Inventing Paradise

More about the book

The book explores the transformative journey of Los Angeles from a small pueblo to a sprawling metropolis, driven by six influential visionaries. It uncovers the myths surrounding the city's growth, detailing the triumphs and scandals of figures like Harry Chandler and William Mulholland. Key historical events, such as the controversial expansion of trolley systems and the construction of the aqueduct, highlight the complex interplay of power and policy. Haddad also addresses the environmental and social costs of this rapid development, revealing the darker side of L.A.'s creation.