Book Rec of the Day 2/20/2007

The languid decadence of the Big Easy has inspired writers for decades, and this compilation showcases the best writing on the city from the best writers—a perfect read for Mardi Gras. Tennessee Williams, Truman Capote, Zora Neale Hurston, Walker Percy, and others offer their takes on the atmosphere, jazz, food, and people of one of America’s most seductive, sensuous, and resilient cities.

NEW ORLEANS STORIES: GREAT WRITERS ON THE CITY, edited by John Miller (Chronicle, 2004)