Great Chicago Stories: Portraits and Stories

by Tom Maday, Sam Landers, Richard M. Daley (Introduction)

Great Chicago Stories is a collection of favorite Chicago stories and companion black & white photographic portraits of sixty of the city's notables. The book provides, in words and pictures, a modern portrait of Chicago that extends well beyond the city's well-worn stereotypes. Chicagoans past and present featured in the book include Studs Terkel, Roger Ebert, Sara Paretsky, Jesse Jackson, Daryl Hannah, Koko Taylor, Joe Mantegna, Buddy Guy, David Mamet, and poet Gwendolyn Brooks, among others. After being out of print for more than a year, the best-selling book, featuring a new introduction by Mayor Richard M. Daley, is again available. Available in hardcover and softcover.

222 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1994

Reviews

[Harron68 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars from a biased Chicago-born non-celeb! The book has varied tales of their lives in Chi from the local famous to the well known celebs. I was skeptical about what is, as a hardcover, an "artsy" coffee table collection. I read a few pieces (they're short) and was drawn in by the wide range of interviewees.
I say give it a try. Chi isn't N.Y. or L.A. We have big shoulders and, sadly these days, big waistlines too. That should prove we're food lovers and helpful to strangers.

[Meg Koch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short vignettes from multiple Chicago residents. Interesting and fun reading. Beautiful photographs.

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

this one has already made me feel nostalgia for chicago which is odd since i've only lived here like two and a half years. the pics and stories combined are delightful. some celebs, some regular folks. short enough stories for my attention span. i felt like i was sitting around with a bunch of friends talking about chicago.