Best Reads 2012

Twelve stories we loved in 2012.

Ode to the Poets (March)

Thirty years ago, the Dunbar Poets were the greatest show on hardwood. A look back at that storied hoops team and the showdown that wasn’t with Calvert Hall. By Mike Unger

Field of Dreams (April)

A look back at Camden Yards—its start, its intricacies, and how it became a legend in the landscape. By Jess Blumberg

Cupcake Crooks (May)

The Bizarre Lives Of The Men Behind The Most Brazen Heist In Maryland History. By Justin Snow

War of 1812 (June)

First, Consider that a full-fledged war has only touched Baltimore once in its 300-year history. Then, consider how little Baltimoreans know about it. We're here to fix that, so read on. By Ken Iglehart

Wall Pass (June)

An unlikely partnership produces a street-art spectacle to lure visitors to Station North. By John Lewis

Livin’ The Dream (June)

For a band that makes such heavenly music, Beach House is incredibly down to earth. By John Lewis

Emily’s Milk and Honey (September)

One local teenager’s ripple effect makes waves in other young people’s futures in Rwanda. By Joanna Franklin Bell

Stick-Up Artist (October)

Little Vinnie transforms breast-cancer survivors with his tattoos. By Jane Marion

Slumlord Justice (October)

A Pigtown woman outs owners of blighted properties in Baltimore’s neighborhoods. By Ron Cassie

A Great Day in Baltimore (October)

Despite the economy, the local arts scene keeps thriving, generating excellent work, a calendar full of can't-miss events, and even a few genius ideas — like OrchKids. By John Lewis

Academy Reward (November)

Actor Clarke Peters came to Baltimore for The Corner and The Wire; he stayed for the people. By John Lewis

To Fur, With Love (November)

How furrier Mano Swartz has defied the odds and stuck around for 123 years. By Jane Marion