Are you fascinated by the criminal underworld and the lives of notorious mobsters? Dive into the gripping world of organized crime with our list of the 20 best books about mobsters. From the rise and fall of infamous crime bosses to the inner workings of mafia families, these books offer an intimate look at the ruthless and intriguing world of mobsters. Whether you’re a history buff or a true crime enthusiast, there’s a book on mobsters that will captivate and enthrall you. Get ready to be drawn into the dark and dangerous world of the mafia with these compelling mobsters books.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Mobsters Books
- 2 The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino
- 3 The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob
- 4 Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America’s Most Powerful Mafia Empires
- 5 The Mob and the City: The Hidden History of How the Mafia Captured New York
- 6 The Brotherhoods: The True Story of Two Cops Who Murdered for the Mafia
- 7 The Black Hand: The Epic War Between a Brilliant Detective and the Deadliest Secret Society in American History
- 8 The Rise and Fall of the Cleveland Mafia: Corn Sugar and Blood
- 9 The Last Testament of Lucky Luciano: The Mafia Story in His Own Words
- 10 Mob Daughter: The Mafia, Sammy The Bull Gravano, and Me!
- 11 The Godfather
- 12 Wiseguy
- 13 Gomorrah
- 14 I Heard You Paint Houses
- 15 Donnie Brasco: My Undercover Life in the Mafia
- 16 The Valachi Papers
- 17 The Outfit
- 18 The Irishman: Frank Sheeran and Closing the Case on Jimmy Hoffa
- 19 Scarface and the Untouchable: Al Capone, Eliot Ness, and the Battle for Chicago
- 20 Gangsters of Miami: True Tales of Mobsters, Gamblers, Hit Men, and Celebrities
- 21 Mob Boss: The Life of Little Al D’Arco, the Man Who Brought Down the Mafia
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Mobsters Books
- 23
20 Best Mobsters Books
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 captivating and thrilling book about mobsters. This gripping account delves into the life of notorious mob boss Joey Massino, the last godfather of the Bonanno crime family. Crittle takes readers on a journey through the rise of Massino to power and his eventual downfall, painting a vivid picture of the inner workings of organized crime in America.
Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Crittle provides a detailed and intimate portrayal of Massino’s criminal empire, his ruthless tactics, and the betrayal that ultimately led to his conviction. The Last Godfather offers a fascinating insight into the world of the mafia, full of intrigue, betrayal, and power struggles. This mobsters book is a must-read for anyone interested in the gritty and dangerous world of organized crime.
The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob
by T.J. English
The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob by T.J. English is a gripping book about mobsters that delves into the violent and ruthless world of the Irish-American gang known as The Westies. English provides an in-depth look at the rise and fall of this notorious criminal organization, exploring their connections to the Italian Mafia and their reign of terror in Hell’s Kitchen during the 1970s and 1980s.
The book uncovers the inner workings of The Westies, their involvement in organized crime, and their notorious leader, Jimmy Coonan. Through extensive research and interviews with law enforcement officials and former members of the gang, English paints a vivid and chilling portrait of the violent and treacherous world of New York’s underworld.
The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob is a compelling and meticulously researched book on mobsters that offers a rare and fascinating glimpse into the dark and dangerous world of organized crime in America’s most iconic city.
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 on mobsters that delves deep into the history and operations of the most notorious crime syndicates in America. Raab provides a comprehensive overview of the rise of the five families – Bonanno, Colombo, Gambino, Genovese, and Luchese – and their influence on politics, business, and society.
Readers will be engrossed by the intricate details of the mobsters’ activities, from their bootlegging operations during Prohibition to their involvement in labor racketeering, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities. Raab also explores the decline of the mafia empires, including the impact of law enforcement crackdowns and the internal power struggles within the families.
The book about mobsters also highlights the resurgence of the mafia in the modern era, with a focus on the new generation of mobsters and their evolving criminal enterprises. Five Families is a must-read for anyone fascinated by organized crime and the shadowy world of the mobsters.
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 exploration of the rise of organized crime in New York City. This meticulously researched book provides a detailed account of how the mobsters carved out their criminal empire in the heart of the city, and the extent of their influence in various sectors of society.
Hortis delves into the clandestine operations, power struggles, and corrupt alliances that allowed the mobsters to thrive, and the impact of their criminal activities on the city’s politics, economy, and culture. Through extensive interviews, archival records, and newspaper accounts, the author unveils the hidden history of the Mafia’s grip on New York, shedding light on their ruthless tactics and the individuals who played pivotal roles in their criminal enterprise.
This engaging and insightful book about mobsters offers a fresh perspective on the mob’s impact on the city’s development and the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating their illicit activities. The Mob and the City is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of organized crime in New York.
The Brotherhoods: The True Story of Two Cops Who Murdered for the Mafia
by Guy Lawson
The Brotherhoods is a captivating book about two corrupt police officers who became deeply entangled with the Mafia. Author Guy Lawson delves into the true story of how these two cops, Stephen Caracappa and Louis Eppolito, used their positions to commit heinous crimes for the mob. This gripping non-fiction book on mobsters takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dark underbelly of organized crime and law enforcement corruption.
Lawson meticulously unravels the web of deceit and betrayal that surrounded Caracappa and Eppolito, revealing the shocking extent of their criminal activities and the devastating impact they had on countless lives. With meticulous research and riveting storytelling, this mobsters book shines a light on the dangerous and insidious connections between the police and the Mafia. The Brotherhoods is a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime and the shadowy world of organized crime.
The Black Hand: The Epic War Between a Brilliant Detective and the Deadliest Secret Society in American History
by Stephan Talty
The Black Hand: The Epic War Between a Brilliant Detective and the Deadliest Secret Society in American History by Stephan Talty is a gripping non-fiction book about the battle between Joseph Petrosino, a pioneering Italian-American detective, and the deadly secret society known as the Black Hand. The book delves into the sinister world of organized crime in early 20th century America, revealing the brutal tactics and ruthless power struggles of the mobsters of the time.
Talty’s vivid storytelling brings to life the cat-and-mouse game between Petrosino and the Black Hand, as the detective risked his life to dismantle the criminal organization and protect the Italian immigrant community from extortion and violence. The book is a thrilling and immersive exploration of a little-known chapter in American history, filled with intrigue, danger, and the relentless pursuit of justice. The Black Hand is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of organized crime and the brave individuals who fought against it.
The Rise and Fall of the Cleveland Mafia: Corn Sugar and Blood
by Rick Porrello
The Rise and Fall of the Cleveland Mafia: Corn Sugar and Blood by Rick Porrello is a gripping and meticulously researched book about mobsters. Porrello delves deep into the underworld of Cleveland, uncovering the rise and eventual downfall of the mafia in the city. Through extensive interviews, court records, and historical documents, he paints a vivid picture of the ruthless and cunning mobsters who controlled the criminal empire. The book provides an in-depth look at the inner workings of the mafia, from their illicit operations to their violent power struggles. Porrello’s storytelling prowess and attention to detail make this a must-read for anyone interested in the dark and dangerous world of organized crime. The Rise and Fall of the Cleveland Mafia is a fascinating and chilling account of the real-life drama that unfolded within the ranks of the Cleveland mob. It’s a spellbinding journey through the shadowy corridors of power and betrayal.
The Last Testament of Lucky Luciano: The Mafia Story in His Own Words
by Martin A. Gosch and Richard Hammer
The Last Testament of Lucky Luciano: The Mafia Story in His Own Words is a captivating book on mobsters that offers a unique insight into the life of one of the most notorious figures in organized crime. Written by Martin A. Gosch and Richard Hammer, this book presents the firsthand account of Charles “Lucky” Luciano, the legendary mobster who played a pivotal role in shaping the American Mafia.
Through Luciano’s own words, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the seedy underbelly of the criminal world, from his early days as a street thug to his rise as the most powerful crime boss in America. The book delves into the inner workings of the Mafia, its codes of conduct, and the ruthless power struggles that defined Luciano’s reign.
With its gripping narrative and unparalleled access to Luciano’s thoughts, The Last Testament of Lucky Luciano is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the enigmatic world of organized crime. This book about mobsters is a spellbinding account that offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a true mobster.
Mob Daughter: The Mafia, Sammy The Bull Gravano, and Me!
by Karen Gravano
Mob Daughter: The Mafia, Sammy The Bull Gravano, and Me! by Karen Gravano is a gripping memoir that delves into the world of organized crime. Karen Gravano, daughter of notorious mobster Sammy “The Bull” Gravano, provides a raw and intimate account of her life growing up in the Mafia underworld. The book offers a unique perspective on the inner workings of the mob, as well as the personal struggles and conflicts that come with being tied to such a dangerous and secretive lifestyle.
Readers will be drawn into the story of a young woman grappling with her loyalty to her family and the allure of the mobster lifestyle, while also trying to carve out her own path. This candid and eye-opening memoir offers a rare glimpse into the complexities of mob life and the impact it has on those who are connected to it. Whether you’re a fan of true crime stories or simply fascinated by the inner workings of the underworld, this mobsters book is sure to captivate and enlighten readers.
The Godfather
by Mario Puzo
The Godfather by Mario Puzo is a riveting tale of power, family, and betrayal in the world of organized crime. Set in the 1940s, the novel follows the Corleone family, led by the powerful and enigmatic Don Vito Corleone, as they navigate the treacherous underworld of New York City. Puzo masterfully weaves together the stories of the Corleone family members, from the calculating and ruthless Michael to the hot-headed Sonny, creating a rich tapestry of characters and conflicts.
As the Corleone family faces threats from rival mobsters and law enforcement, they must rely on their wits, cunning, and unwavering loyalty to survive. The Godfather is a timeless classic that delves into the complexities of loyalty, honor, and the moral ambiguity of the criminal underworld. It’s a must-read for anyone fascinated by the inner workings of organized crime and the intricate relationships that bind mob families together.
Wiseguy
by Nicholas Pileggi
Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi is a captivating non-fiction book about mobsters and the criminal underworld. Pileggi delves into the true story of Henry Hill, a former member of the Lucchese crime family, and his experiences within the mob. The book provides a gripping and gritty account of Hill’s life, from his early days as a low-level gangster to his involvement in organized crime and his eventual cooperation with the authorities.
Readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the inner workings of the mafia, as Pileggi expertly weaves together Hill’s personal anecdotes with historical context and law enforcement perspectives. The book offers a raw and authentic portrayal of the mobster lifestyle, filled with violence, betrayal, and the constant threat of retribution.
Wiseguy is a mesmerizing and insightful exploration of the criminal underworld, providing readers with a rare glimpse into the secretive and dangerous world of mobsters. Pileggi’s masterful storytelling and attention to detail make this book a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime and the workings of organized crime.
Gomorrah
by Roberto Saviano
Gomorrah by Roberto Saviano is a gripping exposé that takes readers deep into the heart of the Camorra, the notorious Italian crime syndicate. This book on mobsters is a raw and unflinching look at the inner workings of organized crime, revealing the brutality, corruption, and far-reaching influence of the Camorra in Naples and beyond.
Saviano’s firsthand account is a powerful and eye-opening exploration of the mobsters’ world, exposing the connections between crime, business, and politics. Through his courageous and unapologetic writing, he sheds light on the destructive impact of the Camorra on the lives of ordinary people, as well as the pervasive grip it has on every aspect of society.
With its unrelenting narrative and piercing insights, this book about mobsters is a wake-up call that challenges readers to confront the harsh realities of organized crime. Gomorrah is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the criminal underworld and the battle against its insidious influence.
I Heard You Paint Houses
by Charles Brandt
I Heard You Paint Houses by Charles Brandt is a thrilling non-fiction book about the life of Frank Sheeran, a mobster involved in the infamous disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa. The book takes readers through Sheeran’s life, detailing his rise through the ranks of the mafia and his involvement in some of the most notorious crimes of the 20th century. Through Brandt’s meticulous research and interviews with Sheeran, readers are given a rare inside look into the world of organized crime, offering a captivating and often chilling portrayal of the inner workings of the mob.
With its gripping storytelling and fascinating insights, I Heard You Paint Houses is a must-read for anyone interested in the underworld of organized crime. This book about mobsters provides an intriguing glimpse into the hidden world of the mafia and the larger-than-life characters that inhabited it. Brandt’s vivid and detailed narrative will keep readers on the edge of their seats, making this mobsters book an unforgettable and compelling read.
Donnie Brasco: My Undercover Life in the Mafia
by Joseph D. Pistone
Donnie Brasco: My Undercover Life in the Mafia is a gripping memoir by Joseph D. Pistone, an FBI agent who went undercover as a jewel thief to infiltrate the Bonanno crime family in the 1970s. The book offers a fascinating firsthand account of Pistone’s harrowing experiences as he delved deep into the dangerous and secretive world of organized crime. As Pistone navigates the treacherous underworld, readers are taken on a thrilling and suspenseful journey, witnessing the complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and survival within the mafia.
Through vivid storytelling, the author provides a unique perspective on the inner workings of the mafia, shedding light on the intricate web of relationships and the code of silence that governs this clandestine society. With its raw and authentic portrayal of life among mobsters, this book offers a captivating insight into a world few have experienced firsthand. Donnie Brasco is a compelling and eye-opening read for anyone interested in the hidden workings of organized crime.
The Valachi Papers
by Peter Maas
The Valachi Papers is a gripping book about mobsters written by Peter Maas. This captivating non-fiction work delves into the inner workings of the Mafia, offering an unprecedented insider’s view of the notorious criminal organization. The book follows the life of Joseph Valachi, a low-level member of the Mafia who decides to cooperate with law enforcement and expose the inner workings of the mob. Valachi’s revelations provide a fascinating and often chilling look into the world of organized crime, detailing the hierarchy, rituals, and violent activities of the mobsters. Maas’s meticulous research and powerful storytelling make The Valachi Papers an enthralling and eye-opening read for anyone interested in the underworld of organized crime. With its raw and unflinching portrayal of the criminal underworld, this mobsters book has become a classic in the true crime genre, offering a compelling and illuminating look into the hidden world of the Mafia.
The Outfit
by Gus Russo
The Outfit by Gus Russo is a gripping non-fiction book about the notorious Chicago mob, also known as the syndicate or the organization. This meticulously researched and compelling work delves into the history, power, and influence of the mobsters who ruled the Windy City with an iron fist. Russo takes readers on a thrilling journey through the rise of the Outfit, its infamous leaders, and their ruthless reign over the criminal underworld.
Readers will be captivated by the intricate web of corruption, violence, and power struggles that defined the Outfit’s operations. Russo skillfully blends historical facts with vivid storytelling, bringing to life the larger-than-life characters and the gripping events that shaped the mob’s legacy. Whether you’re a history buff, a true crime enthusiast, or simply love a good drama, The Outfit is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the shadowy world of organized crime. Prepare to be immersed in a thrilling, real-life tale of power, betrayal, and survival in the treacherous world of mobsters.
The Irishman: Frank Sheeran and Closing the Case on Jimmy Hoffa
by Charles Brandt
The Irishman: Frank Sheeran and Closing the Case on Jimmy Hoffa by Charles Brandt is a gripping book about mobsters that delves into the life of Frank Sheeran, a notorious hitman for the mafia. Sheeran’s story is intertwined with the mysterious disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa, the powerful Teamsters union leader. The book takes readers on a journey through the underworld of organized crime, detailing Sheeran’s involvement in some of the most notorious mob hits and his close ties to Hoffa.
Author Charles Brandt presents a fascinating account of Sheeran’s life, drawing from extensive interviews and research to paint a vivid picture of the mobsters and their brutal world. The book not only provides a gripping narrative of Sheeran’s criminal activities, but also offers new insights into the unsolved case of Hoffa’s disappearance, shedding light on the possible truth behind the mystery.
The Irishman is a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime and the hidden world of mobsters, offering a compelling and shocking account of one man’s life and his connections to one of the most infamous figures in American history.
Scarface and the Untouchable: Al Capone, Eliot Ness, and the Battle for Chicago
by Max Allan Collins
Scarface and the Untouchable: Al Capone, Eliot Ness, and the Battle for Chicago by Max Allan Collins is a gripping and immersive account of the notorious mobster Al Capone and the relentless pursuit of justice by lawman Eliot Ness. This meticulously researched book delves into the ruthless world of organized crime in Chicago during the Prohibition era, offering a compelling narrative filled with larger-than-life characters, high-stakes conflicts, and a city in the grip of corruption and violence.
With meticulous attention to detail and a fast-paced storytelling style, Collins brings to life the cat-and-mouse game between Capone and Ness, as well as the inner workings of the criminal underworld and the courageous efforts of law enforcement to bring down one of the most infamous mobsters in history. Scarface and the Untouchable is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the dark and dangerous world of mobsters, prohibition-era crime, and the tireless pursuit of justice.
Gangsters of Miami: True Tales of Mobsters, Gamblers, Hit Men, and Celebrities
by Ron Chepesiuk
Gangsters of Miami: True Tales of Mobsters, Gamblers, Hit Men, and Celebrities by Ron Chepesiuk is a gripping book about mobsters that delves into the criminal underworld of Miami. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, the author uncovers the notorious figures and their illicit activities that dominated the city’s landscape. From the rise of powerful crime families to the high-stakes gambling scene and the brutal tactics of hit men, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into the dark and dangerous world of organized crime.
Chepesiuk also sheds light on the unexpected connections between mobsters and celebrities, revealing the intertwining of criminal and entertainment circles in Miami. The book presents a compelling blend of history, true crime, and celebrity gossip, making it a must-read for anyone intrigued by the shadowy realm of organized crime. With its compelling narratives and in-depth exploration of Miami’s underworld, Gangsters of Miami is a captivating and informative book on mobsters that will leave readers engrossed from start to finish.
Mob Boss: The Life of Little Al D’Arco, the Man Who Brought Down the Mafia
by Jerry Capeci
Mob Boss: The Life of Little Al D’Arco, the Man Who Brought Down the Mafia by Jerry Capeci is a gripping and revealing book on mobsters that takes readers deep into the world of organized crime. Through the eyes of Al D’Arco, a former acting boss of the Luchese crime family, readers are given an inside look at the inner workings of the Mafia.
From his early days as a low-level hood to his rise to power within the Luchese family, D’Arco’s story is one of power, violence, and betrayal. Capeci expertly weaves together D’Arco’s personal experiences with the larger history of the Mafia, providing a comprehensive and engaging account of this notorious criminal organization.
But what sets this book apart is D’Arco’s decision to become a government informant, ultimately leading to the downfall of numerous mobsters and the dismantling of the Luchese family. It’s a story of redemption, courage, and the ultimate betrayal of the Mafia code of silence. Mob Boss is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the underworld and the complex lives of mobsters.
Final Thoughts on Best Mobsters Books
So there you have it, the 20 best books about Mobsters that offer a fascinating glimpse into the underworld of organized crime. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the mafia or intrigued by the gritty reality of mob life, these books provide an immersive and thrilling reading experience. From true crime accounts to fictional tales of power and betrayal, there’s something for every fan of books about mobsters in this comprehensive list. Dive into these gripping stories and uncover the captivating world of organized crime.
Which book about Mobsters is best?
The best book on Mobsters can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino by Simon Crittle,
- The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob by T.J. English,
- Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America’s Most Powerful Mafia Empires by Selwyn Raab.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Mobsters?
For those looking to learn about Mobsters, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino by Simon Crittle,
- The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob by T.J. English,
- Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America’s Most Powerful Mafia Empires by Selwyn Raab,
- The Mob and the City: The Hidden History of How the Mafia Captured New York by C. Alexander Hortis,
- The Brotherhoods: The True Story of Two Cops Who Murdered for the Mafia by Guy Lawson,
- The Black Hand: The Epic War Between a Brilliant Detective and the Deadliest Secret Society in American History by Stephan Talty,
- The Rise and Fall of the Cleveland Mafia: Corn Sugar and Blood by Rick Porrello,
- The Last Testament of Lucky Luciano: The Mafia Story in His Own Words by Martin A. Gosch and Richard Hammer,
- Mob Daughter: The Mafia, Sammy The Bull Gravano, and Me! by Karen Gravano,
- The Godfather by Mario Puzo
These books offer a range of perspectives on Mobsters, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Mobsters?
The best books about Mobsters are:
- The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino by Simon Crittle,
- The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob by T.J. English,
- Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi,
- Gomorrah by Roberto Saviano,
- The Last Testament of Lucky Luciano: The Mafia Story in His Own Words by Martin A. Gosch and Richard Hammer,
- The Black Hand: The Epic War Between a Brilliant Detective and the Deadliest Secret Society in American History by Stephan Talty.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Mobsters 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 Mobsters books of all time?
Choosing the best Mobsters books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino by Simon Crittle,
- The Westies: Inside New York’s Irish Mob by T.J. English,
- The Brotherhoods: The True Story of Two Cops Who Murdered for the Mafia by Guy Lawson,
- The Last Testament of Lucky Luciano: The Mafia Story in His Own Words by Martin A. Gosch and Richard Hammer,
- and Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Mobsters and continues to be influential today.