NYC Storefronts: Illustrations of the Big Apple's Best-Loved Spots

When the coronavirus crisis hit in 2020, illustrator Joel Holland began drawing storefronts near his apartment as a way of memorializing an element of city life that seemed suddenly precarious. He posted them on Instagram and they quickly drew an avid following. Eventually, Holland’s collection grew to include shops recommended by friends or strangers online. This book showcases 225 of his delightful illustrations and runs the gamut, from delis and bodegas to dive bars, bookstores, bakeries, newsstands, cafés, restaurants and more. Each image is paired with engaging text written by journalist David Dodge and filled with the historical, cultural, and architectural details that have earned these stores a place in people’s hearts. Also included is a foreword by beloved Instagrammer New York Nico, who is known for chronicling the city’s independent businesses.

Sassy Planet: a Queer Guide to 40 Cities

For decades, LGBTQ travelers have congregated in predictable places: queer-friendly cities like New York and Berlin, or beach towns such as Mykonos and Fire Island. But as progress and visibility expand across the globe, so do queer people’s travel options. Drawing on their own extensive travel experiences, as well as the perspectives of local DJs, artists, activists, drag performers, DIY historians, and long-time residents (many of them found through the biggest advantage gay travelers have over their straight counterparts: ‘hookup’ apps like Grindr and Scruff), the authors of Sassy Planet offer up the latest on what’s hot in 40 cities around the world. Traveling in the US? Check out RuPaul’s Drag Race star Alaska’s recommendations for Pittsburgh, where she first got her start. Planning a trip to Japan? Read about the 300+ queer bars packed into Tokyo’s Shinjuku neighborhood. Even in countries where homosexuality is sanctioned, you’ll read about emerging pockets of queer acceptance and culture. You’ll also find the very latest info on where to go in major destinations, from the Por Detroit parties in Mexico City to new Brooklyn hot spots. The book features interviews with local celebs, best-of lists, and little- known hideaways all packaged with helpful insights, cool bits of regional culture, queer lore—and of course, plenty of sass to spare.