We're leaving for New York next week and I just realized every guidebook I own is too bulky to fit in a purse. I really don't want to carry a backpack around on this trip. My plan is to carry only a purse (and a raincoat!). Any suggestions? We'll be spending most of our time mid town. I already own Access New York City, but it's too heavy for what I have in mind.

Miranda,

I have the Lonley Planet New York City condensed guide. It's small so it's easy to carry with you. It has a detailed Manhattan street and subway map. I always take it with me whenever I go to the City.

We used the heck out of out Fodor's CityPack New York.

Great compact size and has subway maps and street map also.

Haven't seen the Lonely Planet guide but it sounds similar.

Another vote for the Lonely Planet condensed guide. Found it very handy.

We used "New York" Knopf City map guides with great success and ease.
Small light weight smaller than T.V.guide .Has city divided into districts asowntown,SoHo,TriBeCa
,Times Square,Upper Eastside etc.
Inside has restaurants ,sights & entertainments for each district. then
page flips up and a map of the said district show all the streets and some places highlighted.Inside back cover are maps for Manhattan Bus and subway routes.
It was the most useful small guide book I have ever used. (cost $8.95)
Good luck...