Briefly Noted Book Reviews
Briefly

Dan Nadel's biography of Robert Crumb meticulously examines the influential cartoonist's life, from his rise in the counterculture of the 1960s to his later works, including his adaptations of the Book of Genesis. The narrative interweaves admiration for Crumb's artistic abilities with critiques of his controversial depictions of race and gender. Conversely, Robert Snyder's "When the City Stopped" recounts New Yorkers' resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing how essential workers and everyday heroes collaborated to keep the city's spirit alive in distressing times. Together, these narratives highlight the artistic and human responses to challenging eras.
"Crumb's career encapsulates a complex interplay between underground culture and polemic artistry, crafting a legacy filled with both innovation and troubling controversies."
"Snyder's collection reveals a tapestry of communal resilience, portraying how everyday New Yorkers embodied courage and solidarity during the darkest moments of the COVID-19 crisis."
Read at The New Yorker
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