The Story of Manhattan

"The Story of Manhattan" by Charles Hemstreet is a historical narrative that recounts the evolution of New York City from a largely uninhabited wild island to a vibrant urban center. Presented as a blend of information and storytelling, the book begins in 1609, vividly portraying Manhattan's unspoiled landscape and the Native American tribes who lived there. It describes Henry Hudson's exploration aboard the "Half Moon" and his interactions with the original inhabitants, suggesting the future shift that Hudson's discovery would bring to the island through colonization and change. The story invites readers to reflect on Manhattan’s origins and the significant historical turning points that shaped, developed, and molded the city.