Books Librarians Love: The Mafia and the Machine

December 06, 2010

True Crime has never fascinated me, but I can’t put down Frank Hayde’s The Mafia and the Machine: The Story of the Kansas City Mob. Normally, I’m a fiction reader. I love anything with a happy ending. But, I saw this book for sale at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art last week, and promptly put it on hold via blackberry. Having grown up in Kansas City, I usually take its history for granted. I guess sometimes it takes a few questions from an out-of-town guest to remind us that our city is pretty fascinating on its own. If you've ever wondered whether or not KC history holds a candle to places like Chicago, or even Vegas, this book proves that it absolutely does. Hayde’s book covers the history of organized crime in KC from the mid-1800s up until the latter part of the 20th century. It’s a fascinating read, and I’d recommend it to any Kansas Citian! Check it out!

Beth A.
Lee's Summit Branch