Introduction to Cities

Reviews / Votes

"In a comprehensible style and with illustrating examples, Introduction to Cities offers a fresh perspective to investigate abstract cities through specific places... Given the scope of this book as a sociological volume, it is exceptionally clear and informative on demographic dynamics within urban settings. Students and scholars interested in urban change, human wellbeing and social justice issues will benefit from reading this book." (Urban Studies, September 2014) "In this context, the task of writing a broad introductory textbook is daunting, and the authors of Introduction to Cities should be recognised for their notable accomplishment." (Tijdschrift Voor Economische En Sociale Geografie, 1 November 2013) "In sum, I recommend this book for academic use in lower level undergraduate courses in urban studies and related disciplines. To conclude, the full title of Introduction to Cities can and should be taken quite literally; this is an introductory text about cities, exploring how place and space shape the human experience. Xiangming Chen, Anthony M. Orum, and Krista E. Paulsen's book exemplifies truth in advertising." (Journal of Urban Affairs, 1 May 2014) "Introduction to Cities" shows how and why cities are important to us as members of a global human community. Each chapter lays out an accessible, empathetic, and coherent story about cities that will intrigue the reader and excite their curiosity. Through a combination of historical overview, theoretical application, and astute analysis and cross-national case studies of urban change, Introduction to Cities provides an original, innovative perspective to explain how cities change, how they affect our lives, and how we can make them better places to live. Students and scholars of cities and urban change will enjoy this book very much." --Kevin Fox Gotham, Tulane University "This comprehensive political sociology of cities reflects both the growing interest in space and place and the unusually rapid urbanization of the developing world, with a particularly sensitive treatment of Chinese cities. Up-to-date, and theoretically and politically astute, the text is exceptionally clear, almost conversational in tone, and oriented to student learning." --Edward Soja, UCLA