A piece of American history: this book provides a detailed account of the living conditions and challenges faced by immigrants and the poor in New York City in the 19th century. It explores the transformation of immigrants seeking opportunities in the city and the difficulties they encounter in overcrowded tenement housing. The text sheds light on the struggles of marginalized groups and children, emphasizing the harsh realities experienced by the less fortunate in urban environments. It delves into the social dynamics and economic constraints that push individuals towards cheap lodging houses in search of a better life.

Furthermore, the book discusses the societal issues arising from the overcrowding and lack of resources in the city, particularly in areas like the Bowery where immigrants gravitate towards. It highlights the limited knowledge newcomers have about the city and its pitfalls, leading them to seek refuge in crowded lodging houses for a sense of community and belonging. The narrative paints a grim picture of the tenements as hotbeds of epidemics, pauperism, and crime, contributing to the cycle of poverty and desperation that affects both rich and poor alike.

The book is just part of Riis' activism towards the goal of housing reform and other measures to help the poor in NYC.