The Cheap Bastard's Guide to New York City: A Native New Yorker's Secrets of Living the Good Life--For Free!

Several of my old college friends still trickle into New York for a visit, and I gladly play the city's goodwill ambassador. One of my friends from Iowa (one alma mater of mine) was toting this book. I thumbed through it and thought, "This is pretty good. I'll pick up a copy for whenever other friends come to the Big Onion." I did pick up a copy, and as I read through this very well written book, I started to learn a few things for myself. Now, it's a keeper FOR ME. This is something every New Yorker should own, but I hope doesn't. If too many people discover the secrets in this book, they might go away.

This book is the best I've read of its genre. Rob Grader means it when he says something's free, and he gives away the catch where there is one.After reading his book, I have now*seen a Broadway play...for FREE*seen the Knicks at Madison Square Garden...for FREE*found a bar with $3 mixed drinks and free popcorn*furnished my apartment FREE*bought half-price bagels to last a whole week*seen FREE acoustic performances.The one I haven't got yet is the free movie tickets, but that's coming. Oh yes--I've been in New York less than six weeks, living off savings, working as an intern and not getting paid. BUY THIS BOOK! (But if you're really cheap, you'll do what I did and read it at a bookstore first, then buy it used online).

As a relatively new resident of New York City, I found this book to be a great source of ideas. I have already done a number of the activities suggested by the Cheap Bastard including Sunday jazz in Washington Heights, swing dancing on the Hudson River pier and at a dancing school, and free outdoor movies downtown. It seems especially good for the summer months, with lots of outdoor events. My boyfriend is not a big spender so it suits us well! Thanks!

As a New Yorker and an X-treme bargin hound I thought there would be little I could learn from this book. Wow. Was I in for a shock. The author reveals a universe of cheap wonders in NYC, that had somehow eluded my cheap self. Even better, it's a throughly entertaining read.I especially liked the entertainment listings and the hair, beauty and massage section. I'm all a twitter to go to the totally free Shiseido "store" for my free facial, massage and even classes. Heck, I may even apply for the free car he speaks of...The best kept NY secrets are here. Read this book and you'll finally understand how many of us can afford our rent AND have a blast every day of the week.

This is a really great collection of ideas. I've looked at several other books with similar themes, but they tend to repeat the same ideas--this one digs a lot deeper and seems extremely well researched. Highly recommended.