“In the course of two decades in the mid-nineteenth century, Paris was transformed from a medieval town into a modern city. . . an astonishing makeover, which displaced three hunred and fifty thousand Parisians and razed most of the historic city. . . . Wide-ranging and readable history.” —The New Yorker

“A fine account of the reconstruction of Paris. . . . Kirkland clearly knows Paris intimately, writes lucid and engaging prose, and is both spirited in his advocacy of Napoleon III and clear-eyed about how he was able to do what he did. . . . In the end Kirkland tells a cautionary tale. While it is an immense pleasure to accompany him as he leads us through the planning and building of the great boulevards, the construction of the Opera House and the reconstruction of the Louvre, it is also sobering to realize that in the process of gaining much, Paris lost much as well, in particular medieval neighborhoods that had profoundly influenced the city's character.” —Washington Post

“Scrupulously researched . . . Fascinating and highly readable, Paris Reborn is strongly recommended for Francophiles, travelers, and students of urban history and planning.” —Library Journal (starred review)

“Long before Robert Moses set about sculpting New York City, Baron Haussmann--with the blessings of Napoleon III (the Napoleon's nephew)--transformed Paris from a medieval maze into a modern metropolis. . . . Kirkland is an able navigator of architectural history--vivid descriptions abound, and the evolution of the city's infrastructure, public spaces, and other amenities is a testament to the oft overlooked reign of Napoleon III. Lovers of the City of Light and urban planners alike will find Kirkland's survey illuminating.” —Publishers Weekly

“Stephane Kirkland succeeds in linking strands of politics and finance, to those of history, art and beauty, with a skill that lends his book a most contemporary cutting edge.” —Alistair Horne, author of Seven Ages of Paris

“Destined to become a classic . . . Kirkland's authoritative study sparkles with little-known gems . . . un-put-down-able.” —David Downie, author of Paris, Paris

“In this richly illustrated, broadly researched volume we follow, step by audacious step, as these two men raze neighborhoods, float bond measures, and, through daring, gamesmanship, even corruption, craft the modern City of Light.” —Penelope Rowlands, author of Paris Was Ours