From forgotten chapters of New York City history to holiday mysteries and the rediscovery of an overlooked Native American artist, these books offer readers a range of stories to explore. Whether uncovering political corruption on the Lower East Side, solving a festive fictional murder or discovering the life and work of a Cheyenne modernist, each title brings history, culture and storytelling to life in a distinctive way.
‘The Ritz With a Shvitz’: The Forgotten Hotel That Fell Victim to Tammany Hall’s Corruption
“The Ritz with a Shvitz” explores the rise and fall of Libby’s Hotel and Baths, a lavish 12-story, $3 million hotel built by entrepreneur Max Bernstein on Manhattan’s Lower East Side in 1926. Created as a luxury destination for the neighborhood’s Jewish community, the hotel lasted just four years before being demolished amid a predatory mortgage scheme and alleged corruption involving Tammany Hall politicians. Authors Shulamith Z. Berger and Jai Zion uncover the intrigue surrounding the hotel’s destruction, including the mysterious disappearance of Judge Joseph Force Crater. The book offers a revealing look at New York’s political corruption, real estate battles and Jewish immigrant life.
‘Murder at the Christmas Market’ Combines Holiday Cheer With a Cozy Mystery
Rosie A. Point brings festive fun and murder to the holiday season with “Murder at the Christmas Market,” the fifth installment in her bestselling Cranberry Creek Word Search Mystery series. Published by Adams Media for $15, the book features a Christmas market, a murdered Mrs. Claus and 50 word-search puzzles by Charles Timmerman to help readers crack the case. Blending puzzle-solving with a cozy whodunit, the book offers an entertaining holiday escape and a playful gift option for mystery fans, puzzle enthusiasts and readers looking for seasonal entertainment.
‘Dancing Warrior’ Explores the Life and Art of Cheyenne Painter Paul Flying Eagle Goodbear
“Dancing Warrior” tells the story of Cheyenne artist Paul Flying Eagle Goodbear and author Molly Hollenbach’s determined effort to uncover his life and legacy. Born in Oklahoma around the time of statehood, Goodbear was the grandson of Cheyenne Chief Turkey Legs and the great-great-grandson of Chief Whirlwind. He emerged in the 1940s as a Native American modernist whose work reflected Kiowa influences while developing a distinctive style. After serving in the Army during World War II, Goodbear continued his artistic journey despite racism and stereotypes. His surviving paintings remain preserved in major Southwest art museums.