Philadelphia Reader

This anthology gathers profiles that first ran in Philadelphia magazine across roughly the last twenty-five years. Its subjects range from the widely known to the notorious and the almost-famous. Athletes such as Mike Schmidt and Dr. J appear alongside Brian Roberts, a business leader, and politicians including Governor Rendell and Mayor Goode. Entertainers and public figures like Patti LaBelle and Terry Gross are also featured.

Some pieces are written in the subjects' own voices, while others are reported portraits by the magazine's writers and editors. Together they show a range of approaches to the people who have shaped the city.

The collection works as a guide to the figures behind Philadelphia's recent history and culture, and to the stories they have helped create.