Tom Lynch

With Daley Jr. firmly atop the city's throne till death do them part, a look back at Chicago's mayoral history proves to be a study in cold politics. Former Mayor Jane Byrne, who started her career as a twentysomething aide to Daley Sr. in the sixties, writes her memoir, "My Chicago," with engaging bite, complete with enough political history to make our city seem like the most mood-swingin' town that ever existed. Coming from the powerhouse that beat the original Daley machine, Byrne's book tells the tales of reigns wrapped in controversy, mostly focusing on her development plans that spewed between the borders and led to her infamous decision to move into the Cabrini-Green projects. Despised by some and adored by others, Byrne's time spent in the political ring never had a dull moment--and it all began with her famous meeting with Papa Daley, when she reduced him to tears.

Jane Byrne reads from "My Chicago" on November 18 at Barbara's Bookstore, 1218 South Halsted, (312)413-2665, at 7:30pm. Free.

(2004-11-17)

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