Are you ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and rich history of New Orleans? Look no further than this curated list of the 20 best books about the Big Easy. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or simply looking for a captivating read, these books on New Orleans will transport you to the heart of the city. From captivating memoirs to gripping historical fiction, this list has something for every book lover eager to explore the enchanting world of New Orleans.
The Yellow House by Sarah M. Broom is a compelling memoir that delves into the author’s family history and their connection to their home in New Orleans. Broom vividly captures the vibrant and complex essence of the city, painting a rich portrait of the place she calls home. The book explores the impact of Hurricane Katrina on the city and Broom’s family, as well as the broader social and racial dynamics at play in New Orleans. Through lyrical prose and powerful storytelling, Broom weaves together a deeply personal narrative that also serves as a broader exploration of the history and culture of the city. This evocative and thought-provoking book about New Orleans is a must-read for anyone interested in the city’s rich tapestry of life, history, and community.
Nine Lives: Mystery, Magic, Death, and Life in New Orleans
by Dan Baum
Nine Lives is a captivating book about New Orleans that delves into the city’s rich history and culture through the lives of nine individuals. Dan Baum weaves together their stories, from a voodoo priestess to a political activist, highlighting the city’s mystique, resilience, and the impact of Hurricane Katrina. The book offers a deep and personal look at the complex and vibrant fabric of this unique city, known for its book on New Orleans culture, music, and traditions. With a compelling narrative that combines mystery, magic, death, and life, Nine Lives offers an intimate and nuanced portrayal of New Orleans that will captivate readers and transport them to the heart of the city’s soul.
The Beautiful Struggle: A Father, Two Sons, and an Unlikely Road to Manhood
by Ta-Nehisi Coates
The Beautiful Struggle: A Father, Two Sons, and an Unlikely Road to Manhood by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a poignant memoir that delves into the author’s upbringing in a vibrant and tumultuous urban setting. Set in the city of New Orleans, the book vividly portrays the challenges and triumphs of Coates and his family as they navigate the complexities of life in a city filled with rich cultural heritage and social disparities. Through his powerful storytelling, Coates offers a raw and honest portrayal of his experiences growing up in a city that is often characterized by its resilience and struggle. The book provides a compelling insight into the dynamics of family, race, and community, making it a captivating read for anyone interested in the vibrant tapestry of urban life.
The Axeman’s Jazz by Ray Celestin is a captivating historical crime novel set in the vibrant and atmospheric city of New Orleans. This gripping book on New Orleans takes readers back to the early 20th century, where a series of brutal murders terrorize the city. As the citizens of the Crescent City live in fear, a diverse group of characters including a detective, a journalist, and a jazz musician, come together to solve the case. The novel skillfully weaves together the city’s rich cultural tapestry, from its sultry jazz clubs to its seedy underworld, painting a vivid picture of New Orleans in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. With its blend of mystery, history, and music, this book about New Orleans is a must-read for anyone who loves a good crime story and is fascinated by the unique charm of the Big Easy.
The Feast of All Saints by Anne Rice is a captivating book on New Orleans that delves into the complex social dynamics of the city’s Creole community in the 19th century. Set in the vibrant and enigmatic backdrop of the crescent city, the novel follows the lives of free people of color and their struggles for identity and acceptance in a society marked by racial and class divisions. Through rich and vivid storytelling, Rice paints a vivid picture of the unique culture, traditions, and challenges faced by the inhabitants of this city of the crescent. As the characters navigate love, ambition, and the pursuit of freedom, readers are immersed in a world filled with passion, conflict, and the enduring spirit of New Orleans.
The Last Madam: A Life in the New Orleans Underworld
by Christine Wiltz
The Last Madam: A Life in the New Orleans Underworld by Christine Wiltz is a captivating non-fiction book that delves into the fascinating history of New Orleans’ red-light district. The book follows the life of Norma Wallace, the infamous madam who ran a successful brothel in the city for decades. Wiltz provides a vivid portrayal of the underworld of New Orleans, painting a colorful picture of the city’s seedy past and its larger-than-life characters. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the author brings to life the vibrant and often dangerous world of the New Orleans underworld. The Last Madam offers readers a unique and immersive look into the history of the city, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the book about New Orleans.
The Awakening by Kate Chopin is a captivating book on New Orleans that follows the story of Edna Pontellier, a woman who discovers her own desires and independence in the stifling society of the late 19th century. Set in the lush and atmospheric backdrop of the cultural city of New Orleans, the novel explores themes of societal expectations, women’s rights, and the search for individual identity. As Edna navigates her own awakening, she finds herself torn between her roles as a wife and mother and her own desires for freedom and self-expression. Chopin’s evocative prose and vivid portrayal of the city of New Orleans bring the story to life, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a thought-provoking and beautifully written book about New Orleans.
The World That Made New Orleans: From Spanish Silver to Congo Square
by Ned Sublette
The World That Made New Orleans: From Spanish Silver to Congo Square by Ned Sublette is a compelling exploration of the history and cultural heritage of the vibrant city of New Orleans. This insightful book delves into the diverse influences that shaped the unique character of the city, from the influx of Spanish silver to the vibrant rhythms of Congo Square. Sublette skillfully weaves together the threads of history, music, and economics to paint a vivid portrait of the world that gave rise to the captivating city of New Orleans. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, this book offers a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of influences that have contributed to the city’s distinct identity. A must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this iconic city, The World That Made New Orleans is an essential addition to the library of any enthusiast of the ‘Crescent City’.
The Witching Hour by Anne Rice is a captivating novel that immerses readers in the enchanting atmosphere of the Crescent City, a fascinating setting that is almost a character in itself. The story revolves around the Mayfair family, a powerful and mysterious dynasty with a long history of witchcraft and supernatural occurrences. As the narrative unfolds, secrets and forbidden knowledge are unearthed, weaving an intricate tale of dark forces and family legacies. Rice’s rich and vivid prose brings the book to life, drawing readers into a world of magic, intrigue, and the allure of the occult. The novel is a spellbinding exploration of the occult and the city of New Orleans, making it a must-read for anyone fascinated by the mystical and the enigmatic.
The Moviegoer is a remarkable book about New Orleans written by Walker Percy. It tells the story of Binx Bolling, a young stockbroker who is on a quest for meaning and purpose in his life. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant and enigmatic city of New Orleans, the novel explores Binx’s inner struggles and existential crisis as he grapples with the monotony of his everyday life. Percy’s evocative prose captures the essence of the city, from its colorful streets to its rich culture, making it a character in its own right. The novel delves into themes of alienation, identity, and the search for authenticity, making it a timeless and thought-provoking read. The Moviegoer is a captivating and introspective journey that offers a unique perspective on the allure and complexities of New Orleans.
The Sound of Building Coffins is a captivating book about New Orleans that immerses readers in the rich and vibrant atmosphere of the city. Louis Maistros weaves a haunting and lyrical tale set in the early 20th century, following the life of a young man named Sidney, who becomes entangled in a web of love, loss, and violence. The novel beautifully captures the essence of the city of New Orleans, its music, its culture, and its history, while also exploring themes of redemption and the human experience. Maistros’s evocative prose and vivid storytelling paint a vivid picture of a bygone era, making The Sound of Building Coffins a must-read for anyone who loves a compelling historical fiction and a book on New Orleans.
The Yellow Wallpaper is a chilling and thought-provoking novella by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. The story follows a woman who is confined to a room in a secluded mansion in order to rest and recover from a “temporary nervous depression.” As she spends more time in the room, she becomes obsessed with the wallpaper and begins to see disturbing patterns and figures within it. The protagonist’s mental state deteriorates as she becomes increasingly fixated on the wallpaper, leading to a shocking and unsettling conclusion. The novella is a powerful exploration of the treatment of women’s mental health in the 19th century and the oppressive nature of the patriarchal society. The eerie and suspenseful narrative will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Long-Legged House by Wendell Berry is a captivating book about New Orleans that delves into the complexities of family, place, and the passage of time. Set in the heart of the vibrant city, the book follows the author’s experiences as he navigates the rich history and culture of New Orleans. Through lyrical prose and poignant reflections, Berry paints a vivid portrait of the city, weaving together personal anecdotes and observations about the people and the landscape. The Long-Legged House offers readers a deep and intimate exploration of the essence of New Orleans, capturing the spirit and essence of the city in a way that is both timeless and deeply evocative. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newcomer to the world of Southern literature, this book is sure to enchant and transport you to the heart of the enchanting city.
The Kingfish and His Realm: The Life and Times of Huey P. Long
by William Ivy Hair
The Kingfish and His Realm: The Life and Times of Huey P. Long by William Ivy Hair is a captivating book about New Orleans that delves into the controversial and charismatic political career of the infamous Louisiana governor and senator, Huey P. Long. Hair’s meticulously researched biography provides a fascinating glimpse into the tumultuous world of Louisiana politics during the early 20th century, as well as the larger-than-life persona of Long himself. Through vivid storytelling and deep historical insight, Hair paints a vivid portrait of the man known as “The Kingfish” and his impact on the city of New Orleans and the state of Louisiana. This compelling narrative offers readers a rich understanding of the complex and dynamic world of southern politics, making it a must-read for history buffs and anyone intrigued by the enigmatic allure of the book on New Orleans.
The Glass Rainbow by James Lee Burke is a gripping and atmospheric book on New Orleans. In this crime thriller, protagonist Dave Robicheaux, a detective with a haunted past, finds himself entangled in a web of corruption, violence, and a ruthless serial killer. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant and tumultuous city, the novel delves deep into the underbelly of New Orleans, portraying its rich culture and complex social dynamics. As Robicheaux races against time to unravel the mystery and bring the killer to justice, he navigates the city’s murky alleys and sweltering streets, where danger lurks at every turn. With its vivid imagery and intense storytelling, The Glass Rainbow offers a compelling and immersive exploration of the dark side of the ‘Crescent City’.
The Great Deluge: Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast
by Douglas Brinkley
The Great Deluge by Douglas Brinkley is a gripping account of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. This compelling book on New Orleans provides a comprehensive and harrowing portrayal of the catastrophic storm that ravaged the city and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Brinkley’s narrative weaves together personal stories and government failures, shedding light on the human suffering and bureaucratic mishandling in the aftermath of the disaster. Through meticulous research and powerful storytelling, the author paints a vivid picture of the resilience and tragedy experienced by the people of the Crescent City. The Great Deluge is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the profound impact of this natural disaster on the vibrant and historic city of New Orleans.
The French Quarter: An Informal History of the New Orleans Underworld
by Herbert Asbury
The French Quarter: An Informal History of the New Orleans Underworld by Herbert Asbury is a captivating book on New Orleans that delves into the colorful and often scandalous history of the city’s underworld. Asbury takes readers on a journey through the book about New Orleans, showcasing the city’s notorious characters, from pirates and prostitutes to gamblers and gangsters. With vivid storytelling and meticulous research, the author paints a vivid picture of the illicit activities and larger-than-life personalities that have shaped the New Orleans book over the centuries. This book on New Orleans is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the city’s rich and sometimes sordid past, offering a unique glimpse into the hidden history of one of America’s most enigmatic cities.
A Confederacy of Dunces is a comedic novel set in the vibrant and eccentric city of New Orleans. The story follows the misadventures of Ignatius J. Reilly, a larger-than-life character who is both brilliant and bumbling. As Ignatius navigates the colorful streets of the city, he encounters a cast of equally eccentric characters, leading to hilarious and chaotic situations. John Kennedy Toole’s novel is a beloved classic that captures the spirit and quirkiness of the ‘Big Easy’. With its vivid portrayal of the city and its unforgettable characters, this book about New Orleans is a must-read for anyone looking for a humorous and insightful glimpse into the unique culture of the city.
Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice is a captivating book on New Orleans that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the dark and alluring world of vampires. Set in the atmospheric backdrop of the historic city, the story follows the immortal Louis as he recounts his extraordinary life to a journalist. Through Louis’ enthralling narrative, readers are drawn into a world of decadence, despair, and eternal love. The book about New Orleans explores themes of morality, desire, and the complexities of immortality, all set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of the city. With richly detailed prose and unforgettable characters, Interview with the Vampire is a mesmerizing and evocative New Orleans book that will leave readers spellbound.
Let the Dead Bury Their Dead by Randall Kenan is a captivating book about New Orleans that weaves together the lives of various characters in the small town of Tims Creek, North Carolina. The novel explores themes of race, sexuality, and the supernatural as it delves into the interconnected stories of the town’s residents. Kenan’s lyrical prose and vivid storytelling bring to life the rich cultural tapestry of the Southern setting, creating a haunting and immersive reading experience. With its evocative portrayal of small-town life and its exploration of the complexities of human relationships, Let the Dead Bury Their Dead is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and atmospheric book on New Orleans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about New Orleans offer a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history, culture, and unique atmosphere. From memoirs to historical fiction, these books provide an in-depth look at the vibrant and diverse city of New Orleans. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, these books are sure to deepen your appreciation for this enchanting city.
Which New Orleans book is best?
The best book on New Orleans can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about New Orleans?
For those looking to learn about New Orleans, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of New Orleans are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best New Orleans books of all time?
Choosing the best New Orleans books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
