Best Books About Philadelphia

A groundbreaking sociological study, The Philadelphia Negro examines African Americans in Philadelphia and their social problems. Written by W. E. B. Du Bois and published in 1899, it's the first example of sociology as a statistically based social science, and remains a classic work to this day. It's a must-read for anyone interested in sociology or African American studies.

Sisters Rose and Maggie are polar opposites, except for their love of shoes. Rose is a high-powered attorney with a secret passion for romance novels, while drop-dead gorgeous Maggie dreams of fame and fortune. After a childhood tragedy, they struggle to connect until they realize they have more in common than they thought. Watch as they navigate their differences to eventually make peace with their most intimate enemies, each other.

"Third and Indiana" takes readers on a journey through the treacherous drug wars of a Philadelphia neighborhood known as the Badlands. The violence is pervasive, and each death is marked by a chalk outline on the street. Ofelia Santoro searches these streets for her son Gabriel, who has become involved with the brutal drug dealers. Steve Lopez's fast-moving novel is a gritty portrayal of America's urban wastelands and the humanity that may save them. With strong, cinematic imagery and a powerful message, "Third and Indiana" is a must-read for fans of documentary-style novels.

Amid the late summer of 1793, Philadelphia streets are abuzz with talks of fever and mosquitoes. The fatalities are mounting, among them the serving girl at the Cook Coffeehouse. Mattie Cook, a fourteen-year-old girl, is left grieving, but with new customers filling up the family's coffee shop, she must focus on building the business and ignoring the fever. However, as the fever starts hitting closer to home, Mattie must fight to survive over building her family's empire.

This biography tells the captivating story of Dr. Mütter, a groundbreaking plastic surgeon who revolutionized American medicine during the mid-nineteenth century. Mütter pioneered the use of anesthesia, sterilization of surgical tools, and a compassionate approach to helping the severely deformed. His story is brought to life by award-winning writer Cristin O’Keefe Aptowicz, who chronicles Mütter’s efforts to establish Philadelphia as a global mecca for medical innovation, despite resistance from rivals. Dr. Mütter's Marvels is a riveting tale of nineteenth-century medicine and the fascinating life of a medical innovator.

Discover the fascinating life of one of America's founding fathers through his own words. This autobiography (also known as his Memoirs) was written by Benjamin Franklin from 1771 to 1790 and has since become one of the most famous and influential examples of the genre. Divided into four parts, Franklin's account reflects on different periods of his life, from his childhood to his rise as a successful printer, scientist, and politician. Don't miss out on this timeless American classic.

Discover the untold story of poor black women in Philadelphia who fought for government services and benefits in the postwar era. Lisa Levenstein's A Movement Without Marches reframes debates surrounding African American poverty and the political struggles that led to urban crises. This eye-opening book sheds light on the constraints and opposition these women faced in their quest for social justice and equality.

An endearing yet distorted perspective is showcased in this enchanting novel as we follow Pat, a man on a mission to become physically fit and emotionally literate to win back his estranged wife. After spending time in a mental health facility, and now out, everything feels off, and no one will talk to him about his wife. The story takes us on a comedic journey that promises to keep readers entertained and captivated.