Title
Smalltime: A Story of My Family and the Mob,New
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A Kirkus Reviews Best Nonfiction Book of 2021Family secrets emerge as a bestselling author dives into the history of the mob in smalltown America.Bestselling author Russell Shorto, praised for his incisive works of narrative history, never thought to write about his own past. He grew up knowing his grandfather and namesake was a smalltown mob boss but maintained an unspoken family vow of silence. Then an elderly relative prodded: Youre a writerwhat are you gonna do about the story?Smalltime is a mob story straight out of central castingbut with a difference, for the smalltown mob, which stretched from Schenectady to Fresno, is a mostly unknown world. The location is the brawny postwar factory town of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. The setting is City Cigar, a storefront next to City Hall, behind which Russ and his brotherinlaw, Little Joe, operate a gambling empire and effectively run the town.Smalltime is a riveting American immigrant story that travels back to Risorgimento Sicily, to the ancient, dusty, hilltown home of Antonino Sciotto, the authors greatgrandfather, who leaves his wife and children in grinding poverty for a new lifeand wifein a Pennsylvania mining town. Its a tale of Italian Americans living in squalor and prejudice, and of the rise of Russ, who, like thousands of other young men, created a copy of the American establishment that excluded him. Smalltime draws an intimate portrait of a mobster and his wife, sudden riches, and the toll a lawless life takes on one family.But Smalltime is something more. The author enlists his ailing fatherTony, the mobsters sonas his partner in the search for their troubled patriarch. As secrets are revealed and Tonys health deteriorates, the book become an urgent and intimate exploration of three generations of the American immigrant experience. Moving, wryly funny, and richly detailed, Smalltime is an irresistible memoir by a masterful writer of historical narrative. 8 blackandwhite illustrations
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does 'Smalltime: A Story of My Family and the Mob' have? A: This book has two hundred seventy-two pages. It's a comprehensive exploration of family and mob history in America.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The binding type is hardcover. This durable format is ideal for long-term reading and collection.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Smalltime'? A: The author is Russell Shorto. He is known for his narrative history and personal storytelling.
- Q: What is the size of 'Smalltime'? A: The book measures six point three inches in length, one inch in width, and nine point three inches in height. Its dimensions make it easy to handle.
- Q: What genre does 'Smalltime' fall into? A: The book is categorized under Emigrants & Immigrants. It blends personal memoir with historical narrative.
- Q: How should I read 'Smalltime'? A: You can read it like any standard book. It is suitable for adults and older teens interested in family history and crime narratives.
- Q: Is 'Smalltime' suitable for young readers? A: No, it is not specifically designed for young readers. It contains themes of crime and adult experiences.
- Q: What themes are explored in 'Smalltime'? A: The book explores themes of family, identity, and the immigrant experience. It delves into the complexities of mob life in small-town America.
- Q: Can I find illustrations in 'Smalltime'? A: Yes, there are eight black-and-white illustrations included. These visuals enhance the storytelling experience.
- Q: How do I care for this hardcover book? A: Keep it in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Handle it gently to maintain its condition and longevity.
- Q: Is 'Smalltime' a good gift for history buffs? A: Yes, it makes an excellent gift for history buffs. The blend of personal narrative and historical context is engaging.
- Q: What if I receive a damaged copy of 'Smalltime'? A: Contact the retailer for a return or exchange. Most retailers have policies in place for damaged items.
- Q: How do I store 'Smalltime' to keep it in good condition? A: Store it upright on a shelf, away from moisture. This will help preserve its quality over time.
- Q: Is there a return policy for 'Smalltime'? A: Yes, most retailers offer return policies. Check the specific retailer's policy for details on returns.
- Q: What makes 'Smalltime' different from other mob stories? A: It focuses on small-town America, offering a unique perspective on the mob's influence in everyday life.
- Q: Is there a summary available for 'Smalltime'? A: Yes, it details the author's search for family history intertwined with the realities of mob life. It's both personal and historical.