Scott Cowen

The story of the devastation of New Orleans and its struggle out of that devastation told by the president of Tulane University. Mixed in with the recounting of events relating to the recovery of NOLA were the leadership principles demonstrated in that chapter that Cowen felt were important. A great inside take, even if from the ivory tower perspective, on the recovery of NOLA, leaning heavily toward the positive but not afraid to show some of the negative as well. I would rate this book 3.5 stars if Goodreads allowed half stars. I received a free ARC of this book through Goodreads First Reads giveaways.
… (altro)

There have been many, many books written about the effect of Hurricane Katrina on New Orleans. Scott Cowen, President of Tulane University, adds his to the list with The Inevitable City, a book that seems to be part memoir, part urban blue print, and part inspirational tale of the city's revival. Though his aim seems noble, and it's clear he loves the New Orleans, I don't really think he brings anything new to the table here, beyond perhaps recounting some of the more long-term consequences of the post-storm population decrease. As I lived in the New Orleans area at the time of the storm I found this book interesting, but I was nonetheless left wondering why Cowen felt the world needed his take on the story as well.… (altro)

A combination memoir, urban planning and culture study of New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Scott Cowen has a unique perspective on the city of New Orleans. While not a native Southerner, he is required to be estremely aware of what drives this city and region due to his job as president of Tulane University. But his true trial by fire, as university and city leader, came with Hurricane Katrina and the destruction left in its wake. He tells his story with insight and honesty - no punches pulled but without political hysteria. What he writes is a story of hope and renewal that can be a lesson plan for other urban areas looking to move forward and thrive.

Obviously well written (would anyone expect anything less of a university president?) but also well nuanced and thoughtful. I enjoyed his portrayal of the culture of New Orleans and how incredibly diverse it is (and how it deals with this diversity) without resorting to the usual cliches of tourist mecca. In the 'pull no punches' area, he plainly lays out how the 'help' and charity that New Orleans received after the hurricane was frequently anything but - ignoring what was truly needed in favor of what 'should' be done. The tightrope walk of rebuilding required a balance of honoring history while also keeping in sight a moving forward in order to bring about positive and lasting change. It is easy to see that this city has charmed Cowan as it has so many others. An enjoyable read recommended to anyone with interests in Hurricane Katrina history, Tulane University, or New Orleans itself. Urban planners and activists would also find much of interest in this book.… (altro)