The Death and Life of Great American Cities
Jane Jacobs
15 people recommended it in 9 threads, 2011–2025.
1 commenter pushed back on it — worth reading the threads.
What people on Hacker News said
I think everyone who plans on living in a city should read this book.
I learned a lot about managing complexity from The Death and Life of Great American Cities which is about city planning!
This book completely changed how I view my city and other urban areas. I am now much more in-tune with my urban environment and understand how different aspects of it affect me emotionally.
Classic urbanist book that changed the way I see my city, and elegantly described so many things I didn't know I knew.
And yes, Jane Jacobs' "The Death and Life of Great American Cities" is definitely a must-read if you're interested in urban areas.
Where it comes up
- Summer Reading List 2017 · 6 recommendations
- Ask HN: Which book can attract anyone towards your field of study? 2022 · 2 recommendations
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- Ask HN: 2018 Summer Reading List? 2018 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What are your favorite books of all time, and why? 2017 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What books have made the biggest impact on your mental models? 2017 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What is the greatest book you've ever read? 2011 · 1 recommendation