A rediscovered trove of historical documents. A new view of American beginnings. An intensely personal power struggle between two men, which would change history. From out of the mists of the past, a forgotten American hero.

The Island at the Center of the World is all of this. In a landmark work of history that is also thrilling storytelling, Russell Shorto "deconstructs" Manhattan, transforming it from the concrete-and-glass center of global power to a wooded wilderness island, home to wolves and bear, hunting ground for Indians. On this strategically located island, a largely forgotten collection of smugglers, traders, prostitutes, pirates, and entrepreneurs formed America's original melting pot, and created a society that helped shape the nation that was to come. The Island at the Center of the World gives a startling new perspective on American beginnings.

The Island at the Center of the World is a New York Times extended list bestseller, and a featured selection of the Book of the Month Club, History Bookclub and Quality Paperback Bookclub.