton created Humans of New York in 2010 as a photoblog, which later became a published book…then came the Stories edition in which he shared more of the dialogue from his interviews with his subjects. Next came Humans, where he traveled to more than forty countries and now Dear New York which is truly a love letter to the city and the people who live and work there.
I was thrilled to have an opportunity at a first look of this new book, which by the way is beautifully bound, a minimalist canvas cover binding up almost 500 pages of photos and stories of the city that never sleeps. Thank you St Martins Press for sharing an early copy with me!
In true fashion, Stanton tells dozens of stories with varying amounts of blurbs (some have a few words, some have a paragraph, and some Stanton allows the photo to speak for itself), but with one commonality, they will all inspire you to feel; to open your eyes to other perspectives, to pull at your heartstrings, and to visit familiar and unfamiliar pockets of this great city.
This will be a permanent edition to my library along with Stanton’s other works.
Dear New York is expected to be in stores October 7th
I was thrilled to have an opportunity at a first look of this new book, which by the way is beautifully bound, a minimalist canvas cover binding up almost 500 pages of photos and stories of the city that never sleeps. Thank you St Martins Press for sharing an early copy with me!
In true fashion, Stanton tells dozens of stories with varying amounts of blurbs (some have a few words, some have a paragraph, and some Stanton allows the photo to speak for itself), but with one commonality, they will all inspire you to feel; to open your eyes to other perspectives, to pull at your heartstrings, and to visit familiar and unfamiliar pockets of this great city.
This will be a permanent edition to my library along with Stanton’s other works.
Dear New York is expected to be in stores October 7th
August 27, 2025
I was ecstatic to receive a surprise mailing of Dear New York, and it’s a pleasure to share it. I think most of us are familiar with Brandon Stanton’s beloved work in the form of Humans of New York. His storytelling is unmatched as he highlights the people who are beating heart and soul of New York City.
Dear New York is “a love letter to the streets, stories, and souls that define the heart of the city and its people.” The prologue is not to be missed, as it truly sets the stage for what follows. It is noted that most of the content is new and not published before, and with close to 500 pages filled with color photos, it’s stunning to behold. Just the other day, I picked this one up and lost myself and sense of time for hours, thinking just one more story. I love New York City, and I know I’m not alone. What a loving and honorable tribute to the people.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Dear New York is “a love letter to the streets, stories, and souls that define the heart of the city and its people.” The prologue is not to be missed, as it truly sets the stage for what follows. It is noted that most of the content is new and not published before, and with close to 500 pages filled with color photos, it’s stunning to behold. Just the other day, I picked this one up and lost myself and sense of time for hours, thinking just one more story. I love New York City, and I know I’m not alone. What a loving and honorable tribute to the people.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
August 31, 2025
I was gifted a copy of this book by St. Martin’s Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
“I was overwhelmed by it: the realization that there was more of New York on this stretch of sidewalk than could be crammed into a book of any size. […] There is no frame large enough. You can never say: “This is New York.” There will always be one more thing, one more person, one more story that absolutely must be included.”
From the creator of Humans of New York comes a new collection — Dear New York.
NYC is one of my favourite places to travel to as it’s so lively and diverse. Not only is it a city that never sleeps, but it’s one that holds a story on every corner.
Stanton has captured the humanity of New York through the lens of everyday folk from all walks of life. In a time where the world can feel so tumultuous and uncertain, it’s nice to be able to find ways to connect to others — to share the simple joys of life, and to continue being empathetic.
“I was overwhelmed by it: the realization that there was more of New York on this stretch of sidewalk than could be crammed into a book of any size. […] There is no frame large enough. You can never say: “This is New York.” There will always be one more thing, one more person, one more story that absolutely must be included.”
From the creator of Humans of New York comes a new collection — Dear New York.
NYC is one of my favourite places to travel to as it’s so lively and diverse. Not only is it a city that never sleeps, but it’s one that holds a story on every corner.
Stanton has captured the humanity of New York through the lens of everyday folk from all walks of life. In a time where the world can feel so tumultuous and uncertain, it’s nice to be able to find ways to connect to others — to share the simple joys of life, and to continue being empathetic.
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