There is an endless talk about the need for urban renaissance. Can it happen in the real world? In this vast, challenging and vital book, Nicholas Shawn argues that the first priority of renewal is to make neighborhoods and cities places for people to choose.

The author reviews the last two centuries of urban growth and degeneration, and analyzes successes. Recent changes in urban policy have failed and a wide range of radical measures are proposed to make the renaissance a reality.

Comprehensive research, The Chosen City is a wake-up call for all those interested and involved in urban renewal - degree students and academics, planning and housing specialists, architects, surveyors, developers and politicians. The text is illustrated with strong black and white images from a leading national newspaper photographer..

I want that book.