The Reluctant Metropolis: The Politics of Urban Growth in Los Angeles

Discusses how Los Angeles has grown and changed in the last 20 years, portraying the region on the brink of disaster, as politicians, developers, and ordinary citizens shape L.A.'s future through short-sighted political maneuvers. Covers such topics as L.A.'s failed rail transit system, the battle over South Central after the 1992 riots, and the emergence of Las Vegas as a younger version of L.A., spinning out of control with rapid growth. The author provides the information in hopes that cities like Los Angeles can learn from its mistakes and create a better urban environment. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.