Recs if you like Rats: Observations on the History & Habitat of the City's Most Unwanted Inhabitants...

microhistory: the intensive historical investigation of a well defined smaller unit of research (such as an event, community, individual or a settlement); it aspires to "ask large questions in small places"

title mentions rats? the book goes into this list.

No sweeping ambitions here. We are taking a long, thorough look at one thing. (More or less.) Very open to suggestion!

when the cover is absolutely doing its job correctly

(gorgeous, funny, and uniquely fitting covers, all in one)