Book: Where Peachtree Meets Sweet Auburn

I just finished reading the book, “Where Peachtree Meets Sweet Auburn”, and I believe it to be the longest book I’ve ever read cover to cover ~ a whopping 554 pages. I learned of this book during the kickoff retreat for Leadership Atlanta back in late August, quickly purchased it and finished it six months later. Had it been digital (hint to the author) I probably would have read it in half the time simply because I would have always had it with me.

It’s a top ten book for me, without question, which surprised me because I’m not a huge history book kinda guy. Plus, being over 500 pages AND not available in digital form, I was certain that I wouldn’t read it in its entirety when I first had it in my hands. It’s now proudly featured in the list of books I recommend.

It is described by the author, Gary M. Pomerantz, as “A rich history of the changing South told through the stories of two prominent Atlanta families, one white, one black.” Starting back in the early 1800’s and going through the mid-1990’s, it paints an amazing picture of Atlanta as it grew from a small railroad hub into the international city it is today. And more importantly, as the national epicenter for civil rights and racial (in)equality.

Anyone interested in Atlanta’s history, or for that matter Atlanta’s future, should pick this book up. I’ve already purchased two additional copies for friends as I want as many people as possible to experience this amazing piece of literature.

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