Rating: 3 out of 5
North River by Pete Hamill
Review by Erin Gurry
During the Great Depression, when many of James
Delaney's patients cannot pay for services, the New
York City doctor find his life out of order when an
act of compassion to help an old war buddy lands
him in the sights of a mob boss. The unfortunate
events eventually strengthen the bond between
Delany and his grandson along with the woman whom
he hired to help care for the child. Amidst the
chaos and turmoil, Delaney finds himself turning
his world upside down and rediscovering the joyful
bonds that lead men through adversity.

North River's subtle love story is endearing but it
does not always compel the reader to keep turning
the pages. Although his work is a charming story
with a well drawn setting, its storyline and
characters are sometimes predictable. The plot
seems slow to develop and at certain times
anticlimactic.

However, what is notable about this novel is its
excellent historical rendering and period detail.
Hamill delivers a rare and remarkable depiction of
New York City during the 1930s. One can truly
envision the city, its stores, the atmosphere and
its inhabitants during those dreadful years and can
feel the desperation of the patients and the
doctor's compassion. For one who is interested in
the history of New York during the Great
Depression, North River can deliver a perspective
on the lives of those trying to make a difference
in a world of hopelessness.

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