Kevin (Central Washington University; University of South Florida, USA) Archer 
The City: The Basics [PDF ebook] 

The City: The Basics provides a brief yet compelling overview of the study of cities and city life. The book draws on a range of perspectives – economic, political, cultural, and environmental aspects are all considered – to provide a broad comparison of the evolution of cities in the rich Global North and the poorer Global South. Topics covered in the book include:

• a brief history of cities from ancient times to the post-modern present


• the differences between 'global cities’ in the North and 'megacities’ in the South


• the environmental impact of urban life and the idea of sustainable cities


• urban planning, urban politics and urban poverty.

Featuring suggestions for further reading, recommended websites and a number of maps and illustrations, this is the ideal starting point for those interested in any aspect of cities or urban studies.