A great deal of fun to read, and a clear and obvious labour of love on the part of the author, who was a native of Albany. Part of the book is an exploration of, and history of, the neighborhoods of Albany, another part deals with the various ethnic groups of Albany, and yet another part deals with its politics, all woven together (in fact, some bits are cross-referenced in other sections). Also, lots of good photographs, which many other books of its kind ignore. All with a semi-tongue in cheek style as well. Warmly recommended. ( )