Years ago I read two books by Helene Hanff

84 Charing Cross Road
The Apple of My Eye

The second one: a resident of NY city who doesn't take it all for granted and sees it as if she were just visiting. It is very observant, perceptive, warm, and insightful. I've never been to NY but if I planned to go there I would re-read this book first.

SRS,

The Vinland book is one of the few Shute books I haven't read.

Helen