Discover books similar to "Casino"

Nicholas Pileggi

Casino

4.02

"Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas" by Nicholas Pileggi is a compelling exploration of the inner workings of the Las Vegas casino industry during its heyday in the 1970s and 1980s. The book delves into the true story of the rise and fall of Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal, a brilliant and ruthless gangster who ran several of the city's most successful casinos, and his tumultuous relationship with his wife, Geri McGee, a former showgirl and mob associate. Pileggi's meticulously researched and vividly written account offers a fascinating look at the intersection of organized crime, politics, and business in Las Vegas. The author's deep dive into the world of casinos, their owners, and the mobsters who controlled them exposes the corruption, greed, and violence that were rampant in the city during that time. The book's fast-paced narrative and colorful cast of characters, including the feared Chicago Outfit boss Anthony Spilotro, keep readers engaged and on the edge of their seats. Pileggi's ability to weave together the various threads of the story, from the high-stakes gambling and skimming operations to the FBI investigations and mob hits, creates a gripping and unforgettable portrait of a bygone era. "Casino" was later adapted into a successful film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci. However, the book offers a more comprehensive and nuanced view of the story, providing valuable context and depth that the movie could not capture. Overall, "Casino" is a must-read for anyone interested in organized crime, American history, or the allure and danger of the Las Vegas strip. Pileggi's masterful storytelling and attention to detail make this book a captivating and informative read that will leave a lasting impression on readers...

List of books similar to "Casino":

James Ellroy

American Tabloid

If you enjoyed 'Casino's' gritty and fast-paced narrative, you'll love 'American Tabloid' by James Ellroy. This novel is a sprawling crime epic that takes place in the shadows of American power during the 1950s and 1960s. With a similarly sharp eye for detail and an unflinching portrayal of violence and corruption, Ellroy's novel is a must-read for fans of Pileggi's work.

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Nicholas Pileggi

Wiseguy

For a deeper dive into the world of organized crime, check out 'Wiseguy', the non-fiction book that 'Casino' is based on. 'Wiseguy' tells the true story of Henry Hill, a mobster who turned informant and helped bring down some of the most notorious figures in the American Mafia. Pileggi's reporting is meticulous and his storytelling is gripping, making this a must-read for fans of 'Casino'.

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Mario Puzo

The Godfather

If you're looking for a classic mob novel, you can't go wrong with 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo. This sweeping epic tells the story of the Corleone family, one of the most powerful crime families in New York. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plotting, and vivid evocation of the world of organized crime, 'The Godfather' is a must-read for fans of 'Casino'.

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Joseph D. Pistone

Donnie Brasco

For a firsthand account of life in the Mafia, check out 'Donnie Brasco' by Joseph D. Pistone. This book tells the true story of Pistone, an undercover FBI agent who infiltrated the Bonanno crime family in the 1970s. With its gripping storytelling, vivid portrayal of the world of organized crime, and exploration of themes like loyalty, honor, and betrayal, 'Donnie Brasco' is a must-read for fans of 'Casino'.

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Eliot Ness

The Untouchables

For a classic tale of law enforcement versus organized crime, check out 'The Untouchables' by Eliot Ness. This book tells the true story of Ness, the federal agent who led the team that brought down Al Capone during the Prohibition era. With its thrilling storytelling, vivid portrayal of the world of organized crime, and exploration of themes like honor, duty, and the American Dream, 'The Untouchables' is a must-read for fans of 'Casino'.

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