Nicky D. from L.I.C.: A Narrative Portrait of Nicholas Detommaso

Written and designed by Warren Lehrer (not Jim Lehrer) this is a really great read and a great gift. Designed like a 'person' this book reads like a person talking. Really fun. Great insight into some New York history and neighborhood feeling. Warren Lehrer is a unique designer who was able to put a 'personality' on the page with photographs, and typography.

Written by Jim Lehrer, who has an interesting way of presenting 'visual literature' (varying font types and other graphic tools), this book is a riveting look at one quintessential New Yorker. Nicky D. Tommaso has lived in the same apartment across the river from the United Nations for over 65 years, and seen life go by with a keen eye, and a charmed smile. This comes across as a series of vignettes, anecdotes, and stories told as only Nicky D can. With an irreverence that is delightful, and an insight that is at times, profound, we are led by the hand to various little corners of his house, his life and his mind. A great read that may be universal in its appeal mainly because its so utterly honest, and drenched in human suffering and joy. All told with a sense of humor that is the most appealing element of this book. Excellent!