New York City is known for its diverse residents, beckoned to the Big Apple from around the world to revel in its culture, cuisine, and lively atmosphere.

In an entertaining collection of short stories, Pere Ortis showcases the idiosyncrasies of both realistic and imaginary New Yorkers as they attempt to navigate through their very different lives and experiences in a city that never sleeps, each with a unique purpose. As the self-appointed leader and despot of a group of homeless drunkards, Audrey Palmer has no idea he is about to endure an unthinkable tragedy. Iñaki Olavarria works as an usher in the Olympic Tower. Between his duties, he studies the architecture of Saint Patrick's Cathedral. But what he ultimately discovers in his search for wisdom is like nothing he has ever known. Vilkas Valiusaitis is a Lithuanian who demands much from life. As the immigrant struggles to assimilate to his new life, language, and culture, he must somehow determine a way to get along with his German cook whom he has nicknamed, The Führer.

The Rose of Harlem is a volume of short tales that provide a glimpse into the lives and challenges of an eclectic band of New Yorkers.