The American Mafia, widely known as the Five Families, has captivated the public's imagination for decades with their illicit activities and larger-than-life personalities. Their story has been immortalized in countless books, each offering a unique perspective on this shadowy world. From Mario Puzo's iconic novel "The Godfather" to Selwyn Raab's meticulously researched "Five Families," these books have shed light on the rise, fall, and resurgence of America's most powerful Mafia empires. Whether you're a seasoned reader of mob literature or just curious about the inner workings of organized crime, this list of standout books on the Five Families is sure to captivate and inform.
Table of Contents
1. The Godfather by Mario Puzo
Contributor: Robert Thompson(Introduction), Peter Bart(Afterword)
Nearly five decades ago, Mario Puzo captivated the world with his groundbreaking novel, "The Godfather" This epic tale of crime, loyalty, and betrayal introduced us to the Corleone family, an unforgettable clan that epitomizes the seductive allure and treacherous pitfalls of the Mafia underworld. From the opening line, "I believe in America," Puzo masterfully draws us into a world where honor and violence are intertwined, where family ties hold absolute sway, and where the pursuit of power comes at a steep price. Through the eyes of Vito Corleone, the patriarch of the Corleone empire, we witness the rise and fall of a criminal dynasty, a gripping saga that has captivated millions of readers and cemented its place as one of the greatest novels of the 20th century.
2. Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America's Most Powerful Mafia Empires by Selwyn Raab
In "Five Families," Selwyn Raab paints a vivid portrait of the rise, decline, and resurgence of America's most powerful Mafia empires. From the streets of New York to the halls of power, Raab traces the tumultuous history of the Five Families—Genovese, Gambino, Bonanno, Colombo, and Lucchese—chronicling their bloody ascent to power and their eventual downfall. Through meticulously researched accounts and exclusive interviews, Raab uncovers the inner workings of these criminal organizations, exposing the secrets, betrayals, and violent power struggles that have defined their existence. A gripping narrative that reads like a crime thriller, "Five Families" offers a fascinating glimpse into the shadowy world of organized crime and its enduring impact on American society.
3. Underboss: Sammy the Bull Gravano's Story of Life in the Mafia by Peter Maas
In "Underboss," Peter Maas takes us on an extraordinary journey into the heart of the Mafia underworld through the eyes of Sammy "The Bull" Gravano, the highest-ranking member of Cosa Nostra to ever defect. As Gravano recounts his rise through the ranks, from foot soldier to underboss of the Gambino crime family, we witness firsthand the brutal realities of life within the Mafia. Maas paints a vivid picture of a world governed by violence, betrayal, and unwavering loyalty, where the bonds of family and honor are tested at every turn. "Brilliantly constructed and grimly fascinating" (New York Times Book Review), "Underboss" offers an unparalleled glimpse into the inner sanctum of organized crime, exploring the complex moral dilemmas and the devastating consequences of betrayal.
4. The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino by Simon Crittle
In "The Last Godfather," Simon Crittle chronicles the rise and fall of Joey Massino, the last don of the Bonanno crime family. Through exclusive interviews and meticulous research, Crittle paints a vivid portrait of Massino's reign, from his brutal takeover of the family to his eventual downfall as a government informant. As the only don to turn state's evidence, Massino's story offers an unparalleled glimpse into the inner workings of the Mafia. Crittle delves into the complexities of Massino's character, exploring his motivations, his unwavering loyalty to his organization, and his ultimate betrayal. "The Last Godfather" is a riveting account of organized crime in New York City, shedding light on the changing landscape of the Mafia and the enduring power of its traditions.
5. The Gotti Wars: Taking Down America's Most Notorious Mobster by John Gleeson
In "The Gotti Wars," John Gleeson recounts his extraordinary journey as the prosecutor who took down infamous mob boss John Gotti. Gleeson's gripping memoir offers a firsthand account of the high-stakes trials that captivated the nation and ultimately led to the downfall of the Gambino crime family. From the brazen murder of Paul Castellano to Gotti's flamboyant reign as "The Teflon Don," Gleeson takes us inside the courtroom battles, revealing the strategies and setbacks that shaped the outcome of these landmark cases. As Gleeson relentlessly pursued justice, he faced intimidation, false accusations, and the daunting task of flipping a notorious mobster. "The Gotti Wars" is a riveting tale of courage, determination, and the triumph of law over organized crime.
6. THE GOOD RAT: A True Story by Jimmy Breslin
In "The Good Rat," Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jimmy Breslin draws us into the gritty world of the Mafia through the unforgettable stories of real-life characters like John Gotti, Sammy "the Bull" Gravano, and the titular "good rat," Burt Kaplan. Breslin's inimitable New York voice narrates this captivating true-crime saga, interweaving the trial of two NYPD detectives accused of gangland executions with vignettes from the annals of Mafia history. Through Kaplan's testimony, we witness the inner workings of organized crime, from the cold-blooded murders carried out by "Gaspipe" Casso to the betrayal that led to Gotti's downfall. Breslin's masterful storytelling captures the moments when the mob was made and broken, taking us on an extraordinary journey through the shadowy underbelly of New York City.
7. The Mafia Encyclopedia by Carl Sifakis
Uncover the intricate world of organized crime with Carl Sifakis' "The Mafia Encyclopedia" This comprehensive guide delves into the lives of infamous mobsters, revealing their criminal techniques and the inner workings of the Mafia's underworld. Sifakis meticulously chronicles the history of the Five Families and the rise and fall of its notorious kingpins. From the Black Hand to the Mustache Petes and beyond, this encyclopedia provides a fascinating glimpse into the shadowy realm of organized crime, leaving readers with a profound understanding of its origins, methods, and impact on society.
8. The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Mafia by Jerry Capeci
Step into the captivating world of organized crime with Jerry Capeci's "The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Mafia" This comprehensive guidebook unveils the inner workings of the most infamous crime organization in history, offering an in-depth look at the Five Families and beyond. Capeci, an acclaimed expert and reporter on all things Mafia, provides a gripping narrative that delves into the shifts in power, tightening of ranks, and the dramatic anecdotes that have shaped the Mafia's legacy. With over 70 pages of new material, including updates on the DeCavalcante family, this book is an essential read for anyone fascinated by the enigmatic world of organized crime.
9. The First Family: Terror, Extortion, Revenge, Murder, and the Birth of the American Mafia by Mike Dash
Immerse yourself in the riveting origins of organized crime in America with Mike Dash's "The First Family." This groundbreaking work delves into the shadowy world of Giuseppe Morello, the infamous "Clutch Hand," and his ruthless gang, revealing the birth of the American Mafia from the lawless streets of Sicily to the bustling neighborhoods of New York. Drawing upon a wealth of untapped sources, including Secret Service archives and firsthand accounts, Dash provides a gripping narrative that exposes the true extent of Morello's criminal empire and the fierce battles waged against him by fearless lawmen. "The First Family" offers a captivating glimpse into a pivotal era, shedding light on the origins and evolution of the criminal underworld that would shape the face of American society for decades to come.
10. The Iceman: The True Story of a Cold-Blooded Killer by Anthony Bruno
Prepare to be chilled to the bone by Anthony Bruno's "The Iceman," the spine-tingling true story of Richard Kuklinski, a remorseless contract killer known as "The Iceman." With a body count exceeding a hundred victims, Kuklinski's arsenal of weapons and methods of murder is as gruesome as it is diverse. From the icy depths of an ice-cream truck freezer to the explosive force of bombs, Kuklinski's reign of terror left a trail of unspeakable suffering in its wake. But his deadly game came to an end when undercover agent Dominick Polifrone infiltrated the mob, risking his own life to bring Kuklinski to justice. "The Iceman" is a chilling journey into the mind of a cold-blooded killer, revealing the twisted motivations and shocking tactics that fueled his reign of terror.
11. The Westies: Inside New York's Irish Mob by T.J. English
In the heart of New York's notorious Hell's Kitchen, T.J. English's "The Westies" paints a chilling portrait of the Irish-American gang that terrorized the city's West Side for decades. From the 1960s to the 1980s, the Westies ruled with an iron fist, their reign of violence and extortion leaving an indelible mark on the neighborhood. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, English brings to life the key figures of this infamous gang, including the hotheaded Jimmie Coonan and the unhinged Mickey Featherstone. "The Westies" is a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the dark side of the American Dream, shedding light on the shadowy world of organized crime and its devastating impact on society.
12. Gangland: How the FBI Broke the Mob by Howard Blum
In the heart of the bustling New York City, "Gangland" by Howard Blum unfolds a gripping tale of the FBI's relentless pursuit to bring down John Gotti, the seemingly untouchable head of the Gambino crime family. This meticulously researched account delves into the inner workings of both the FBI's C-16 Organized Crime squad and Gotti's criminal empire, revealing the deadly game of cat and mouse that ensued. Blum's unprecedented access to FBI records and agents paints a vivid picture of the courage, murder, and betrayal that marked this extraordinary battle. "Gangland" is an instant Mafia classic, offering a thrilling glimpse into the downfall of one of the most notorious crime bosses and the triumph of law enforcement over organized crime.
13. The Last Don by Mario Puzo
Dive into the captivating world of "The Last Don" Mario Puzo's mesmerizing tale that transports us to the nexus of power, wealth, and corruption. The novel unveils the extraordinary life of Domenico Clericuzio, the eponymous Last Don, as he navigates the treacherous waters of organized crime, the movie industry, and the glittering casinos of Las Vegas. As the Clericuzio clan faces threats from within and without, secrets from the past resurface, threatening to ignite a bloody war. Puzo's masterful storytelling weaves a intricate tapestry of lust, violence, and betrayal, immersing readers in a world where power is both intoxicating and perilous. "The Last Don" is a gripping and unforgettable saga that exposes the dark underbelly of society, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who live and die by their own ruthless code.
14. Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family by Nicholas Pileggi
This is a book that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime! "Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family" by Nicholas Pileggi is an acclaimed classic that delves into the captivating world of the five families. Based on the true story of Henry Hill, a former New York gangster turned FBI informant, this gripping tale paints a vivid picture of the inner workings of organized crime. Through Hill's firsthand account, readers will be taken on a thrilling journey through the ranks of the most notorious crime families, witnessing the violence, loyalty, and treachery that define this shadowy underworld. Prepare to be captivated as you gain an unprecedented glimpse into the lives of the men who once ruled the streets of New York City.
Awards:
- Edgar Award(1987)
15. Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas by Nicholas Pileggi
Have you ever wondered what truly happens behind the dazzling lights of Las Vegas casinos? "Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas" by Nicholas Pileggi takes you on an enthralling journey into the underbelly of Sin City, exposing the intricate web of organized crime that once controlled its glamorous nightspots. Through meticulous research and exclusive interviews, Pileggi unveils the captivating tale of Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal and Anthony Spilotro, two ambitious gangsters who schemed to oversee casino operations for the mob. As they navigate a treacherous world of money laundering, skimming, and violence, their partnership unravels amidst betrayal, murder, and an all-out FBI investigation. Delving into the depths of human greed and the fragility of loyalty, "Casino" offers a gripping account of the rise and fall of the Mafia's ironclad grip on Las Vegas, leaving readers with a profound understanding of the dark forces that once lurked beneath the city's glittering facade.
16. The Sicilian by Mario Puzo
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take on an entire nation with nothing but a dream and a small band of loyal followers? "The Sicilian" by Mario Puzo, the legendary author of "The Godfather," takes you on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Sicily, where a modern-day Robin Hood emerges to challenge the oppressive forces that have held his people captive for centuries. Salvatore Giuliano, a charismatic bandit with a heart of gold, becomes a beacon of hope for the downtrodden, leading a rebellion against the corrupt government and the Mafia that has plagued the island. As his legend grows, Giuliano's path intertwines with that of Michael Corleone, the exiled heir to the Corleone crime family in America. Together, they navigate a treacherous landscape of violence, betrayal, and unwavering loyalty, proving that sometimes, the only way to achieve justice is to fight for it with everything you have.
17. The Ice Man: Confessions of a Mafia Contract Killer by Philip Carlo
In a world where loyalty and love can be as deadly as the icy grip of death, "The Ice Man: Confessions of a Mafia Contract Killer" by Philip Carlo pulls you into the chilling true story of Richard Kuklinski, a remorseless killer with a heart as cold as the ice he used to dispose of his victims. Kuklinski's twisted tale begins with a childhood marked by abuse and violence, fueling a thirst for blood that would eventually lead him down a path of unimaginable darkness. As he becomes entangled with the Gambino and Colombo crime families in New York, Kuklinski transforms into a cold-blooded assassin, carrying out gruesome murders with a precision that earned him the nickname "The Ice Man." Through Carlo's meticulous research and exclusive interviews with Kuklinski himself, "The Ice Man" delves deep into the mind of a serial killer, revealing the twisted motivations and emotional detachment that allowed him to commit heinous acts without a shred of remorse. Prepare to be captivated by this horrifying yet fascinating account of a man who made murder his art form, leaving an icy trail of shattered lives in his wake.
18. The Mafia and the Machine: The Story of the Kansas City Mob by Frank R. Hayde
If you've ever been captivated by the inner workings of the Mafia, prepare to delve into a chapter of its history that's as gripping as any tale you've heard before. "The Mafia and the Machine: The Story of the Kansas City Mob" by Frank R. Hayde pulls back the curtain on the notorious Kansas City mob, revealing their deep-rooted connections to some of the most infamous names in organized crime history, including Luciano, Bugsy, and Lansky. With meticulous research and exclusive insights, Hayde weaves a thrilling narrative that explores the symbiotic relationship between the mob and Kansas City's corrupt political machine. From the backroom dealings to the violent power struggles, this book paints a vivid picture of a city where the lines between legitimate authority and criminal enterprise blurred, leaving an indelible mark on the underworld and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of true crime or simply fascinated by the shadowy world of organized crime, "The Mafia and the Machine" is a must-read that sheds new light on a pivotal chapter in American history.
19. The Mafia's President: Nixon and the Mob by Don Fulsom
Uncover a shocking chapter in American history that exposes the sinister alliance between the highest office in the land and the shadowy world of organized crime. "The Mafia's President: Nixon and the Mob" by Don Fulsom delves into the labyrinth of secret dealings and favors exchanged between President Richard Nixon and notorious Mafia figures, including Mickey Cohen, Meyer Lansky, and Jimmy Hoffa. Drawing upon a wealth of newly released government documents and tapes, Fulsom meticulously pieces together a chilling narrative that reveals Nixon's deep indebtedness to these criminal kingpins. From the manipulation of elections to the misuse of federal power, the book unveils a shocking pattern of corruption that reached the very heart of the White House. "The Mafia's President" is not just a historical account; it's a chilling reminder of the insidious connections that can lurk beneath the surface of power. This meticulously researched work is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of politics and crime, offering a sobering insight into the fragility of our democratic institutions when compromised by the darkness that lurks in the shadows.