Glory City Stories: Philadelphia Review
Get to know your own city through compeling photography and thoughtful writing
When I first set out to review this product, I didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t familiar with Glory Studios or what a “pocket stories book” was. Well, consider me pleasantly surprised. This little gem is a must-have for anyone in one (or more) of the following categories:
A local wanting to dive deeper into Philadelphia's soccer scene.
A visitor looking to understand the journey Philadelphia took to bring MLS to the city.
A soccer enthusiast eager to explore grassroots efforts to grow the game.
A city lover captivated by stunning photography and compelling storytelling.
If you identify with any of these—or, like me, some of them—this pocket-sized, $15 masterpiece is perfect to take with you wherever you go.
What is Glory Studios?
Founded in 2015, Glory Studios dared to defy the digital age by producing high-quality, thoughtfully crafted print media. While most publishers embrace digital-only formats, Glory doubles down on creating physical works of art that stand out on a bookshelf or as the centerpiece of a coffee table.
From the moment you pick it up, the care and detail that went into its creation are clear. From the inclusion of Philadelphia’s coordinates on the spine of the book to the weight and texture of the pages, every aspect of the book feels premium. The striking photography pairs seamlessly with thoughtful typography, while insightful interviews—like those with Chris Donovan and the recently departed Jim Curtin—provide depth to the narrative.
What makes this little book so special?
Yes, I’ve already raved about the stunning photography and thoughtful graphic design choices, but they deserve the praise. Still, this book goes far beyond aesthetics, delving into compelling stories that bring Philadelphia’s soccer culture to life. From the Icarus Cup to the impactful work of the Kensington Soccer Club—a community pillar making a real difference—this piece covers a wide array of narratives.
Of course, there are features on the Sons of Ben, the Philadelphia Union, and interviews with Jim Curtin and Chris Donovan. However, it’s the lesser-known stories, the ones off the beaten path, that truly capture the imagination. These stories appeal equally to the seasoned local soccer enthusiast and the suburban parent unfamiliar with the scene, creating a unique blend of accessibility and depth.
Scattered throughout are recommendations for visitors, including places to stay, eat, and drink. While I, like any true “local,” would probably steer you away from Pat’s or Geno’s for a cheesesteak, the suggestions are solid and incredibly helpful for newcomers to the city.
All of this is delivered through engaging, cohesive, and well-crafted writing that grabs your attention and makes it nearly impossible to put the book down. And the best part? It’s all packed into a pocket-sized format.
Whether it’s a conversation starter or a collectible piece, Glory Studios’ “pocket stories book” is a brilliant addition to any soccer fan’s library. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore Philadelphia’s soccer culture through their lens.
Where can you find it, and how much does it cost?
This gem is priced at an unbelievably low $15 before shipping. If you're worried about ordering from overseas, don’t be—mine arrived quickly and was securely packaged, free of bends or dents. (Well, until my curious 4-year-old got their hands on it!)
You can purchase it directly on Glory’s website (don’t worry, this isn’t an affiliate link—I don’t earn anything from your purchase, though you should buy one). It’s also available at select Barnes & Noble locations, making it easy to grab a copy locally if you prefer.
A huge thank you to Glory for providing the review copy. While they kindly sent both print and digital versions for me to explore, they did not have the opportunity to preview or influence this review in any way. Rest assured, this recommendation is entirely genuine, and no money was exchanged for this review.