Archipelago New York by Thomas Halaczinsky is a photographic and literary log book unravels the mysteries of more than seventy islands dotting the sea from New York Harbor at the mouth of the Hudson to Fishers Island Sound. Documentary filmmaker and writer Thomas Halaczinsky's course follows the route of Adriaen Block, the first European who in 1614 sailed and mapped this area. On old marine charts, these islands have curious-sounding names such as Money Island, Pot Island, and Rats Island, while names such as Rockaway, Jamaica Bay, and Montauk speak of the indigenous people who once inhabited the land. Rooted in history, local tales are interwoven with current themes such as climate change and wrapped in the narrative of sailing in quest of a sense of place.

Archipelago New York is a stunning travel log of the waters and islands of New York Harbor, which so few people in New York City seem to forget exist. I loved that he used more than just his photographs and thoughts on his travels. He also used maps and information on the history of the area to enhance the journey. I loved getting a look at islands that I might never have the chance to go see myself, and to learn about the history. Halaczinsky's insights were interesting to read, and added a personal touch to the book. I think my favorite part of the book was the photography. Some of the images were stunning, other calm and soothing to my eye. I enjoy getting to play armchair tourist, and while exploring New York Harbor by boat is something I am not likely to ever do in person, I was very glad to have the chance to experience it second hand.

I really enjoyed this book. The author takes you along on his sailing trip through the small islands of New York and gives you a glimpse of New York most people do not notice. Along with the current journey the author also includes the history of many of the places. The photographs accompanying the text are gorgeous. Enjoy the journey

Thomas Halaczinsky went on an breathtaking adventure, sailing in the waters around New York. This book is a stunning collection of the photos he captured on his adventure, and includes many of the maps that he used to help charter his way around more than 70 islands. I was immediately pulled into the adventure, and loved every page.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I so appreciate it!

Thomas Halaczinsky first arrived in Manhattan New York in 1990 from Europe. Shocked that most of the people around him did not know or care about the beauty surrounding them. He wanted to connect with his surroundings and decided to explore the Island as others did not. In 2012 he was finally able to own a sail boat. He chose to chart a route almost identical to Adriaen Block who first sailed up the East River into Long Island in 1614. The more Thomas sailed the more he decided he was not only just discovering his surroundings but he was on his own inner journey and quest of discovery for who he was and where he fit in.



Instead of driving to most of the places he wanted to see and discover he took his sail boat. Most of the time it was just him his camera, and the open water. Sometimes he took a friend.



This book takes you on his journey. He tells about his feelings, how he sailed, where he went, and what he saw. Not only on the way but when he arrived at each point. The pictures are phenomenal. One of my favorite is page 22. You see the water off the side of the sailboat, there is an island with trees across from the water, then across from the water the coming out of the fog are the huge buildings of Manhattan, it truly is a stunning photo.



The book is filled with photo's, maps, history, and Thomas's own personal insight of what he saw. If you are from New York or just love learning about different places this book is a real treat. I am personally an armchair tourist. I would love to go visit places in person and I do get to go many places with my wonderful husband but some places I know I will never go in person. This book in a way gives you the feeling of having visited without leaving home.



I received this book from the Author or Publisher via Netgalley.com to read and review.