Killer Book Summary
The Autobiography of a Mafia Hit Man
TL;DR
"Killer: The Autobiography of a Mafia Hit Man" is the gripping life story of Joey the Hit Man, detailing his transition from a Bronx childhood to becoming a notorious assassin, offering a candid look at the brutal realities of organized crime.
What is Killer about
This autobiography by Joey the Hit Man, a former Mafia assassin, provides an unflinching narrative of his life in organized crime. Born in the Bronx to a Jewish bootlegger, Joey entered the criminal world at a young age and climbed the ranks to become a feared hitman, responsible for thirty-eight murders, primarily for monetary gain. The book sheds light on the complexities of family life intertwined with criminality, the harsh truths of gang warfare, and the constant evasion of law enforcement. Joey's insights reveal the stark contrast between the glamorized depictions of the Mafia in Hollywood and the grim reality faced by those within it. The updated edition further includes details about Joey's true identity and the enigmatic circumstances of his death, adding depth to his already fascinating narrative.
Killer 7 Key Takeaways
Early Life and Criminal Introduction
Joey was born to a Jewish bootlegger in the Bronx and was introduced to crime at the tender age of eleven, marking the beginning of his lifelong entanglement with organized crime.
Rise Through Crime Ranks
Over the ensuing decades, Joey became a prominent figure in the Mafia, engaging in various criminal activities including loan sharking, drug smuggling, and, most infamously, contract killings.
Life as a Hitman
Joey's chilling account details his thirty-eight hits, elucidating the psychological and practical aspects of being a Mafia assassin, including the difference between killing for pay and for personal vendettas.
Avoidance of Law Enforcement
Throughout his career, Joey faced grand jury investigations seven times without conviction, attributing his evasion to cunning strategies and legal advice.
Family Life Amid Crime
The autobiography also discusses how Joey managed to raise a family while being deeply entrenched in the criminal underworld, highlighting the duality of his existence.
Comparison to Hollywood
Joey critiques the romanticized portrayal of organized crime in films like "The Godfather," asserting that his experiences reveal a much harsher reality.
Legacy and Afterword
The new edition includes an afterword by David Fisher, shedding light on Joey's true identity and the circumstances surrounding his death, adding a layer of intrigue to his story.
Top Killer Quotes
- "People think they know organized crime because of movies, but the reality is far darker and more complex."
- "I learned early on that never lying to your lawyer was the key to survival."
- "There’s a fine line between killing for money and killing for revenge, and I walked it every day."
Who should read Killer?
This book is ideal for readers interested in true crime, Mafia history, and personal narratives of individuals who lived outside the law. It offers insights into the complexities of crime, morality, and survival in a world often glamorized by Hollywood.
Killer Best Reviews
- "Killer is chilling and compelling—an eye-opening look into the dark world of organized crime from someone who lived it. A must-read!" - Joe Pistone, former FBI agent.
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Killer FAQs
What makes "Killer" different from other Mafia biographies?
Unlike many biographical accounts that romanticize Mafia life, "Killer" presents an unvarnished, firsthand perspective on the violent realities of being a hitman, based on Joey's direct experiences.
Is this book suitable for all readers?
Due to its graphic content and themes of violence and crime, this autobiography is best suited for mature audiences interested in true crime narratives.