Are you fascinated by the mysterious world of organized crime and the notorious figures that have shaped it? If so, you’ll want to check out these 20 best books about the mob. From thrilling true crime accounts to gripping fiction, these books offer a captivating glimpse into the inner workings of the mob and the larger-than-life characters who inhabit it. Whether you’re a true crime fanatic or just looking for a compelling read, these the mob books are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Mob and the City: The Hidden History of How the Mafia Captured New York
by C. Alexander Hortis
The Mob and the City: The Hidden History of How the Mafia Captured New York by C. Alexander Hortis is a captivating book about the mob that delves into the intricate relationship between organized crime and the city of New York. Hortis provides a meticulously researched account of how the Mafia infiltrated various aspects of New York’s political and economic landscape, from the construction industry to the waterfront. Through a combination of historical analysis and firsthand accounts, the author paints a vivid picture of the rise of the Mafia and its impact on the city. With compelling storytelling and a wealth of detail, this the mob book offers an intriguing look at the hidden history of New York’s underworld and the powerful influence of organized crime on urban development.
Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America’s Most Powerful Mafia Empires
by Selwyn Raab
Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America’s Most Powerful Mafia Empires by Selwyn Raab is a gripping book about the mob that delves into the history and operations of the five major Mafia families in New York City. Raab provides an in-depth look at the rise of these powerful criminal organizations, their influence on American society, and their eventual decline due to relentless law enforcement efforts. The book also explores the resurgence of the Mafia in the late 20th century and its continued impact on modern-day organized crime. Raab’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling make Five Families a compelling read for anyone interested in the underworld of organized crime and the inner workings of the mob book.
The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino
by Simon Crittle
The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino by Simon Crittle is a gripping book about the mob that takes readers deep into the underworld of organized crime. It tells the story of Joey Massino, the last don of the infamous Bonanno crime family, and his dramatic rise to power and eventual downfall. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, Crittle paints a vivid and compelling portrait of the mob world, filled with treachery, violence, and betrayal. Readers will be riveted by the larger-than-life characters and the high-stakes power struggles that define this book on the mob. With its fast-paced narrative and rich detail, The Last Godfather is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the shadowy and dangerous world of organized crime.
The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob by T.J. English is a gripping and detailed book about the mob that delves into the notorious Irish-American gang that ruled Hell’s Kitchen in the 1970s and 1980s. English takes readers on a journey through the crime-ridden streets of New York City, offering an inside look at the violent and ruthless world of organized crime. The book explores the rise and fall of the Westies, their connections to the Italian Mafia, and their involvement in various criminal activities, including racketeering, drug trafficking, and murder. With a mix of historical research and firsthand accounts, English paints a vivid and compelling portrait of this infamous gang, shedding light on the inner workings of the mob and the individuals who inhabited this dangerous underworld.
The Good Mothers: The True Story of the Women Who Took on the World’s Most Powerful Mafia
by Alex Perry
The Good Mothers by Alex Perry is a captivating book about the mob that tells the true story of a group of women who took on one of the world’s most powerful Mafia organizations. Perry explores the lives of these courageous women who risked everything to stand up against the mob and bring about justice for their loved ones. The book delves into the dangerous and complex world of organized crime, shedding light on the resilience and determination of these women as they confront the mob head-on. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Perry takes readers on a thrilling and eye-opening journey, uncovering the untold stories of these remarkable women and their fight for justice. The Good Mothers is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, women’s empowerment, and the enduring battle against the mob.
Mob Daughter: The Mafia, Sammy ‘The Bull’ Gravano, and Me!
by Karen Gravano
Mob Daughter is a gripping memoir by Karen Gravano, daughter of infamous mobster Sammy ‘The Bull’ Gravano. In this riveting book about the mob, Karen opens up about her life growing up in the mafia world, her father’s criminal activities, and the impact it had on her. She delves into the complexities of her relationship with her father, the allure of the mob lifestyle, and the ultimate betrayal that led to his cooperation with the authorities. From the inner workings of the mob to the personal struggles of a mob daughter, this book offers a unique and compelling perspective on a notorious underworld. Karen’s candid storytelling and intimate insights make this a must-read for anyone fascinated by the mob and its culture.
Wiseguy, written by Nicholas Pileggi, is a captivating non-fiction book about the mob. It delves into the true story of Henry Hill, a former mobster turned FBI informant, offering a fascinating insider’s perspective on the inner workings of organized crime. Pileggi’s masterful storytelling and Hill’s firsthand accounts provide a gripping and immersive look into the world of the mafia, filled with betrayal, loyalty, and the dangerous allure of the criminal underworld. This mob book is a compelling exploration of the mafia’s intricate network, its code of conduct, and the high-stakes risks involved in a life of crime. Wiseguy offers a thrilling and authentic portrayal of the mob, making it a must-read for anyone intrigued by the darker side of society.
The Godfather, written by Mario Puzo, is a classic novel about the underworld. Set in New York in the 1940s, this gripping tale follows the Corleone family, a powerful and ruthless mafia dynasty. At its heart, The Godfather is a story of family, loyalty, and betrayal within the world of organized crime. Puzo’s vivid storytelling and complex characters bring the reader into a world of power struggles, violence, and the inner workings of the mob. This iconic novel has captivated readers for decades with its intense drama and unforgettable characters. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the mob, organized crime, and the darker side of human nature.
Donnie Brasco by Joseph D. Pistone is an electrifying book about the mob that takes readers deep into the secretive and dangerous world of organized crime. Pistone, an undercover FBI agent, provides a gripping firsthand account of his six years infiltrating the mob as Donnie Brasco. He details the inner workings of the Mafia, the loyalty and betrayal, the violence and the code of silence. Through his eyes, readers gain unprecedented insight into the criminal underworld and the high-stakes risks of undercover work. With its raw and authentic storytelling, this book on the mob offers a rare glimpse into a world that few outsiders have ever seen. Donnie Brasco is a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime and the complexities of the Mafia.
Gomorrah is a gripping exposé on the underbelly of organized crime in Naples, Italy. Roberto Saviano delves into the inner workings of the Camorra, a powerful criminal syndicate that rules over the region with an iron fist. This eye-opening book offers a harrowing glimpse into the violent and ruthless world of drug trafficking, extortion, and money laundering. Saviano’s firsthand account sheds light on the pervasive influence of the mob on every aspect of Neapolitan society, from politics to business to everyday life. Through his fearless and unflinching reporting, he provides a chilling portrayal of the insidious grip that the Camorra has on the city and its inhabitants. Gomorrah is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of organized crime and its far-reaching impact on society.
Five Families by Selwyn Raab is a comprehensive and captivating book on the mob, chronicling the history and inner workings of the Italian-American Mafia in New York City. Raab delves deep into the origins of the mob, its notorious leaders, and their criminal activities, from bootlegging during Prohibition to modern-day racketeering and drug trafficking. With meticulous research and firsthand accounts, the mob book provides a gripping and insightful look into the rise and fall of the five major crime families – Genovese, Gambino, Lucchese, Bonanno, and Colombo. Raab’s narrative is both enlightening and thrilling, offering a compelling exploration of the mob’s influence on American society and its enduring legacy in organized crime. Anyone fascinated by the underworld will find this book about the mob to be a riveting and informative read.
The Last Godfather by Simon Crittle is a gripping book about the mob that delves into the life of the notorious mafia boss, Joseph Massino. This compelling biography takes readers on a journey through the rise and fall of one of the most powerful and feared mobsters in history. Crittle paints a vivid and immersive portrait of Massino’s criminal empire, offering a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the mob. With meticulous research and captivating storytelling, the author brings to life the ruthless world of organized crime, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the underworld. The Last Godfather is a riveting and eye-opening account of one man’s reign as the ultimate godfather of the mob, and a testament to the enduring allure of the criminal underworld.
The Valachi Papers by Peter Maas is a gripping book about the mob that unveils the inner workings of the Mafia through the eyes of its member, Joseph Valachi. This true crime masterpiece delves into the secretive world of organized crime, chronicling Valachi’s experiences within the infamous Cosa Nostra. From his initiation into the mob to his eventual cooperation with law enforcement, the book offers an unprecedented look into the mob’s operations, power struggles, and violent culture. Maas’s detailed storytelling and Valachi’s firsthand accounts provide a compelling and immersive narrative that sheds light on the hidden underworld of the mob. The Valachi Papers is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the history and inner workings of the mob.
I Heard You Paint Houses by Charles Brandt is a gripping non-fiction account of the life of Frank Sheeran, a notorious hitman for the mob. This book delves into the inner workings of the mafia, providing a compelling insider’s perspective on organized crime. Brandt’s writing brings to life the violent and shadowy world of the mob, offering readers a glimpse into the dark and dangerous underworld that Sheeran navigated. With its raw and unflinching portrayal of mob life, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the criminal underworld. It’s not just a book about the mob, it’s a captivating exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the brutal realities of a life lived on the edge of the law.
Underboss by Peter Maas is a gripping book about the criminal underworld, focusing on the life of Salvatore “Sammy the Bull” Gravano, a notorious figure in the Mafia. This enthralling book on the mob delves into the inner workings of organized crime, detailing Gravano’s rise through the ranks and his involvement in various illegal activities. Maas provides a fascinating insight into the shadowy world of the Mafia, exploring the loyalty, betrayal, and violence that define this criminal organization. With vivid storytelling and meticulous research, the author paints a vivid portrait of Gravano and his connections to the mob, offering a captivating glimpse into a dangerous and secretive world. Underboss is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the mob book genre and the complex dynamics of organized crime.
Mafia Prince is a gripping firsthand account of the notorious Philadelphia Mob by former underboss Phil Leonetti, with the insightful expertise of true crime author Scott Burnstein. This explosive memoir takes readers inside the violent and treacherous world of La Cosa Nostra, revealing the inner workings of organized crime and the brutal power struggles within the mafia. Leonetti’s candid narrative provides a chilling portrayal of the mob’s ruthlessness, corruption, and betrayal, as well as his personal journey through the ranks of the criminal underworld. Mafia Prince is a compelling and harrowing true story that offers a rare glimpse into the secretive and dangerous world of the Italian-American mafia. This is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the dark and complex world of organized crime.
The Westies by T.J. English is a gripping book about the mob that delves into the ruthless and notorious Irish-American gang known as the Westies. Set in the gritty streets of Hell’s Kitchen in New York City, this book on the mob explores the gang’s rise to power, their violent reign over the neighborhood, and their connections to the larger organized crime world. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, T.J. English brings to life the brutal and complex world of the Westies, shedding light on their criminal activities, alliances, and eventual downfall. This compelling mob book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the dark and dangerous underworld of organized crime.
The Havana Mob by T.J. English is a gripping book about the mob that explores the turbulent world of organized crime in Havana during the 1950s. English delves into the complex and dangerous web of corruption, power, and violence that characterized the mob’s influence in pre-revolutionary Cuba. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, he paints a vivid portrait of the notorious figures, political entanglements, and illicit activities that defined this tumultuous era. The mob book takes readers on a thrilling journey through the underbelly of Havana, offering a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of organized crime and its impact on Cuban society. With its rich historical detail and compelling narrative, The Havana Mob is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the clandestine world of the mob.
The Brotherhoods by Guy Lawson is a gripping book about the mob that delves into the secretive and deadly world of organized crime. Lawson takes readers on a thrilling journey through the inner workings of two of the most powerful and ruthless criminal organizations in America, the Italian Mafia and the Russian Mob. Through extensive research and in-depth interviews with law enforcement officials and former mobsters, Lawson uncovers the intricate web of alliances, betrayals, and violent power struggles that have shaped the mob book. From the streets of New York to the boardrooms of international corporations, The Brotherhoods provides a fascinating and chilling look at the criminal underworld and the individuals who inhabit it. With its fast-paced narrative and shocking revelations, this book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the dark and dangerous world of organized crime.
The Ice Man by Philip Carlo is a gripping non-fiction book on the mob, telling the chilling true story of Richard Kuklinski, one of the most notorious contract killers in Mafia history. This compelling account delves into the dark underworld of organized crime, portraying Kuklinski’s ruthless and cold-blooded nature as he carried out multiple murders for the mob. With vivid storytelling and detailed insight, Carlo paints a disturbing portrait of a man who lived a double life as a devoted family man and a merciless hitman. The book offers a fascinating and chilling look at the inner workings of the mob, as well as the psychology of a killer. The Ice Man is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the criminal underworld and the complexities of human nature.
Conclusion
There you have it, the 20 best books about The Mob that will take you on a thrilling journey into the world of organized crime. From the rise and fall of notorious mob bosses to the gritty reality of life in the underworld, these books offer a fascinating glimpse into a hidden world. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or simply love a good story, these books are sure to captivate and intrigue you. So grab a copy, settle in, and prepare to be immersed in the gripping, often shocking, tales of the mob.
Which The Mob book is best?
The best book on The Mob can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about The Mob?
For those looking to learn about The Mob, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of The Mob are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best The Mob books of all time?
Choosing the best The Mob books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
