Who is this book for?
- This book would likely appeal to readers interested in American history, particularly the Gilded Age and New York City's development.
- Those fascinated by stories of wealthy families, social dynamics of the upper class, and the rise and fall of fortunes would enjoy the narrative.
- Fans of Anderson Cooper's journalism and storytelling style would appreciate his approach to the subject.
- Readers new to the topic of the Astor family or looking for an accessible introduction to their history would find this book engaging and informative.
- Anyone intrigued by the intersection of wealth, power, and societal influence in American history would likely find value in this account.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- Readers seeking a deeply academic or comprehensive history of the Astor family may be disappointed by the book's broader, more narrative approach.
- Those already well-versed in Astor family history or Gilded Age society might find little new information.
- Individuals looking for a strictly chronological or focused family biography may be frustrated by the tangents and side stories included.
- Readers who dislike gossipy or trivial details about wealthy families might find parts of the book off-putting.
- Those expecting an unbiased historical account might be put off by Cooper's personal connections and perceived slant.
- Lastly, readers hoping for in-depth coverage of specific Astor family members or time periods may find the book's breadth unsatisfying compared to its depth.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Well-researched and informative overview of the Astor family history
- Engaging storytelling and narrative style
- Provides interesting historical context about New York City and the Gilded Age
- Offers insights into how the Astor fortune was built and lost over generations
- Includes fascinating anecdotes and side stories related to the Astors
- Balanced portrayal showing both positive and negative aspects of the family
- Audiobook narration by Anderson Cooper praised as excellent
- Accessible writing style makes it approachable for readers new to the topic
- Covers a wide timespan from John Jacob Astor to more recent generations
- Explores the psychology and motivations behind amassing such wealth
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- Lacks depth on some family members and time periods
- Can be disjointed or unfocused at times, with tangents unrelated to the main Astor story
- Not much new information for those already familiar with Astor history
- Some readers found it too gossipy or focused on trivial details
- Uneven coverage of different family members and generations
- Repetitive in parts
- Perceived bias from Anderson Cooper as a Vanderbilt descendant
- Too much focus on side stories not directly related to the Astors
- Lacks thorough coverage of the English branch of the family
- Some felt it was a vanity project for Anderson Cooper
