DEAR NEW YORK
By Brandon Stanton
Publisher: St. Martin's
The photographer and author of “Humans of New York” highlights people and places in the five boroughs of New York City.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Brandon Stanton's latest opus, "Dear New York," is yet another installment in his ongoing series of photographic love letters to the city that never sleeps. Scheduled for release on October 7, 2025, this 480-page tome purports to offer a fresh perspective on New York City's inhabitants, featuring over 75% previously unpublished photographs and stories. ([barnesandnoble.com](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dear-new-york-brandon-stanton/1146969148?utm_source=openai))
Stanton's modus operandi remains unchanged: candid portraits accompanied by snippets of personal narratives. While this formula has garnered widespread acclaim in the past, one must question whether it continues to offer new insights or merely retreads familiar ground. The book's prologue, described as a "deeply moving" journey through the city, sets an ambitious tone. However, without substantial deviation from Stanton's established style, it risks becoming a redundant exercise. ([guardianbookshop.com](https://guardianbookshop.com/dear-new-york-9781035085163/?utm_source=openai))
Critics have noted that the collection oscillates between celebratory and melancholic tones, capturing the city's diverse emotional landscape. Yet, this juxtaposition is hardly groundbreaking. The inclusion of stories like that of Myles Smutney, founder of the Free Store Project, aims to highlight post-pandemic resilience but may come across as tokenistic rather than revelatory. ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/brandon-stanton/dear-new-york/?utm_source=openai))
The accompanying Grand Central Terminal exhibition, where Stanton replaced all advertisements with his photographs, is a commendable endeavor. However, the financial implications—reportedly depleting his life savings—raise questions about the sustainability and practicality of such grand gestures. ([news.artnet.com](https://news.artnet.com/art-world/humans-of-new-york-grand-central-2698047?utm_source=openai))
In summary, "Dear New York" offers more of the same from Stanton: well-composed photographs paired with brief personal anecdotes. While it may appeal to those unfamiliar with his previous work, longtime followers might find it lacking in innovation. The book serves as a competent, albeit predictable, homage to New York City's inhabitants.
Recommendation: Read with caution.
written on: 10/16/2025