James SchapiroRoger Federer and the untouchable, sadistic, gonzo backhand of doomOne day in 2006, Roger Federer sucked out his opponent’s soul, transcended the legend of himself, and hit the greatest shot of all time.10 min read·Mar 24, 2023----
James SchapiroThe Bookstore with the Skull on the ShelfTalia Military fell in love with mysteries as a child, when her mother introduced her to Agatha Christie. As an adult, she loves the genre…4 min read·Jan 21, 2022----
James Schapiro“Temptation Island” Is A Philosophical NightmareSometimes it’s a stress test. Sometimes it’s aiming for “clarity.” But it’s clear that the show itself has no idea what it’s doing.7 min read·Apr 9, 2021----
James SchapiroFinally, the Jets are too bad to failThere’s a scene from The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, a delightful Amazon comedy, that’s been on my mind lately. Abe, the title character’s…4 min read·Oct 19, 2020----
James SchapiroThe Unicorn ReturnsMANHATTAN — It was everywhere. In the stairwells, in the concourse, in the seats. Even before the first jump ball was thrown, you could…4 min read·Nov 15, 2019----
James SchapiroinThe BlueprintAs Sunnyside Yards planning process continues, community remains dividedAs the Sunnyside Yard Master Planning Process draws towards an end, and potential groundbreaking gets closer every day, supporters and…5 min read·Oct 28, 2019----
James SchapiroinThe BlueprintAt Queens CB2 meeting, residents denounce Sunnyside YardAlmost two hours into the September 4th meeting of Queens Community Board 2, Arthur Tarley, who calls himself a “son of Queens,” stepped…4 min read·Oct 2, 2019----
James SchapiroinThe BlueprintIn Woodside, a passion for barberingRuben Arnov has been a barber since 1985. For the last ten years, he’s owned and operated Ruben Barbershop in Woodside, Queens. His rent…2 min read·Sep 29, 2019----
James SchapiroinThe BlueprintAs small pharmacies decline, those that remain work to surviveBetween 60th and 61st Street in Woodside sit a Rite Aid and a Duane Reade. Meanwhile, within four blocks are four small pharmacies: Zarchy…4 min read·Sep 24, 2019----
James SchapiroEdison and the IraniansWHEN I WAS seven, or thereabouts, I changed a lightbulb. It fell from a fixture in the kitchen and landed on the floor, somehow still…5 min read·Aug 1, 2019----