Saul Steinberg, a Romanian-born artist, reflects on his life and the world he shaped through his iconic New Yorker illustrations. The memoir traces his early life, introducing his family and his experiences evading authorities in fascist Italy before his immigration to America. Upon arrival, he became a U.S. Navy officer and rose to prominence as a visionary satirist, offering a unique perspective on American society and his place within it.

This memoir is regarded as an insightful and often witty exploration of an artist's life and perspective. The book offers a personal glimpse into Steinberg's unique worldview, shaped by his European roots and his experiences in America. Readers and critics have noted the intellectual nimbleness and distinctive voice that characterized his work, finding in this book a continuation of that sharp observation. The narrative provides context for his famous illustrations, revealing the man behind the iconic imagery.