Railroaded: A Motorman’s Story of the New York City Subway

Naiden, a historian and former MTA motorman, debuts with an endearing memoir of his time at the helm of New York City’s subway trains. After slogging through an entry-level job at McDonald’s and a gig selling bras on Orchard Street in 1980s Manhattan, a young Naiden sought more stable employment with the MTA to support himself and his wife. He first worked as a porter, performing custodial duties throughout the subway system, before being promoted to train operator. The most exciting passages chronicle the hazards of the job: blown fuses, failing headlights, and perilous emergency repairs, including a harrowing episode in the Harlem River Tunnel. Equally fascinating is Naiden’s account of labor activism within the subway system: a staunch union supporter who served as shop steward, he details the hard-won, sometimes violent history of organizing for worker safety. After one too many close calls, Naiden retired before qualifying for a pension, his relief sharpened by memories of colleagues injured or responsible for others’ injuries on the job. Blending memoir with institutional history, this fast-paced, edifying account elicits fresh appreciation for the workers who keep New York City moving. It’s a ride worth taking. (Apr.)