Decoding Manhattan: Island of Diagrams, Maps, and Graphics

by Antonis Antoniou, Steven Heller

Designer Antonis Antoniou and award-winning author Steven Heller’s Decoding Manhattan reveal the mysteries and folkways of New York City in an entertaining collection of graphic art.

The life and legend of New York City, from the size of its skyscrapers to the ways of its inhabitants, is vividly captured in this lively collection of more than 250 maps, cross sections, flowcharts, tables, board games, cartoons, infographics, and other unique diagrams spanning 150 years.

Superstars such as Saul Steinberg, Maira Kalman, Christoph Niemann, Roz Chast, and Milton Glaser butt up against the unsung heroes of the popular press in a book that is made not only for lovers of New York but also for anyone who enjoys or works with information design.

“The graphics in this book add rich layers to our understanding of Manhattan.” — Fast Company

Genres: New York, History, Nonfiction, Architecture, Art

240 pages, Hardcover

Published April 13, 2021

Reviews

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is laid out much like your own personal museum. Each page has an interesting graphic, often as a map of Manhattan (and downtown Manhattan) with a placard next to each providing context. As with any museum, there are a few neat pieces and a number that are less interesting, but a pretty interesting read overall.

[Dean · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful coffee table book, "Decoding Manhattan" contains a historical record of efforts made by artists, engineers and city planners to capture the complexity of New York City (including what's underground) in diagrams, maps and graphics. Enjoyable and imaginative.

My only complaint is that some of the depictions are so detailed, and the print so tiny, that they can be quite difficult to read. To be discernible, they would have to be, in some cases, two or three or even four times larger - which is impractical. However, most of the book is both accessible and fascinating - further proof that somehow, some way, New York City keeps on functioning.

[R.J. Gilmour · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating coffee table sized book that looks at the history of the Manhattan in how it has been represented over the years. Filled with lots of drawings, maps & photographs from the cities inception to the present day.

[Danette]

I love maps.

[Samira · Rating 2 out of 5]

eh, it was alright. felt like very surface level b I guess that's part of the schtick. Found some very interesting maps though.