Latest Stories | The New Chicagoan

History’s hinge

The United States has always been the last, best hope of mankind. Now, with an American pope in Rome, we stand at one of history’s great hinge points. How we use the opportunity presented to us will define the rest of this century — and beyond.

Madame Quoi and her husband, Đình Như Gia Lai, in 1968

Madame Quối is Done With Politics

April 30, 2025, marks fifty years since the Fall of Saigon, and Madame Quối Nguyễn is done thinking about politics. Given the choice, she prefers pragmatism.

Review: Malört

Josh Noel’s book is a wonderful examination of a Chicago urban legend turned cultural phenomenon. By highlighting the personal side of the city’s best, worst drink, Noel successfully sheds light on those who revered Malört — despite the revulsion.