Lerner's book is extremely well-researched and paints a vivid picture of "nightclub New York", early 20th century politics and society,and Americans' desire for freedom from excess government. The author reflects on the ways Prohibition fueled bigotry against the large numbers of immigrants arriving from Europe, its effect on the African American community in NYC, and the part it played in the changing roles of women.
Lerner includes interesting anecdotes about 1920s New Yorkers, well known locales, and newspaper accounts of the time. Not at all a "dry" read, the author captures the reader's attention and educates him. Notes and an index help make Lerner's title a valuable research source. ( )

Fascinating and highly readable account of prohibition in NYC. ( )