Reviews

Born Filippo Sacco in Italy, Rosselli's long Mafia career ended in 1976 when he was slain following his Senate testimony about his role in the CIA-Mafia plot to kill Fidel Castro. In between, Rosselli, who started with the Capone mob, was most active in Hollywood and Las Vegas. The authors rather admire their subject, and he is portayed as a principled, patriotic, and gentlemanly mobster. Despite extensive research, the book lacks an authoritative source, and Rosselli and his exploits remain shadowy and not fully realized. Of necessity, there is an abundance of speculation, some well-informed and some dubious. Although a bit lacking in drama and immediacy for the general reader, this book has historical value. Suitable for larger crime collections.--Gregor A. Preston, Univ. of California Lib., Davis

Rosselli, brought to this country from Italy as a child, was a key figure in organized crime for decades until he was murdered in 1976. Los Angeles freelance journalist Rappleye and private eye Becker trace the rise of this gangster who began his career working for Al Capone, moved to Hollywood at a time when the mob was making inroads into the film industry, switched his residence to Las Vegas when the first Cosa Nostra-financed casinos were built, and played a major role in the CIA's abortive attempts to assassinate Fidel Castro. The book draws a deeply depressing picture of American life with its contention that many important figures in business and politics are beholden to the Mafia, including John Kennedy, who, the authors suggest, was killed by the mob. The biography will be much discussed. Photos not seen by PW. (Sept.)