Jason Diamond's 'The Sprawl' Examines American Suburbs as Cultural History Amid Urban Exodus

In his book 'The Sprawl,' Jason Diamond delves into the cultural evolution of American suburbs, particularly during the urban exodus spurred by the pandemic. He showcases notable sites such as the Ben Rose House in Highland Park, Illinois, featured in 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off,' and Seaside, Florida, from 'The Truman Show.' The narrative also touches on Madonna's birthplace, Bay City, Michigan, and Glenn Danzig's childhood residence in Lodi, New Jersey. Diamond examines the roots of suburbs, including Zion and McHenry in Illinois, while critiquing developer William Levitt's racially exclusive practices. He discusses the depiction of white culture in cinema, shares stories about Mr. T, and likens suburbs to Anakin Skywalker, asserting their ongoing cultural significance, with over half of Americans residing in them.