My Favorite Novels Set In New York

So much has been written about New York that the city has become an overused setting in literary works. As a resident of the famed city, I am always in awe of the new things I discover every day. When it comes to novels, my city has served as a fitting backdrop for many stories. Let me share with you some of my favorite books set in the Big Apple:

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The Great Gatsby (1925) by F. Scott Fitzgerald

An American classic, this novel is a fitting tribute to the whimsical 1920s. Lavish, controversial, full of mystery, and burning with passion, the story truly illustrated the ups and the downs of the American Dream. Set in Long Island's fictional East and West Egg, Fitzgerald has blazed the trail for writers who want to explore narratives on the extravagant life.

A Visit from the Goon Squad (2011) by Jennifer Egan

While the interrelated stories also take place in different settings, I don't think the narrative will be as gripping if the New York element was left out. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel explored the many characters' complex thoughts, dreams, and experiences through different timelines. It's pretty difficult to explain, but it's really worth your time. People say it's a collection of stories, but if you're a world-builder like me, you might also consider this a novel.

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Open City (2011) by Teju Cole

Set in Manhattan, Teju Cole's debut novel is about a medical student wandering the city he finds strange. While it describes the city in detail, some people might find the defamiliarization disarming. I enjoyed the author's description of what goes on in the city and in his character's lives. Though at times strange, this take on life in the concrete jungle can hit too close to home.

Have you read any of these books? What's your favorite novel set in New York?

Thanks for dropping by! My name is Ron Ozer, and my love for literature led me to New York where I'm currently studying. Aside from this blog, I also share my thoughts on this page.

Five Practical Ways To Saving Money For Travel

With lower airline ticket prices and vacation rental options like Airbnb, the traveling industry is booming like never before. People might feel the need to take a break from their demanding schooling and tiring jobs, and going on vacation could provide them temporary stillness and relaxation. However, traveling doesn’t come with an affordable price tag. Here are some ways to save for that much awaited getaway.

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Open a bank account exclusively for travels. Automatic payments can be set up into the account. Make sure that the money deposited into the account won’t be used for other expenditure. An interest-bearing account is a great option especially when the trip won’t happen soon. It’s said that millennials cannot settle for having just one job.

Get a side job and earn extra income to save more money for travel. While having more than one source of income can be stressful, think of the reward to stay motivated. It could be seasonal jobs related to one’s line of work, or commissioned work—whatever that is, it’s going to make that dream vacation happen sooner.

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Cancel that gym membership and get in shape through online workouts. Going to the gym works for the first months for most people. Thus, it is better to work out at home and save on cash than paying for service that’s barely used. Fitness experts say getting fit is 10 percent exercise and 90 percent eating right. Putting that concept into practice, cut back on monthly food budget by buying in bulk, shopping at farmer’s markets, and only buying foods that are nutritious. Lastly, save money by carpooling or renting out the car. Potentially, an individual can make up to $3,000 a year by doing so.

Ron Ozer loves traveling and considers Israel as his favorite place to visit. For more travel tips, head over to this blog.