Jacob A. Riis 
The Making of an American 

In ’The Making of an American’ by Jacob A. Riis, the reader is transported to the slums of New York City in the late 19th century, where Riis documented the harsh reality of immigrant life through vivid photographs and descriptive prose. Riis’s writing style is characterized by a combination of journalism and social commentary, making the book a cornerstone of muckraking literature. Through his work, Riis sheds light on the living conditions of the urban poor and advocates for social reform. The book serves as a primary source for understanding the urbanization of America and the struggles faced by immigrants during this period. Riis’s use of photography as a storytelling tool adds a compelling layer to the narrative, immersing the reader in the sights and sounds of tenement life. Jacob A. Riis, a Danish immigrant himself, drew inspiration from his own experiences living in poverty in New York City. As a social reformer and journalist, Riis sought to expose the inequality and injustice facing the immigrant population. His firsthand knowledge of the subject matter adds authenticity and depth to ’The Making of an American.’ I highly recommend ’The Making of an American’ to readers interested in American history, immigration studies, and social reform. Riis’s groundbreaking work offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the power of visual storytelling in creating social change.