James O’Connell, Dining Out in Boston

October 12th, 2016
University Press of New England, 2016
James O’Connell’s deeply researched, copiously illustrated history of food establishments in Beantown was published in October 2016; the author gave several talks in prime venues locally, starting with a launch party at Newtonville Books on Oct. 23, 2016.
 
 

Dining Out in Boston is illuminated by over 50 illustrations and “close readings” of early menus and other culinary ephemera, making this new book an irresistible trove for foodies and students of Boston’s rise to greatness (from rather plain beginnings). James O’Connell also gives talks about his earlier (lavishly illustrated) books, The Hub’s Metropolis: Greater Boston’s Development from Railroad Suburbs to Smart Growth (MIT Press, 2013) and Becoming Cape Cod: Creating a Seaside Resort (UPNE, 2003). He’s an engaging presenter, often making use of PowerPoint for illustrative purposes, and really knows his material.

Praise for The Hub’s Metropolis (MIT Press, 2013)

“A riveting history of one of the nation’s most livable places—and a roadmap for how to keep it that way. James O’Connell’s wealth of knowledge about Greater Boston makes him the perfect guide for understanding this extraordinary metropolitan region, from celebrated urbanism to pastoral retreat.” —Anthony Flint, Fellow, Lincoln Institute of Land Policy

“A welcome addition to the venerable literature on patterns of suburban development around Boston. Comprehensive and readable … [makes] real connections between planning history and the world we move through every day.” —Ethan Carr, author of Wilderness by Design and Mission 66: Modernism and the National Park Dilemma

“James O’Connell’s comprehensive overview of sprawl and development in Metropolitan Boston over the past two centuries puts into context the significance and timeliness of smart growth and transit-oriented development in the region. He provides interesting examples of how sustainable growth could strengthen our region’s economic competitiveness, improve social equity, and address impacts of climate change.” —Marc Draisen, Executive Director, Metropolitan Area Planning Council