The Bitches Guide to New York City - Stacy Conis, Brittany St. Wells

The title of this book says it all and, as the authors write at the beginning of the book in a section titled “A Special Message”, it shouldn’t be taken completely seriously. In fact, if you’re looking for a tour guide of New York City that tells of all the places that a tourist should visit then this is not the book for you. Also, if you are someone who is going to clutch your pearls at the thought of one-night stands and hook-ups then you should just pass right over this little gem. I am not someone interested in these things or even in drinking copious amounts of alcohol but when I saw the title of the book I had to read it and found it more humorous than anything else. I’m also sure that if this is your type of lifestyle then you will find this book very useful.

                The two ladies who researched and wrote The Bitches Guide to New York City have within these pages provided a look at the best places to drink, eat, find men and shop. They live in the city so they know all of the secret places to go and they provide throughout the book little tips that an outsider may not be aware of. For example, if an empty subway car comes along, make sure to check and see if a homeless person has taken up residence in it and avoid it if possible if this has happened. I would have never thought of this as being something possible. They also mention a nifty little secret door in a phonebooth that is in a restaurant that leads to a speakeasy-like establishment with a strictly enforced no kissing policy. It’s these sorts of little nuggets that make this not only an interesting little guide book but also an amusing look into the behind the scenes night life that most tourists will never see.

                At only ninety-four pages, this is a quick and amusing read. As for being a guide book, it seems like a great one for party girls/guys who care more about their shoes (yes, they mention the famous Louboutin shoe store) than about world issues but that’s what makes this fun to read. I’m probably never going to New York City but I loved reading about these two ladies’ adventures while researching for this book. In fact, maybe they should write a book about just that subject.

                I read this in digital form and it worked well. I like the party vibe of the cover which matches the subject material perfectly.