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Higher

A Historic Race to the Sky and the Making of a City

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Higher

By: Neal Bascomb
Narrated by: Richard M. Davidson
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About this listen

This riveting, true account of the 1929 race to build New York City's tallest skyscraper evokes the glory of an exciting time long past.

The Roaring Twenties were all about ambition, and New York embodied this mentality more than any other place in the world. In the spirit of the times, Walter Chrysler (of the Chrysler Building) and young financier George Ohrstrom (of the Manhattan Bank Building) competed to erect a structure that would reach to the skies. Behind it all were two brilliant architects, two men with a common past, but very different visions for the future.

Every bit as riveting as the best fiction, Higher takes fascinating characters and throws them into an extraordinary setting. The result is an unforgettable story filled with rich anecdotes and astounding feats.

©2003 Neal Bascomb (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC
Americas Architecture Education Higher & Continuing Education State & Local United States New York

Critic reviews

"Bascomb's book is nicely rounded, exploring the finances and logistics of skyscraper building, from acquiring the land to riveting the steel; the benefits and drawbacks of height; and the personalities of the builders - all as he ratchets up the tension of the race." (Booklist)
"As a builder of perhaps more skyscrapers than anyone, I know a lot about them; yet Neal's book is very informative. This is a great and fascinating read for anyone interested in architecture, history, and New York City." (Donald J. Trump)

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