Here First: Autobiographical Essays by Native American Writers Book

In short: Don't buy, borrow. This a library read.

In long: This memoir reveals issues of prejudices and stereotypes typical in most any service industry job. It's unique in that it gives more intimate portrayals of New York City neuroses than most books (say, by bartenders) due to the added tension of being locked in a cab with the nutjobs and vulnerable to their whims.

The author is a likable person & has a voice that will appeal to the well-educated liberal-arts set. She's analytical, as best revealed by her notes on the effects of the cabdriving on her body and psyche. As she learns, we learn too precisely how the taxicab fits into the contextual map of the metropolis.

But, after the first 100 pages, it gets repetitive. I began to feel as though I were the passenger stuck in the cab with a chatty, miserable driver, when I'd really like to just get there. It needs some more tweaks, a stronger editorial hand, and - sadly- a point.

Though at first I liked her, by the end I was tired of her and her whining about how she dislikes cabdriving. I just wanted her to stop the indecision and complaining, and get on with it, (or get out of it).

I am interested to see her blog. I have a feeling it must be better. And, had this book been a collection of pointed essays, it would have been more successful.