Red Hook: Brooklyn Mafia, Ground Zero

by Frank DiMatteo, Michael Benson

The shocking crime-drenched saga of the New York mobs in Red Hook, Brooklyn—where the streets ran red with blood—by a Mafia survivor who grew up there . . . For more than a hundred years, the Red Hook section of Brooklyn was Ground Zero for organized crime. Whoever controlled the piers controlled everything. From the infamous Irish gang known as The White Hand at the turn of the century, to the notorious Italian Gallo brothers who ran President Street—and everything else—generations later, the blood-soaked history of Red Hook is the story of American crime at its most powerful, corrupt, and coldly efficient. It's all the brutal mob hits, bullet storms, and backstabbings of the most colorful cutthroats to ever terrorize the streets. A rogue’s gallery of killers with nicknames like “The Mad Hatter,” “The Executioner,” “Wild Bill,” and “Peg Leg.” The Brooklyn bar fight that gave Al “Scarface” Capone his legendary scars. The godfather of America’s first Sicilian crime family whose gruesomely mangled hand could scare men half to death. And, to bring it all home, the author’s own eyewitness account of multiple shootings growing up as the son of a Mafia bodyguard. Packed with jaw-dropping stories of public violence and personal vengeance, vivid insights into the Mafia’s way of life, and shocking portraits of America’s most wanted crime families, Red Hook is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the history of organized crime in America.

Genres: History, True Crime, Crime, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Biography

368 pages, Hardcover

Published November 26, 2024

Reviews

[Kate O'Shea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'd not read any of Frank Dimatteo's previous work about his family's connections with the Mafia so I was not sure what to expect from this latest true crime book.

It lacks the continuity you'd expect from a history book and some of it feels as though the author is simply regurgitating what came before but with different names. There is the change from the Irish holding sway to the Italians taking over but apart from that and the viciousness of certain members of gangs who stand out, there is little to choose between the perpetrators of crime.

I think the main things that stuck with me is the fact that the children of mobsters were simply expected to continue in a life that was dangerous, not to say life limiting. There seemed a hopelessness almost that this was the short life they would lead and the women were merely left to pick up the pieces.

The other thing that struck me was the length of time that these gangs had operated with the law seemingly unable or unwilling to smash the hold they had over the area.

Not what I was expecting and quite monotonous at times but it was, at least, a firsthand experience of the life. It drove home that this life was anything but glamorous.

I listened to the audio version which was read by Eric Jason Martin who had a good, clear delivery and didn't overdramatise.

Thankyou to Netgalley and RB Media for the audio advance review copy.

[Jeff · Rating 3 out of 5]

Red Hook, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, NY, and its connection to the Mafia, is the focus in the latest book from author and ex-mobster Frank DiMatteo, who grew up in the area. Culled from history books and his own experiences, the book details the sometimes sordid and violent history of the neighborhood, from the long-ago Indian inhabitants to its eventual home of Mafia figures. It’s an interesting, if disturbing account of an area steeped in Mafia tradition, and how the mob established its stranglehold on the area. While the book gets bogged down with endless anecdotal stories, it’s still a must-read for fans of mobster history, and the author’s bona fides lend an authentic touch. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Red Hook is a captivating deep dive into the blood-soaked history of the Brooklyn mafia, packed with fascinating stories, larger-than-life characters, and a vivid timeline of organized crime’s grip on the area. For over a century, Red Hook was the epicenter of mob activity, and this book unravels its dark legacy, from the early days of the Irish gang “The White Hand” to the infamous reign of the Italian Gallo brothers.

The authors detail a chilling narrative of notorious figures like Luciano and Capone, weaving in violent mob hits, betrayals, and power struggles that shaped the mafia’s rise. What truly stands out is the sheer depth of history crammed into this book, providing insights not just into mafia personalities but the system of crime itself, including the control of Red Hook’s vital piers.

Narrator Eric Jason Martin perfectly complements the material with his measured and engaging tone. His delivery never feels exaggerated, allowing the shocking nature of the stories to speak for itself while keeping the listener hooked throughout.

As someone fascinated by mafia history, I went into this audiobook with no expectations and was thoroughly impressed by the rich, well-organized content. Whether you’re new to organized crime history or a seasoned aficionado, Red Hook offers a well-rounded, eye-opening exploration of a pivotal chapter in American crime.

Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Audio, and authors Frank Dimatteo and Michael Benson for the opportunity to listen to this remarkable work. If mafia history intrigues you, this is a must-read (or must-listen).

[Bob · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unless you were born and spent a lot of your early years in Red Hook, Brooklyn and love having all the lore about the Italian and Irish mobsters ruling the neighborhood running through your blood, my recommendation is too skip this book….or put another way, fuhgettabout it.

As an avid reader for over sixty years who started my love of books as an early teenager by reading Mafia biographies, I was looking forward to reading Red Hook by Frank DiMatteo. Bottom line is that I was very disappointed in this book, although I did like some aspects of it.

On the positive side,I liked the book for its (1) first-hand authenticity regarding mid-century mob life and the waterfront power struggles in Red Hook, (2) the colorful characters and vivid anecdotes described and (3) its impressive scope tracing organized crime in Red Hook from Irish gangs through Italian rule.

For me, however, these positives were far outweighed by the following negative issues: (1) the highly disjointed structure used by the authors,in that the book seemed more like a scrapbook of crime facts rather than a cohesive story; (2) many too many bold claims made with very little/almost no support provided for these claims; and (3) much of the writing style was quite pedestrian with limited depth and lacking the complexity I expect from serious Mafia histories.

[Dawn Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

eBook - 2 Stars
I was hoping for so much more from this book and am left pretty disappointed. I was expecting a detailed deep-dive into the area of Red Hook and the Mafia, and while there IS a lot of detail [some of it very ew], what I mostly got was a very disjointed book [that jumps all over the place after the initial introduction to first the Irish and then the Italians]; each chapter is broken down into sections [that do not always go with what you just read] that ALL have titles [THAT got old very quickly] so there is no real flow to the book - it is mostly just herky-jerky and made for a rather frustrating read. Almost all the stories are of mobsters who ended up dead [the parts where Mr. DiMatteo is telling personal stories and reflections of growing up in Red Hook are some of the best parts of the book, but I found them to be few and far between], and I just kept wanting more. Not a book that I would recommend.

Narrator/Narration - 4 Stars
Initially, I wasn't sure if I would like the narrator [who did his very best with this weird vignette-style of writing], but then I settled in and really grew to enjoy him and I must say he was the best part of this reading experience and I am hoping I get to listen to him narrate again soon. Well done.

Thank you to NetGalley, the authors, Eric Jason Martin - Narrator, Kensington Publishing/Citadel, and Tantor Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.

[♡︎.ᐟજ⁀➴ Erie · Rating 3 out of 5]

🌟 A Gritty Glimpse into Gangland 🌟

📚 The Book:

Red Hook: Brooklyn Mafia, Ground Zero by Frank DiMatteo and Michael Benson isn't your typical crime saga. I picked this up from Kensington Books and dove into what I thought would be another thrilling escapade into the world of organized crime. Boy, was it an eye-opener! 👀

What to Expect:

ᐟજ⁀➴A Historical Overview: 🕰️ The book does a commendable job of tracing the roots of crime in Red Hook from its earliest days to the modern era. It's like taking a time machine back to when the Irish White Hand Gang ruled, then watching the transition to Italian dominance with the Gallo brothers at the helm.

ᐟજ⁀➴Firsthand Accounts: 👀 DiMatteo, having grown up in this mafia milieu, brings a raw and personal touch to the narrative. His stories aren't just tales; they're his life, making the book feel authentic, almost like you're sitting with an old-timer in a dimly lit bar recounting the days when the streets were lawless.

ᐟજ⁀➴Repetitive Gang Lore: 🔄 While the history is rich, there's a bit of a loop here. The transition from one gang to another sometimes feels like a change in cast but not in the script. The names change, but the game remains the same.

Highlights:

ᐟજ⁀➴The Mobster's Life: ⚰️ The book doesn't shy away from showing the dark side. It's sobering to think of kids born into this life, with no real escape. The narrative paints a bleak picture where crime is the career path, and the end is often tragic and short.

ᐟજ⁀➴Community Impact: 🏘️ The ripple effect of mafia control on everyday life is chilling. It's a reminder of how deeply crime can embed itself into a community's fabric, with corruption and fear as constant companions.

Overall Impression:

ᐟજ⁀➴Mixed Feelings: 🗣️ If you're into mob history, this book offers a firsthand perspective that's hard to find. However, if you're looking for a linear, neatly packaged history, you might find yourself a bit lost in the maze of names and events.

ᐟજ⁀➴Not Glamorous: 🚫 One thing is clear: the mafia life isn't as glamorous as movies might have you believe. It's gritty, it's real, and it's often heartbreaking.

In conclusion, Red Hook: Brooklyn Mafia, Ground Zero is a complex tapestry of crime, history, and personal narrative. It's not for the faint-hearted, but for those intrigued by the underbelly of urban America, it's a gritty, if somewhat repetitive, journey worth taking.

Would I Recommend It?

For true crime and mafia history buffs, absolutely. It's a deep dive into a world many know of but few truly understand. However, if you're looking for a straightforward history lesson or a suspenseful narrative, you might find this book a bit tough to navigate through its dense recounting of mob tales. 😕

Thank you, Kensington Books, for providing me with this book to review. 📖🖤

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

[J Kromrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Red Hook: Brooklyn Mafia, Ground Zero by Frank Dimatteo and Michael Benson is a compelling dive into the dark and violent history of one of New York City’s most notorious neighborhoods. This true crime narrative takes readers through the blood-soaked streets of Red Hook, Brooklyn, where organized crime reigned supreme for over a century.

The book meticulously chronicles the rise and fall of various crime families and gangs that controlled Red Hook, from the Irish White Hand Gang to the Italian Gallo brothers. Dimatteo and Benson provide a vivid portrayal of the ruthless power struggles and brutal tactics employed by these mobsters. The authors’ deep knowledge of the subject matter, combined with Dimatteo’s personal experiences growing up as the son of a Mafia bodyguard, lends an authentic and gritty perspective to the narrative.

Dimatteo and Benson humanize the larger-than-life figures that dominated Red Hook’s criminal landscape. The authors delve into the personalities and motivations of infamous mobsters, painting a nuanced picture of their lives and the violent world they inhabited. This makes the historical account more engaging and provides a deeper understanding of the social and economic factors that fueled organized crime in the area.

The narrative is packed with jaw-dropping stories of public violence and personal vengeance, making it a gripping read from start to finish. The authors’ storytelling prowess shines through as they recount tales of mob hits, betrayals, and the constant battle for control of the lucrative docks. The book also explores the impact of these criminal activities on the local community, highlighting the fear and corruption that permeated everyday life in Red Hook.

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Today, we know Brooklyn as the second largest borough of New York City, at 71 square miles, a vibrant, diverse home to artists and hipsters, but it was an independent city for 250 years before it was officially absorbed into New York in 1898. Around the turn of the 20th century, Brooklyn was known for two things: a busy port and lots of crime. It seemed men had two choices according to the authors, "You either worked the docks or you became a crook." There were as many as 79 juvenile street gangs, and many of the alumni graduated into harder crime. Irish and then Italian organized crime families came to dominate Brooklyn, with all of the big names involved, with nicknames like "Scarface," "The Mad Hatter," "Peg Leg," "Wild Bill," "Cigar," and "The Executioner." Over the 20th century, mob activities, turf wars, and hits were commonplace, and Brooklyn became "ground zero' for organized crime. That century of Brooklyn's history is well documented here by two bona fide mafia historians, one of whom is the son of a former Mafia bodyguard, and the other has published numerous books on the subject. This is a must-read for those interested in mob history.

[Graham W · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book overall. I’m not from Red Hook, but my family has roots there, and the neighborhood stories gave me a real sense of what life was like in earlier years. The firsthand accounts were especially valuable since they added perspectives you just don’t get from old newspapers or news footage.

There were a few parts I found more difficult to connect with. Some sections, like the extended focus on the Gallo brothers, came across a little too admiring for my taste.

Separately, one chapter that really stood out was the dream sequence where Frankie describes executing a Puerto Rican drug dealer. It was so vividly written that it almost felt more like lived experience than dream imagery, and I wasn’t entirely sure how to interpret it. Perhaps it was meant as a symbolic reflection, or perhaps something more—either way, it was a striking piece of writing that left me thinking about it long after.

All in all, I’m glad I read the book. It deepened my understanding of both Red Hook and “the life,” and while certain parts raised questions for me, I still came away with a greater connection to the neighborhood and its history.

[Jesse · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the Audio ARC!

I have always been a religious person, and reading various books of scripture has always been part of my life. When I was younger, my brothers and I used to joke about the sections of the Bible that just listed off the lineage of the people involved. You know, all the 'begats'. This book was like the inverse of that. Way too much of it seemed like a list of who killed who, and then who killed that guy, and then who killed that guy, etc, ad nauseum. The author threw is some creative ways to describe the act of killing someone, and some corny jokes along the way, though whether that was an improvement or not is up to the individual reader.

[Sydney Marker · Rating 5 out of 5]

The intro was a little slow but it picked up pretty quickly. After it did, I was hooked.

The history of the area was mind blowing and hearing how it is today was interesting. It made me want to visit there but knowing everything that happened/happens there, not so much. The details of Red Hook made it easy to visualize. I don't know the area, but reading this makes you almost feel like you were there and you were a part of everything.

The history of the people was amazing. A lot of details and again, made you feel like you were there/know them. You get attached to them and go through an emotional rollercoaster when something happens to them.

This was a great book and great story. I'm interested in reading more and I'd definitely recommend this to anyone.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredibly thorough history of organized crime in the Red Hook community of Brooklyn, from the time of earliest settlement until recent history. Told in a series of short vignettes, this authoritative account is well-researched. Co-author Frank Dimatteo is a native of Red Hook and witnessed much of the mid-century events firsthand. I would like to know more of his story. Due to the length and preponderance of names, nicknames, etc., it's difficult to keep everyone straight (haha) but it's an interesting read nonetheless. #RedHook #NetGalley

[Stanley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting history of a small portion of Brooklyn named Red Hook which contains the docks that supplied the country with products from around the world, and was also the main employer to the diverse mix of immigrants that settled the area--mostly Irish, Italian, and German families in the beginning. Made famous by the book and movie "On the Waterfront", it's also about the corrupt system around which the docks operated. The best part (for me, at least) was the personal family story of the author, DiMatteo. Those portions read like a novel.

[Angela · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found this book very disjointed. It seemed like some of the stories were repeated and sometimes not in chronological order. It was written more colloquially than a text book, but not as fluidly a novel. Not having grown up in that part of New York, many of the geographical references were lost on me. It seemed like the author was very proud of his family's and colleagues' illegal activities. I was not invested in the story and found it laborious to read.

[Valerity (Val) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an interesting mob book that delves into the Red Hook gangs, crooks and other denizens of the area. Filled with lots of gangsters, many with colorful nicknames. I liked the history and tales from long ago about these guys and their mob wars. It’s another good true crime book from these authors.

[Wanda Weinhandl · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very interesting read and writes about the Red Hook Brooklyn mafia. Although I don’t much about mafia only what I read it was an eye opener. Blood shed, crooks and the like is quite unsettling. True crime can and is gruesome. Makes one wonder how this could even happen. Thank you Goodreads and Citadel Press for this ARC book.

[Ron Baumer · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and well-told story of a little-known crime area. The author having grown up in the area, presents the story more like two people talking and swapping stories. The characters are colorful and full of life in the narration. You can picture the area and events as if you were there,
A great crime novel!

Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Laura Newsholme · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting and informative read with lots of anecdotal stories from the author who grew up amongst the mafia families in Red Hook. A little bit indulgent at times and definitely sympathetic to the criminal life, this was still entertaining throughout.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Randal White · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not at all impressed with this book. Poorly written, jumps all over the place, seems to be information just culled from newspapers and periodicals. Normally I devour books about the Mafia, but in this case I just cannot recommend it.

[Kevin Bartko · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book captivating and easy to read. I enjoyed the writers style and stories provided. The overall story flowed well and will be looking forward to reading other books by this author. A part of the US history provided in a frank, to the point style.

[Nadia Meriouli · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review

I did not enjoy this. It felt like fact vomit. It moved so fast I couldn’t understand what was happening. I learnt pretty much nothing.

[Robert Antulov · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m from NY so I could really relate to some of the places and stories mentioned in the book. I find NY history particularly fascinating. This is an interesting first hand account of the Brooklyn mafia in Red Hook. I gave it a good review so I don’t end up “swimming with the fishes”.

[Bellaluvbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very iteresting!

[Olivier Antoine · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unreadable.

[Tom]

I won't actually finish this book until Saturday, but that falls within the Amazon boycott week, so I'll record it today.

[Terry Fair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great look into the Brooklyn Mafia of yesterday and today.

[Retired reader · Rating 1 out of 5]

I received this in a Goodreads giveaway. I was interested to learn about the Brooklyn Mafia. This was a list of people murdered and killed.

[Bryan Clagett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love some mafia history. Really interesting.

[Janet Share · Rating 1 out of 5]

Skip it

Probably the worst of the many mafia I've read in my life. An encyclopedia of who killed who and when.

[Raven · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good book with loads of stories I had never heard before.