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We’ve read a bunch of books about John Gotti and have compiled our list of the best ones. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive biography or an insider account of his life, we’ve got you covered.
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We've done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the Best Books About John Gotti. Our list is based on user reviews, so you can be sure that these are the best books out there on this topic.
John Gleeson
In The Gotti Wars: Taking Down America’s Most Notorious Mobster, former Assistant US Attorney John Gleeson recounts his incredible journey to take down the infamous Gambino family crime boss John Gotti.
1. The Gotti Wars: Taking Down America's Most Notorious Mobster by John Gleeson
What Is This Book About
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to take on one of the most feared mobsters in America? In The Gotti Wars: Taking Down America’s Most Notorious Mobster, former Assistant US Attorney John Gleeson recounts his incredible journey to take down the infamous Gambino family crime boss John Gotti.
The story is full of thrilling twists and turns as we join Gleeson on his mission to prove Gotti had been running organized crime activities through the Gambino crime family in New York City. We learn how Gotti rose to power and ultimately his dramatic fall from it. This is not just any detective case—it was a seven-month battle, full of moments of peril and courage, and a resolute determination by Gleeson to pursue the truth no matter what the costs.
Gleeson discovers firsthand how vicious and yet devious Gotti could be when he's falsely charged with serious crimes by a defense witness intimidated by none other than Gotti himself! He was in charge of the second investigation and trial which resulted in Gotti's murder conviction.
Read this captivating, page-turning story to discover how justice is served in The Gotti Wars—a mesmerizing legal drama that you won’t soon forget!
Why You Will Love It
You will love The Gotti Wars because it is an enthralling, captivating courtroom drama. You will be hooked from start to finish as you discover how good eventually prevailed over evil and justice was served. In this book, Gleeson manages to make the oft-told tale of Gotti’s downfall fresh with a new perspective.
You will also gain insight into the incredible transformation of John Gleeson, the protagonist at the center of this story. His in-depth accounts reveal his perspective and wisdom on the long and arduous war that he fought against Gotti. The former federal prosecutor Gleeson chronicles his intense efforts to bring John Gotti to justice. You won't want to put this spellbinding book down until you know the outcome!
John A. Gotti and Peter Lance
This captivating book by John A. Gotti and Peter Lance brings together a unique blend of captivating storytelling and hard-hitting history.
2. Shadow of My Father by John A. Gotti and Peter Lance
What Is This Book About
Are you curious about the Gotti family's connection to organized crime? Explore the untold story of the proud, yet infamous, family name in Shadow of My Father, now available on this website. This captivating book by John A. Gotti and Peter Lance brings together a unique blend of captivating storytelling and hard-hitting history.
From the Inside Cover “My father, John Joseph Gotti Jr., was a mob Boss unlike any other who ever lived before or since. His remarkable reign ended after years of tabloid headlines and legal wrangling all over North America that culminated in his 1992 indictment…But until now few have had any inkling of what it was truly like to be me…to grow up under my father’s intense protection—and risk being sent away one day if I refused to join La Cosa Nostra. In prison, Dad often talked as if he were entrusting me with his life’s story…..in this book I share this incredible saga through my firsthand experience….”
This riveting read offers an intimate look into a life shrouded in mystery yet with grandiose events that will astound even the most jaded reader.
Why You Will Love It
You will love this book, Shadow of My Father by John A. Gotti and Peter Lance because it takes you on a fascinating journey of the rise and fall of organized crime in America. You will learn from an insider’s view how law enforcement used both the letter and spirit of the law to prosper their careers, as well as some of the key influencing elements that lead to redemption. You won’t find these stories elsewhere; make sure to read Shadow of My Father to experience the grandeur and gravity of these events for yourself!
3. Gotti: Rise and Fall by Jerry Capeci and Gene Mustain
The US Bestseller
This electrifying book brings you behind-the-scenes access to his rise and subsequent fall from power.
What Is This Book About
Welcome to Gotti: Rise and Fall by Jerry Capeci and Gene Mustain. From the tough streets of Queens to the heights of the American Mafia, John Gotti was a giant in his own right. This electrifying book brings you behind-the-scenes access to his rise and subsequent fall from power. Packed with authoritative journalism, this incredible story will have you hooked as you read more about the ruthless, brutal, and always immaculately dressed figure known as the 'Teflon Don'. No charge could stick against him - but was it a win anyway? A riveting narrative awaits!
Friendly yet fearless, Gotti provokes an array of emotions - admiration, surprise, repulsion - yet still beguiles us into wanting to know more. Jerry Capeci and Gene Mustain's account offers an exclusive insight into this controversial kingpin. Their compelling narrative style gives unique access for readers to truly appreciate the size and scale of Gotti’s power at its peak. Learn about his lifestyle choices as well as get acquainted with some of New York’s finest money-makers along with their myriad opponents.
It’s your chance to learn firsthand how one man survived at the top while so many others crashed and burned - if they weren’t murdered first! Turn each page knowing that after every detail you must ask: Was Gotti's ending victorious or inevitable? You decide when you finish the gripping story of Rise and Fall.
Why You Will Love It
"Gotti: Rise and Fall" by Jerry Capeci and Gene Mustain is described as the definitive account of how New York's last great Godfather was finally brought to justice. The authors' combination of well-researched facts and gripping storytelling bring the notorious life of John Gotti to vivid life, including details about the Castellano murder, the different Gotti trials, the inner workings of the Gambino family, plus the efforts of law enforcement to bring him down. You can trust this book to be an engaging read as it covers all must-know information from these reliable sources.
Authors of Murder Machine
These two award-winning authors delve deep into their investigation surrounding John Gotti’s amazing life, unraveling an intriguing story from his rise in the mafia ranks to his impact on the worldwide criminal underground.
4. Mob Star: The Story of John Gotti by Gene Mustain, Jerry Capeci
What Is This Book About
Are you fascinated by the incredible story of John Gotti? Then you need to check out Mob Star: The Story of John Gotti, co-authored by Gene Mustain and Jerry Capeci, two of the best when it comes to bringing to life engaging stories from the underworld.
These two award-winning authors delve deep into their investigation surrounding John Gotti’s amazing life, unraveling an intriguing story for readers to explore. From his rise in the mafia ranks to his impact on the worldwide criminal underground, this book is sure to captivate its audience from start to finish.
Gotti's battle with terminal cancer as he lives out his last days in prison provides a poignant backdrop for this epic tale. It’s sure to get people talking and become even more relevant in media circles. With Gene Mustain and Jerry Capeci at the helm, we are certain no detail will be overlooked! So whether you're looking for some wild tales or just curious about one of mob history’s iconic figures, Mob Star: The Story of John Gotti has got you covered! Check it out - it won't disappoint!
Why You Will Love It
You will love Mob Star: The Story of John Gotti by Gene Mustain and Jerry Capeci because of the way they effortlessly draw their readers into the complex criminal underworld of John Gotti. They provide an unbiased account of his rise to power, all the while showcasing a respectful attitude towards the characters involved. Written in a richer narrative, this book is sure to make any reader question morality and authority, as well as wonder why Gotti was such a threat to those close to him. You won't come away from this book without gaining some fresh viewpoints on organized crime and its players.
Best Books on The War of 1812 FAQs
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What did John Gotti say about Sammy Gravano on the tapes?
On the tapes of conversations between John Gotti and his associates, the infamous mob boss had a lot to say about Sammy “The Bull” Gravano. He esteemed him highly due to his loyalty, describing him as “a good soldier”. Further conversations revealed that he also admired Gravano’s operational skills, particularly regarding murder and drug trafficking. Gotti was aware of Gravano’s precarious situation with the Gambino family's capo Paul Castellano, who wanted to have Gravano eliminated for being too violent and independent-minded. As such, Gotti saw an opportunity not just for protecting a friend but also to weaken an enemy by recruiting Gravano into his inner circle and using these skills on his behalf of himself rather than Castellano. This speaks volumes about the level of confidence that Gotti had in Gravano's abilities and goes some way towards explaining why he valued him so much despite their tumultuous relationship at times.
Is John Gotti based on a true story?
Yes, John Gotti is based on the true story of one of the most notorious organized crime figures in America.
John Gotti was born in 1940 in the Bronx, New York, and grew up in a rough neighborhood. As a teenager, he developed a reputation as a tough guy and soon joined what would become known as The Gambino Crime Family. After working his way up through the ranks and becoming loyal to then-boss Paul Castellano, Gotti gained fame for his shrewd and ruthless tactics when Castellano was assassinated by him during an internal power struggle within The Gambino's hierarchy. This action made him heir apparent for the top role which he assumed at age 45 upon succeeding Paul Castellano as Don or Boss of The Gambino's organization.
Gotti quickly became one of America’s most powerful crime bosses from 1985 until 1992 when his reign came to an end when he was convicted on multiple racketeering charges after a highly publicized trial resulting in several convictions including murder conspiracy that landed him life imprisonment without parole at Marion Federal Penitentiary—where he died ten years later due to complications associated with throat cancer.
His bold criminal antics earned him nicknames such as Teflon Don (due to criminal cases against him not "sticking") and Dapper Don (for his style). He even inspired movies like “Gotti” starring John Travolta which brought back memories of this awesomely notorious career criminal that remains legendary today despite its darker undertones..
Why is Gotti so famous?
John Gotti was one of the most famous associates within organized crime circles in the U.S. during his lifetime and continues to be a legend today, decades after his death. Popularly known as "The Teflon Don", for his ability to evade conviction in numerous criminal trials throughout the 1980s, Gotti is remembered as an ambitious leader of the Gambino crime family who amassed a great deal of power and influence.
Gotti first entered the public consciousness when he was involved in ordering hits on high-ranking members of rival crime families, including Paul Castellano - former head of the Gambino family - and Thomas Bilotti. He rose quickly through the ranks before being named boss by 1986 following Castellano's assassination; at this point, Gotti became one of New York's most powerful mobsters, often appearing frequently on tabloid covers throughout his tenure as boss between 1986 and 1992. This notoriety continued even after he was convicted for murder conspiracy charges in 1992 following The FBI's massive investigation into organized crime dubbed “Operation Gemini” which targeted him specifically. Even then, Gotti remained popular among some sections of American society due to his flamboyant lifestyle and charismatic personality; despite rumors that some jury members accused him and didn't convict him based on admiration for him because he stuck it to "the man".
Are there any Gottis still alive?
Yes, there are Gottis still alive today. The Gotti family is a very powerful and influential Italian-American organized crime syndicate that has been around for centuries. As of 2020, the most notable living members of the Gotti family are John A. "Junior" Gotti and his son Carmine Gotti Agnello who have both chosen to stay involved with their family’s legacy by creating books and documentaries about it.
Overall, although there have been several changes among prominent members throughout generations past, it appears that new faces have emerged ready to take on challenges ahead hopefully leading to positive results and ensuring a bright future for these individuals going forward into the 21st century.
Who was Gottis' best friend?
John “Sas” Gotti was the late Gambino family mob boss John Gotti’s best friend. Sas and Gotti grew up together in South Brooklyn and were practically inseparable from a young age. The two had an unbreakable brotherly bond, having spent countless hours together playing sports, smoking cigars, and committing petty crimes as teenagers.
John “Jackie Nose” D'Amico (or "Nose" to his friends) was also very close to John Gotti - much closer than many of his other associates. He worked closely with Gotti on financial matters and often traveled with him, even before becoming a made man himself in 1985. Unlike most members of the mafia, Jackie Nose never held an official gangster title but he still found success through his career as an accountant and investor for various underworld operations, making sure that money flowed correctly between customers, vendors, and crew members throughout the organization.
Who owns the Gotti house now?
The Gotti house is located in the Howard Beach section of Queens, New York, and is now owned by real estate mogul Michael DiMaggio. After the death of notorious mob boss John Gotti in 2002, family members were evicted from the property. Initially, the home was purchased at a public auction for $657,000 in 2003 by record producer Daren Rubell but he failed to pay off his mortgage and subsequently defaulted on it.
In 2014, Michael DiMaggio bought the lavish mansion with plans to restore it to its former glory. Since then he has been carefully renovating each room according to its original style and design; refinishing details such as built-in cabinets and moldings that stayed untouched for over a decade. He also upgraded several outdated appliances including air conditioning units and plumbing fixtures throughout the four-story house which has eight bathrooms total.
Where was John Gotti's favorite restaurant?
John Gotti was known to frequent many restaurants throughout his life in his home city of New York, with Rao’s being one of the most frequently visited. The restaurant first opened in 1896 and is located at 455 East 114th Street in East Harlem.
Gotti was a customer at Rao's for over 30 years and had an unspoken “membership” there since he never had to wait for a table, which was always reserved for him by name. He also allegedly threw thousands of dollars worth of cash onto the roof every few months as payment - patrons would then climb on top of a ladder outside the restaurant door to retrieve it.
Are there any credible reviews about the book The Gotti wars?
Washington Post considers this book “A meticulous chronicle of good triumphing over evil…Gleeson manages to make the oft-told tale of Gotti's downfall fresh with new perspective, insight, wisdom, and humor…. The book convincingly argues that along with ensuring Gotti's conviction other information Gravano provided and the precedent he set caused other high-ranking mobsters to flip, dealing a virtual death blow to the American Mafia.”
John Miller, former co-anchor of 20/20 considers that this book is “unflinchingly honest…contains moments that are both frightening and funny. I covered the rise and fall of John Gotti for seven years—through three trials and a dozen murders. I thought I knew this story inside and out, but this book shows I was mistaken. As John Gleeson tells the full story of how he built his ironclad case, you’ll feel like you’re sitting in the room where it happened—with the same nerve-jangling anticipation of how it will all turn out.”
Library Journal considers that this book is “compelling…Gleeson has crafted this retelling as carefully as he prepped the two cases [against the mobster]. His description of the politics behind the scenes and his interactions with the likes of U.S. Attorney Rudy Giuliani and Attorney General Bill Barr is icing on the cake….Do we need yet another book on Gotti? Gleeson answers the question with a resounding yes.”
Before the defense witness, Gotti intimidated or did Gotti intimidate the defense witness?
If you’re referring to John Gotti, then it’s quite likely that he did intimidate defense witnesses at various points during his career.
Gotti was known for having a notoriously short temper and had a reputation as an intimidating presence in the courtroom. He often used tactics such as strong-arming, threats, and intimidation of court personnel to gain an upper hand in trials. In one particular case, Gotti ordered two of his associates to “put pressure” on a witness who was about to testify against him by threatening them with physical harm if they cooperated with prosecutors.
In addition, Gotti also attempted to bribe witnesses or have them recant their testimony on multiple occasions before trial or even during open court proceedings. On at least one occasion, Gotti intimidated witnesses through verbal tirades and physical violence outside of the courtroom with the apparent intent of influencing their testimonies against him negatively.
Conclusion
If you're looking for the best books about John Gotti, we've done the hard work for you. We spent tens of hours reading through Amazon customer reviews to find the ones that might match your interests. Just click on one of the buttons above to check out our top picks!
