The islands that form New York City are far more subtle and varied than the five that can be seen from the air. In this spectacular portrait of the great metropolis, renowned photographer Jake Rajs juxtaposes iconic views - the Empire State Building, the Hudson River skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge - with unheralded neighborhoods and hidden places throughout the five boroughs.

Pete Hamill's literary portrait perfectly complements Rajs's visual presentation. This lively and compelling view traces the history of the city from its beginnings as an Indian hunting and fishing ground to the early years of settlement by immigrants from all corners of the world to the numerous and overlapping islands that now make up the city as a whole.

First published in a deluxe edition in 1998, this unique presentation is now available to all who are eager to explore the city that fascinates the world.