A HISTORY AND GUIDE TO ROCKEFELLER CENTER (N)

The book's full title is The Center: A History and Guide to Rockefeller Center. It's a vintage book, with a publication date in the early 1980s, but it's noted for being informative and visually engaging, and serves as both a historical account and a practical guide to the complex. The book is well-illustrated, likely with both historical black-and-white photos and contemporary (for the time) color images that bring the history and the present-day beauty of the center to life.

The book traces the origins of Rockefeller Center from its initial conception as a site for the Metropolitan Opera to its evolution during the Great Depression. It delves into the vision of John D. Rockefeller Jr. and the architectural and artistic decisions that shaped the complex.

It provides a detailed look at the notable Art Deco buildings, their design, and the integration of art and architecture throughout the complex. This includes discussions of the famous murals, sculptures, and public spaces like the skating rink and the Channel Gardens.

While it's a history book, it's also designed to be a guide for visitors. It leads readers through the various buildings and public areas, offering insights that a casual visitor might miss.

It's a well-regarded book that successfully combines a historical account with a practical guide, making it a comprehensive resource for anyone with an interest in Rockefeller Center. Given its publication date, it is a bit of a historical document itself, capturing the state of the center in the early 1980s. It's a popular find for collectors of books on New York City history and architecture.