This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Honor Thy Father

   

   A meticulously reported narrative nonfiction portrait of a New York Mafia family, told through the experiences of the boss’s son and those closest to him, tracing the family’s day-to-day operations, codes of loyalty and honor, and the corrosive effects of organized crime as internal betrayals, violent reprisals and legal scrutiny unravel their power and personal lives.

   The 15635th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

2. 2. Fame And Obscurity

   A Book About New York, a Bridge, and a Man Named Joe DiMaggio

   

   "Fame and Obscurity" is a compelling collection of profiles and essays that delve into the lives of both renowned and ordinary individuals, exploring the nuances of public recognition and anonymity. The author masterfully captures the essence of his subjects, ranging from famous figures like Frank Sinatra to the lesser-known denizens of New York City, such as the workers on the Brooklyn Bridge and the inhabitants of the city's bustling streets. Through a series of vivid portraits, the book offers a profound commentary on the nature of fame, success, and the human condition, highlighting the contrasts and intersections between visibility and obscurity in American society.

   The 16617th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Amazon

3. 3. Unto The Sons

   

   This sweeping narrative traces the journey of an Italian immigrant family from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, capturing the essence of the American dream through the lens of personal and historical events. It delves into the lives of multiple generations, exploring themes of identity, ambition, and the enduring bonds of family. The story intricately weaves together the struggles and triumphs of the patriarch, his descendants, and their quest for belonging in a new world, offering a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and personal resilience.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

4. 4. Frank Sinatra Has A Cold And Other Essays

   And Other Essays

   

   This collection of essays offers a masterful exploration of the human condition through the lens of journalism, capturing the essence of its subjects with vivid detail and narrative flair. The centerpiece essay, a profile of a legendary singer, delves into the complexities of fame and the enigmatic nature of its subject without ever directly interviewing him, showcasing the power of observation and indirect storytelling. The other essays in the collection similarly illuminate the lives of various individuals, from sports figures to everyday people, each piece revealing the intricate tapestry of human experiences and emotions.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org
5. 5. The Kingdom And The Power

   

   An intimate, behind-the-scenes portrait of The New York Times in the mid-20th century, this work explores the newspaper’s hierarchical culture, internal rivalries, and editorial decision-making as it shapes national discourse. Through richly reported profiles of publishers, editors, and reporters, it reveals the power dynamics of a family-run institution, the tensions between journalistic ideals and business imperatives, and the personal ambitions that drive great reportage. The result is a nuanced study of how a singular newsroom built and wielded influence in American life.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org