This book interested me based on the neighborhood described in New York City (Greenwich Village)and the famous individuals who lived there on Bank Street. Donna's story telling approach is like listening to your grandparent describe growing up with those around her and how the streets/buildings changed thru the years for good and bad. The book is descriptive and you can envision yourself walking down the neighborhood talking to neighbors. This is Donna's story of how she grew up and from the age of 4 performed in the Opera. There are many stories of those that lived on Bank Street thru the years, but more important, the diverse individuals, and how they all felt they belonged and were safe among each other. The children ran free around certain blocks exploring the changes of Greenwich Village with new vendors, closing of some businesses, and its continued changes on these famous blocks.