Books About Al Capone, Infamous Mobsters, and Chicago Gangster History

Chicago has long been associated with gangsters, mobsters, and criminals. The history of the Windy City’s underworld has captivated the world. There are many books that delve into the rise and fall of infamous gangsters like Al Capone and John Dillinger. True crime narratives explore the gritty streets of Chicago during Prohibition and beyond. Expand your Chicago Crime Tour knowledge with these gangster, mobster, and crime books that offer a fascinating glimpse into the dark underbelly of a bygone era.

Best Books About Al Capone

• Get Capone by Jonathan Eig

  • Get Capone is required reading for all Al Capone aficionados. Best-selling author Jonathan Eig offers a unique perspective of Al Capone written in a beautiful and easy to follow literary work that will help any Al Capone or true crime enthusiast become more knowledgeable.

• The Heights by Chicago-based author Ray Franze

  • The novel is based on a true story about Al Capone and an Italian immigrant who infiltrated his closest circle as a confidant. The book was released in October 2023.

• Uncle Al Capone by Deirdre Capone

  • Deirdre Capone was Al Capone’s niece. She was the daughter of Al’s brother Ralph “Bottles” Capone. As a member of the Capone family, Deirdre has special insight and knowledge about family matters and includes photos that were previously unknown to Al Capone’s fan base. Learn more about the Capone family as well as some secret family recipes.

Chicago’s True Crime History

• Devil in the White City by Erik Larson

  • This beautifully written novel takes place during the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 and set on Chicago’s south side. The juxtaposition of the beauty of the World’s Fair and the murder castle of famed serial killer HH Holmes is a chilling tale.

• Life Plus 99 Years by Nathan Leopold

  • Nathan Leopold’s novel is about his experience from committing the “perfect murder” to serving prison time. He was eventually released for good behavior and finally becoming a professor. Learn more about the case that was tried by famed attorney Clarence Darrow and how he fought against the death penalty.

• American Pharaoh by Adam Cohen and Elizabeth Taylor

  • Chicago’s politics have a long history of promoting certain candidates. American Pharaoh dives into the Democratic National Convention of 1968 and Mayor Richard J. Daley’s role in the events the surrounded this event.

Books About Gangs in Chicago

• The First Vice Lord: Big Jim Colosimo and the Ladies of the Levee by Art Bilek

  • The late Art Bilek was an incredible speaker, historian and expert in all things related to Chicago gangs and crime. Bilek explores the infancy of Chicago gangs before Prohibition and the rise of crime. Bilek had a unique lens to describe and set the scene as a former Chief of the Cook County Sherriff’s Police and a member of the Chicago Crime Commission.

• True Stories from The Files of the FBI by W. Cleon Skousen

  • The Dillinger gang is one of the most famous and well-known gangs in Chicago. In this book learn more about the G-Men, the FBI, the Lindbergh Kidnapping, the Kansas City Massacre, Ma Barker, John Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson and more in this easy-to-read novel by W. Cleon Skousen.

These literary works tell the stories of notorious criminals, corrupt politicians, and daring heists, transporting readers to a time when speakeasies thrived, mobsters ran the city and beyond. With vivid storytelling and meticulous research, these books not only entertain but also shed light on the complex web of power, violence, and intrigue that defined Chicago’s criminal history. Whether you are an avid historian or simply a fan of thrilling narratives and true crime, these books are a captivating journey into a world of organized crime and the enduring allure of the Chicago’s notorious figures.