"Serpico" by Peter Maas is an engrossing non-fiction book that tells the captivating true story of Frank Serpico, a New York City police officer who bravely exposed widespread corruption within the department. Set against the backdrop of the 1960s and 1970s, the book takes readers on a suspenseful journey as Serpico battles against a resistant and oppressive system determined to silence him.
Maas presents a meticulously researched and comprehensive account of Serpico's experiences, offering readers an in-depth understanding of the complex and dangerous world of police corruption. Through vivid storytelling, the author vividly brings the gritty streets of New York City to life, immersing readers in the dark underbelly of the NYPD during this turbulent era.
One of the book's strengths is Maas' ability to portray Serpico as a multi-dimensional character. We witness Serpico's transformation from an idealistic rookie officer to a courageous whistleblower who risks his own safety to expose the pervasive corruption within the force. Maas effectively captures Serpico's internal struggles, illustrating the toll that his actions take on his personal and professional life.
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Furthermore, Maas delves into the profound impact of Serpico's revelations on the public's perception of law enforcement, as well as the subsequent efforts made to reform the police department. The book sheds light on the immense challenges and resistance faced by whistleblowers in their quest for justice, serving as a thought-provoking commentary on the importance of honesty, integrity, and accountability within law enforcement.
In conclusion, "Serpico" is a riveting and thought-provoking account of one man's fight against corruption in the NYPD. Peter Maas skillfully weaves together a narrative that is both informative and gripping, shedding light on the systemic issues that plague law enforcement institutions. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, police corruption, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
What are readers saying?
Serpico by Peter Maas is a true crime book that delves into the life and experiences of Frank Serpico, an honest police officer who exposed corruption within the New York Police Department during the 1970s. Reviews for the book have been varied, with readers expressing different opinions on its merits.
Many readers praised Maas for his meticulous and immersive storytelling. They found the book to be extensively researched and informative, offering a vivid portrayal of the inner workings of the NYPD at that time. The author's writing style was often lauded as engaging and captivating, enabling readers to easily connect with the story and its characters.
Several reviewers commended Serpico for shedding light on the pervasive issue of police corruption and the challenges faced by those who seek to uncover it. They appreciated the book's authentic portrayal of Serpico as a multifaceted and flawed individual, and admired his courage and integrity in standing up against the system.
Nevertheless, some readers felt that the book was overly long and could have been more concise. Certain sections were criticized for dragging on, diluting the overall impact of the story. Additionally, a few reviewers found the writing style monotonous at times, lacking variation in tone and pacing.
In terms of criticism, a small number of readers expressed disappointment in the level of suspense and action within the book. They felt that the narrative focused too heavily on the bureaucratic aspects of Serpico's struggle, which resulted in a slower pace than anticipated.
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