T.D. Allman's 1987 book "Miami -- City of the Future" is a thoughtful and original perspective on modern Miami (post-riots, post-Mariel). Allman is not a resident, so he's able to look at the city's complex social and political fabric with an objective eye.

The book is not organized chronologically nor by subject matter, which may test the patience of some readers. But I found Allman's style and substance unique and insightful. For example, he points out the irony of refugees so desperate for a chance at a new life that they will actually *swim* to Miami, contrasted with the "utter weariness of life" that you find in so many Miami residents. Allman writes poetically of Miami as a place that draws people with dreams, people who long to reinvent themselves. He includes stories of people from all walks of life -- one is struck by how similar the winners & losers are; their disillusionment and loneliness is haunting. I could relate to Allman's evocative descriptions of Miami's allure -- the beauty, diversity, and danger of the Magic City.

The unfortunate thing is that the book is now so dated. Part of that is, of course, not the author's fault -- Miami has changed and continues to change very rapidly. Many of the things that Allman writes about, such as the white good ol' boy political power structure, no longer exist. Allman's blithe assurance that the massive influx of immigrants would become thoroughly Americanized is not evident in present-day Miami. It's also unfortunate that Allman writes so extensively of the "Miami Vice" tv series, which further dooms the book to period-piece status. I would welcome an update or even a sequel to this book.

This is the best book written on Miami so far. An excellent read, and reread.

A revised edition is needed, but until one comes along this book provides the best insights in Miami printed so far.

The book is physically beautiful too.

Try to get a copy with a cover in good condition. It's worth the little extra.