Fruit of the Poppy

by Robert Wilder

This is a novel of the men of the United States Federal Bureau of Narcotics, of their counterparts in Mexico and the relentless war they wage against the forces of the underworld, the syndicates and the individuals who constantly seek and, too often, devise new and ingenious ways to smuggle narcotics into the United States.

Little, if anything, has been written about these dedicated men who daily walk paths charged with violence and danger. This is there story and although it is fiction there is much more here to lift it above the level of a writer's invention.

Against the constantly changing background of exotic Mexico and sprawling American cities, Robert Wilder has written a stirring novel of the men who devote their lives to the welfare of their fellow men and their battle against those whose only aim is to corrupt and enslave in their search for illegal gain.

Genres: Fiction

251 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1965

About the author

Robert Ingersoll Wilder was a novelist, playwright and screenwriter. Wilder's childhood was spent at Daytona Beach, Florida. Following a stint in the United States Army during World War I, he was educated at Stetson University and Columbia University. At various times in his life, Mr. Wilder was a soda jerk, a ship fitter, a theater usher, a shipping clerk, a newspaper copy boy, a publicity agent, a radio executive, and a journalist.

Mr. Wilder traveled widely and contributed stories to The New Yorker, among other magazines. He was author of two plays, Sweet Chariot, based on the life and career of activist Marcus Garvey, and Stardust, both of which were produced on Broadway. He also wrote the screenplay for the classic western, The Big Country, in 1958.

Mr. Wilder was married and had a son.

Reviews

[Kellylynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The characters were well created, the storyline played out nicely.

The mob bosses girl tries to leave, happens to be the same time his accountant leaves. It's never easy leaving the mob.