I moved to PDX in April 2021; I’d only visited the city once, probably around 2005, and it was only for a rainy afternoon. The book gave some insight into just how weird the city was during a time that is practically a lifetime ago. It’s outdated and most things mentioned in the book have closed. Even the language is outdated and at times, unacceptable. But there were a few gems that made me really wonder what my new home was like 25-30 years ago. I’m not sure the book did the city any service since it focused, somewhat repetitively on the seedier side of life. But I’m still glad I read it…and now I can return to really getting to know the real Portland as it exists now.