We're Still Here Ya Bastards: How the People of New Orleans Rebuilt Their City (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781568587448)

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is one of the darkest chapters in American history. The storm caused unprecedented destruction, and a toxic combination of government neglect and socioeconomic inequality turned a crisis into a tragedy. But among the rubble, there is hope.

We're Still Here Ya Bastards presents an extraordinary panoramic look at New Orleans's revival in the years following the hurricane. Award-winning journalist Roberta Brandes Gratz shares the stories of people who returned to their homes and have taken the rebuilding of their city into their own hands. She shows how the city -- from the Lower Ninth Ward to the storied French Quarter to Bayou Bienvenue -- is recovering despite flawed governmental policies that promote disaster capitalism rather than the public good. While tracing positive trends, Gratz also investigates the most fiercely debated issues and challenges facing the city: a violent and corrupt prison system, the tragic closing of Charity Hospital, the future of public education, and the rise of gentrification.

By telling stories that are often ignored by the mainstream media, We're Still Here Ya Bastards shows the strength and resilience of a community that continues to work to rebuild New Orleans, and reveals what Katrina couldn't destroy: the vibrant culture, epic history, and unwavering pride of one of the greatest cities in America.

Author: Roberta Brandes Gratz
ISBN-10: 1568587449
ISBN-13: 9781568587448
Publisher: Bold Type Books
Language: English
Published: 06/09/2015
Pages: 432
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.40lbs
Size: 9.30h x 6.30w x 1.60d

Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 04/13/2015
Kirkus Reviews 04/01/2015 pg. 63
Library Journal 05/01/2015 pg. 92
Booklist 06/01/2015 pg. 12