Cartoon book explains New York dos, don’ts

NEW YORK — Six years after moving to Manhattan from Ohio, Nathan Pyle has come up with observations about life in New York City; the tips work as well for tourists as they do for transplants.

For example, beware the empty subway car — you don’t want to know why nobody’s in there. And here’s how to ask for directions without annoying the natives: Be succinct.

In his cartoon book, “NYC Basic Tips and Etiquette,” Pyle has compiled dozens of humorous dos and don’ts — including how to tell the difference between the Manhattan Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge (metal vs. blocks!).

Among his other tips: Adhere to the “ideal walking formation” for a pedestrian quartet (not four abreast, but two by two). One $20 umbrella will outlast four $5 umbrellas. Close restaurant doors quickly on a cold day or everyone inside will hate you, and don’t expect to be served if you are also talking on your cellphone.

Also: Don’t be THAT person — who sits on the subway with your stuff taking up the next seat; or who gets to the front of the deli line without knowing what to order.

“There are things we can all agree on,” he says. “I’m talking about the beauty of conformity. This is what we do to make this city work.”