The conventional wisdom that suburban living was only accessible to blue-collar workers, immigrants, and minorities after World War II is challenged by an intensive study of Toronto's prewar development. Richard Harris demonstrates that even before the war, Toronto's suburban fringes were home to a diverse population, including a notable number of lower-income North American families. This unplanned growth, characteristic of a uniquely North American tragedy, highlights the persistent dangers of unchecked suburban expansion and its societal consequences.

This study challenges the prevailing narrative of post-WWII suburban accessibility by presenting evidence of diverse, lower-income populations in Toronto's prewar suburbs. The work serves as a critical examination of unplanned urban growth and its lasting impact. It is likely to be of interest to scholars of urban planning, history, and sociology, offering a nuanced perspective on the development of North American cities. The book's focus on Toronto provides a specific case study for broader discussions on suburbanization.