Merebut Ruang Kota Aksi Rakyat Miskin Kota Surabaya 1900-1960an

The book is widely praised for its exceptionally detailed research, drawing extensively from archives, contemporary newspapers, and colonial and independent government documents to explore the lives of Surabaya's urban poor in the 20th century. Reviewers laud its significant contribution to Indonesian historiography by shifting the narrative from "history from above" to focus on the marginalized, giving voice to those often excluded from historical accounts. It is recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, enriching understanding of urban issues through lenses of history, sociology, public policy, and urban planning. Many found it brilliant in unraveling social problems related to poverty, inequality, and the contestation for urban space, highlighting their enduring relevance to contemporary city governance and urban planning challenges. The book successfully illustrates how cities are often developed to benefit rulers or a select few, rather than the wider populace.

Despite its strengths, some reviewers noted areas for improvement. A recurring critique is that while the book is rich in detail and descriptive content, it sometimes lacks deeper analysis of the abundant material objects presented. Technical issues were also raised, including the poor quality of images which made them difficult to discern. Additionally, readers pointed out that many Dutch and Javanese terms were left untranslated, and explanations for foreign or specialized vocabulary were either minimal, poorly placed, or entirely absent, making it challenging for general readers to fully grasp certain concepts without external research. Some felt the narrative flow could be disjointed, with ideas jumping around, making it feel more like a research report than an easily digestible story for a broader audience.

Overall, the book is considered an important and impactful work that sheds light on the complex history of urban development and poverty in Surabaya, with implications for other cities. It reveals how historical patterns of urban space conflict and governance approaches to poverty have largely persisted, indicating a lack of learning from the past. The book is highly recommended for students of urban and regional planning, researchers, and anyone interested in Indonesian history, particularly from a "history from below" perspective. It will appeal to readers who appreciate data-rich, well-cited academic studies and are keen to understand the intricate socio-political dynamics behind urban growth, the struggles of marginalized communities, and the enduring challenges of equitable urban planning. The book ultimately fosters a deeper appreciation for the historical struggles embedded within urban landscapes.