Humans of New York

by Brandon Stanton
Humans of New York cover
Good Books rating 4.58
Art, Design, and Photography
Buy online
Waterstones
Hardback • £25.00–£35.00
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 9940
  • Added: 2026-01-04
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9781509802234
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2015-01-29
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

Humans of New York is a captivating celebration of individuality and the spirit of New York City, brought to life through the lens of photographer Brandon Stanton. Initially an ambitious project to create a photographic census of the city, Stanton's work evolved into a beloved blog featuring portraits of New Yorkers alongside their stories, gathering millions of devoted followers. The book expands on this project with a stunning collection of 400 color photos, including exclusive portraits and new stories, all presented in a distinctive vellum jacket. It's a tribute to the breathtaking scope of humanity that will appeal to anyone interested in the diverse and vibrant lives of New Yorkers. Stanton's journey across the city, covering thousands of miles on foot, resulted in a vibrant blog that has grown into a phenomenon. Humans of New York is not just a collection of photographs but a testament to the power of storytelling and the beauty of human connection. The book is a must-read for those drawn to the outsized personalities of New York and anyone who appreciates the rich tapestry of human experiences.

Reviews
Weather Wax Report Blog · 2018-01-18
fascinating 4.50

The book is highly recommended for anyone interested in people and their everyday lives. It offers a unique and sometimes weird but fascinating glimpse into the lives of New Yorkers.

This reviewer found Humans of New York to be a captivating read that they highly recommend to anyone with an interest in people and their daily experiences. They noted that the book might seem a bit weird at times, but it's this uniqueness that makes it so fascinating. The variety of people and their stories captured in the book provides a rich tapestry of life in New York City. They appreciated how the book offers a glimpse into the lives of others, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    I really, really recommend this book to anyone with the vaguest interest in 'people' and their every day lives.

    It might be kind of weird, but the variety of people and their stories is what makes it so fascinating.

    It's a perfect book to check out during some summer leisure.

WordPress Blog (clsiewert) · 2013-12-25
moving 4.75

The book is a moving collection that evokes a range of emotions, from laughter to compassion, through its powerful images and stories. It is a testament to the beauty and complexity of everyday lives.

This reviewer highlighted how Humans of New York has a profound impact on its readers. They mentioned that almost every day, at least one of the posts from the book moves them, whether it's with laughter, fondness, or compassion. The images are fabulous, but it's the combination of the photographs and the stories that makes the book so impactful. They believe it's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the diverse experiences of people in New York City.

Quick quotes

    Almost every day, at least one of his HONY posts move me, whether it's with laughter, fondness, or compassion.

    The images remain fabulous, but the stories behind them are what truly make this book special.

    It's a perspective check on all our lives, especially on your own hardships.

Goodreads · 2013-10-15
inspiring 4.50

The book can be read quickly but is worth revisiting to appreciate the depth of the subjects' stories and the stunning photographs. The images and anecdotes together create a rich tapestry of human experiences.

This reviewer found that Humans of New York is a book that can be enjoyed in one sitting but truly shines when revisited. The photographs are stunning, capturing the essence of the subjects in a way that makes them feel familiar and relatable. The accompanying stories add layers of depth, making each portrait a window into a unique life. They appreciated how the book celebrates the diversity and resilience of the human spirit, making it a compelling read that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    Humans of New York can be read easily in one day but warrants a look back to study the faces and character of Stanton's subjects.

    My favorite part is the variety of people and their stories.

    The images remain fabulous, but the stories behind them are what truly make this book special.

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