Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America's Most Powerful Mafia Empires : Book Review

"Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America's Most Powerful Mafia Empires" by Selwyn Raab offers readers a captivating and in-depth exploration of the history, influence, and transformation of the five major Mafia families in America. Raab, an esteemed journalist and expert on organized crime, presents a meticulously researched account that spans over a century, delving into the inner workings of these Italian-American crime syndicates.

One of the strengths of this book is the author's attention to detail and extensive research. Raab takes readers on a journey, uncovering the origins of each family and tracing their rise to power. The author provides historical context and deep insights into the workings of these families, offering a comprehensive narrative that keeps readers engaged.

What sets "Five Families" apart is Raab's ability to present an unbiased perspective. He explores not only the criminal activities of these families, including their involvement in illegal gambling, drug trafficking, and labor racketeering, but also examines their impact on society as a whole. Raab sheds light on the complex relationships between the Mob, politics, and legitimate businesses, providing a well-rounded view of the Mafia's influence.

Another strength of the book is Raab's skill in contextualizing the Mafia within a larger historical and sociopolitical framework. From the Prohibition era to the efforts of the Kennedys to crackdown on organized crime, Raab explores the ever-changing landscape and challenges faced by these families. By doing so, he helps readers understand the external factors that influenced the rise and fall of these Mafia empires, turning this book into as much a history lesson as a riveting true crime account.

In conclusion, "Five Families" by Selwyn Raab is an engrossing and comprehensive exploration of the Italian-American Mafia. With meticulous research, an unbiased perspective, and historical context, Raab provides a compelling account of the rise, decline, and resurgence of these powerful crime syndicates. Whether you are interested in true crime or American history, this book will captivate and educate you.

What are readers saying?

"Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America's Most Powerful Mafia Empires" by Selwyn Raab is a highly acclaimed book that offers an in-depth exploration of the history and inner workings of the five prominent Mafia families in New York City. With over 1,700 reviews, this comprehensive account has captured the attention of readers and boasts an impressive average rating of 4.25 stars.

Reviewers unanimously praised Raab's meticulous research and extensive knowledge of the subject matter. They commended his ability to seamlessly weave together a captivating narrative while maintaining historical accuracy. Readers found the book both engaging and informative, often describing it as a gripping page-turner.

Many reviewers were drawn to Raab's impartiality and objective approach to writing about the Mafia. They appreciated that the author presented facts and events without sensationalism or glorification, allowing readers to form their own opinions. Raab's unbiased perspective was especially lauded, as it provided a well-rounded understanding of the rise and fall of the Mafia.

Additionally, readers were captivated by Raab's inclusion of personal anecdotes and interviews with key figures from the Mafia. These firsthand accounts added depth and authenticity to the narrative, providing readers with unique insights into the inner workings of the crime families. Reviewers found these anecdotes particularly fascinating and considered them to be one of the highlights of the book.

The only criticism of "Five Families" was its length, with a few reviewers mentioning that it can be overwhelming for readers unfamiliar with the subject matter. However, many appreciated the thoroughness of Raab's research and were willing to invest the time and effort required to explore the intricate details of the Mafia's history.

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