William Low’s dramatically illustrated picture book chronicles the rise and fall of New York City’s original Pennsylvania Railroad terminal, as well as Penn Station’s important place in the architectural and social history of the city. Low explores the building as both a work of architecture and a significant gathering place for trains and people alike in the first half of the twentieth century. His images convey a sense of intricate detail while capturing the sweeping expanse of the building and its role. Torn down in the mid–1960s to make way for Madison Square Garden, Penn Station’s demise was a wake up call for preservationists, who used its destruction as a rallying cry to save Grand Central Terminal in the 1970s. Most of Low’s illustrations were created on a computer using techniques that masterfully capture the warmth and texture of oil paintings. (Ages 6–10)

A beautiful tribute to the glory of the original Pennsylvania Railroad Station

During the first half of the 20th century, the original Pennsylvania Station was one of New York City's grandest landmarks, a palace in the middle of Manhattan. William Low's glorious illustrations pay close attention to detail while still encompassing the large-scale grandeur of Penn Station.

Old Penn Station follows a very specific piece of New York City history, but it's not just a New York book. The author's research carefully addresses the whole history of the building, from construction to destruction, ending with an acknowledgment of its lasting legacy in terms of historical preservation. Spaces can be powerful, and Old Penn Station honors one particular powerful space which is sure to engender discussion about other historical buildings and monuments all across the nation.

This is a classic, beautiful book for history lovers, train lovers, and art lovers alike.

Old Penn Station is a 2007 New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Book of the Year and a 2008 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.