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The Mafia Philosopher: Two Tonys
“A fast-paced true-crime memoir with all of the action of Goodfellas” – UNILAD “Sopranos v Sons of Anarchy with an Alaskan-snow backdrop” – True Geordie Podcast Breaking bones, burying bodies and planting bombs became second nature to Two Tonys while working for the Bonanno Crime Family, whose exploits inspired The Godfather. After a dispute with an outlaw motorcycle club, Two Tonys left a trail of corpses from Arizona to Alaska. On the run, he was pursued by bikers and a neo-Nazi gang blood-thirsty for revenge, while a homicide detective launched a nationwide manhunt. As the mist from his smoking gun fades, readers are left with an unexpected portrait of a stoic philosopher with a wealth of charm, a glorious turn of phrase and a fanatical devotion to his daughter.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 19, 2018
485 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Shaun Attwood
77 books362 followersIn prison, I read over 1000 books in just under six years, including many literary classics. Books were the lifeblood of my rehabilitation.
As told on National Geographic Channel's Locked-Up/Banged-Up Abroad episode "Raving Arizona," I used a tiny pencil sharpened on a cell door to write the first prison blog, Jon’s Jail Journal. My writing, smuggled out of the jail with the highest rate of death in America, run by Sheriff Joe Arpaio, turned the international media spotlight on the human rights violations, including guards murdering mentally ill inmates, dead rats in the food, lack of medical care...
Raised in a small chemical-manufacturing town in northern England, I was the first from my family to go to university. As a penniless graduate, I took my business degree to Phoenix, and worked my way up to become a stock-market millionaire.
But I also led a double life. An early fan of the Manchester rave scene, I headed an organisation that threw raves and distributed Ecstasy. On May 16th 2002, a SWAT team knocked my door down.
Facing a life sentence, I entered a lengthy legal battle. After two years of being held unsentenced, I was convicted of drug offences. Sentenced to 9½ years, I served almost 6.
I had only read finance books prior to my arrest. While incarcerated, I submerged myself in literature. By studying original texts in psychology and philosophy, I sought to better understand myself and my past behaviour.
Released in December 2007, I continue to campaign against Sheriff Joe Arpaio. I keep my blog, Jon’s Jail Journal, going by posting stories mailed to me by my prison friends.
In July 2008, I won a Koestler award for a short story, which I read to an audience at the Royal Festival Hall.
I presently live near London, and talk to schools across the UK about my jail experience and the consequences of getting involved in drugs and crime.
As told on National Geographic Channel's Locked-Up/Banged-Up Abroad episode "Raving Arizona," I used a tiny pencil sharpened on a cell door to write the first prison blog, Jon’s Jail Journal. My writing, smuggled out of the jail with the highest rate of death in America, run by Sheriff Joe Arpaio, turned the international media spotlight on the human rights violations, including guards murdering mentally ill inmates, dead rats in the food, lack of medical care...
Raised in a small chemical-manufacturing town in northern England, I was the first from my family to go to university. As a penniless graduate, I took my business degree to Phoenix, and worked my way up to become a stock-market millionaire.
But I also led a double life. An early fan of the Manchester rave scene, I headed an organisation that threw raves and distributed Ecstasy. On May 16th 2002, a SWAT team knocked my door down.
Facing a life sentence, I entered a lengthy legal battle. After two years of being held unsentenced, I was convicted of drug offences. Sentenced to 9½ years, I served almost 6.
I had only read finance books prior to my arrest. While incarcerated, I submerged myself in literature. By studying original texts in psychology and philosophy, I sought to better understand myself and my past behaviour.
Released in December 2007, I continue to campaign against Sheriff Joe Arpaio. I keep my blog, Jon’s Jail Journal, going by posting stories mailed to me by my prison friends.
In July 2008, I won a Koestler award for a short story, which I read to an audience at the Royal Festival Hall.
I presently live near London, and talk to schools across the UK about my jail experience and the consequences of getting involved in drugs and crime.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 11, 2020
First and foremost, this book is the ramblings of an egomaniac. Yep the author. Why would I make such a claim? Two issues. One-who is Two Tonys? His real name is never revealed and when you do a search, even in the Bonanno Crime family you come up with a big fat ZERO. But even more glaring is Tony’s birthday, 2-8-1941. Nothing disturbing here until you find out he served on the USS Vesuvius for over three years and received an honorable discharge in 3-5-1958. That means he was fourteen when the judge gave him a choice between prison or the military. The Navy would not have accepted him. They were still coming to grips with the Calvin Graham incident. I’m sure Shaun doesn’t know who that is because one thing he isn’t big on is research. That would get in the way of poison words and attack on conservatives and those of us who believe in God. He only believes in himself and his current hustle.
Those two facts alone are enough to discredit this garbage. When the author starts his rant about religious leaders and refers to them as hustlers, let’s remember what Shaun did for a living: stock broker, rave promoter, ecstasy seller. All three are the biggest hustlers in the world and for a while, Shaun appeared to be very good at all three.
He is now working on his greatest hustle, writing books and convincing people to believe his left-wing politics. I would like to think that when he talks to kids about staying out of jail and steer clear of drugs but I’m not. This is the second and last book I will read of his. The first was Un Making a Murder.
If you want to be brainwashed turn on CNN or MSNBC. It’s a lot less painful and free.
I am so glad he has been permanently banned from ever coming back to the Untied States. We don’t need a wanker like that walking about unless it’s to another incarceration.
Who would I recommend this to. Absolutely and I mean absolutely no one!
One Star push.
Those two facts alone are enough to discredit this garbage. When the author starts his rant about religious leaders and refers to them as hustlers, let’s remember what Shaun did for a living: stock broker, rave promoter, ecstasy seller. All three are the biggest hustlers in the world and for a while, Shaun appeared to be very good at all three.
He is now working on his greatest hustle, writing books and convincing people to believe his left-wing politics. I would like to think that when he talks to kids about staying out of jail and steer clear of drugs but I’m not. This is the second and last book I will read of his. The first was Un Making a Murder.
If you want to be brainwashed turn on CNN or MSNBC. It’s a lot less painful and free.
I am so glad he has been permanently banned from ever coming back to the Untied States. We don’t need a wanker like that walking about unless it’s to another incarceration.
Who would I recommend this to. Absolutely and I mean absolutely no one!
One Star push.
July 26, 2018
Out of Attwood's 10 true crime books, we've had nothing like this. Written in the warm and witty voice of Two Tonys, I was really drawn in despite the nature of his crimes. Two Tonys is an old school Italian mafia guy who protected Shaun in prison and told him his true life story. The conflict of mafia guys versus biker gang is intense. At the end, Two Tonys philosophy is hilarious as he rips apart politicians and certain belief systems, while putting forward his own philosophy of enjoying every moment of your life - even in a maximum-security prison.
June 22, 2022
Life
Well, that was an excellent read. I'm not surprised. The writing was a constant flow of story telling, it's easy to get quite caught up. The chapters pass almost too fast. I loved getting to know Two Tonys. His life was certainly an adventure. He was a man with morals. He was anything but pretentious. He says it as it is.
It seems like Shaun Attwood's stint in jail was quite a privilege for other prisoners; he is a walking inspiration with his love of books. Fortunately, he's contagious.
Well, that was an excellent read. I'm not surprised. The writing was a constant flow of story telling, it's easy to get quite caught up. The chapters pass almost too fast. I loved getting to know Two Tonys. His life was certainly an adventure. He was a man with morals. He was anything but pretentious. He says it as it is.
It seems like Shaun Attwood's stint in jail was quite a privilege for other prisoners; he is a walking inspiration with his love of books. Fortunately, he's contagious.
July 20, 2018
If you're looking for a fast-paced, exciting true-crime memoir then this is for you! Shaun really delves deep into Two Tonys mafia life and running from the police and a biker gang as the hit-list death toll builds. Shaun writes in a very accessible manner and so I would recommend it for both experienced and new readers. I really like the Godfather and this true story has as much action, so if you like the Godfather you'll love this too!
September 21, 2021
all reviews in one place:
night mode reading ;
skaitom nakties rezimu
About the Book: Two Tonys, who is actually one man, has went from nothing to the glory of mafia, crime life, to prison. With a trail of corpses and drugs behind him, Two Tonys never lost his will to live or appreciation for life, the little joys. It only deepened when he met blogger, writer, and author – Shaun Attwood, who agreed to write his story down for us.
My Opinion: This was a fascinating piece. Starting as a biography, wrapping up in prison, life there, and finishing with beautiful, if simple, philosophy on joys of life. Well written, never dull.
night mode reading ;
skaitom nakties rezimu
About the Book: Two Tonys, who is actually one man, has went from nothing to the glory of mafia, crime life, to prison. With a trail of corpses and drugs behind him, Two Tonys never lost his will to live or appreciation for life, the little joys. It only deepened when he met blogger, writer, and author – Shaun Attwood, who agreed to write his story down for us.
My Opinion: This was a fascinating piece. Starting as a biography, wrapping up in prison, life there, and finishing with beautiful, if simple, philosophy on joys of life. Well written, never dull.
September 7, 2018
Un-put-down-able Due To Two Tonys Voice
Unlike any other book in the Mafia genre, this is unique because it's written in a way that makes you feel like you are having a fireside chat with Two Tonys himself. Once you get past the intro that is written by the author, the rest of the book is in Two Tonys voice. I love Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi, but that is written from the journalist's perspective. Even Puzo's narration of the Godfather can't top Two Tonys voice. Here's an example from the prologue:
"Sometimes at night, I lay on my bunk, staring at the flies and mosquitoes splattered on the grimy ceiling, reminiscing about the pieces of shit I whacked, which gives me weird thoughts. Probably not weird in the way you’re imagining. If you’re thinking that any of my victims might have been the next Bill Gates or might have discovered a cure for cancer or might have been the first person to walk on Mars, no, let’s be real. They were the kind who might have blown your face off during an armed robbery or sold heroin to your kids. For almost two decades, I got away with putting schmucks to sleep. It all ended after my arrest in the early nineties, so before I set the table for my story, let’s take a peek there."
Plus the story is full of Two Tonys quips and gallows humour. For example, "These days, people’s brains aren’t rolling right. They’re too plugged into shit like Entertainment Tonight to see whether Britney Spears or Paris Hilton are wearing panties."
Two Tonys shares his thoughts on everything from corrupt politicians to child-molesting priests. It's the icing on a cake of a brilliant story about Mafia guys. A major theme full of blood, guts and action is the Mafia guys war with a biker gang.
All in all a gripping read that is impossible to put down.
Unlike any other book in the Mafia genre, this is unique because it's written in a way that makes you feel like you are having a fireside chat with Two Tonys himself. Once you get past the intro that is written by the author, the rest of the book is in Two Tonys voice. I love Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi, but that is written from the journalist's perspective. Even Puzo's narration of the Godfather can't top Two Tonys voice. Here's an example from the prologue:
"Sometimes at night, I lay on my bunk, staring at the flies and mosquitoes splattered on the grimy ceiling, reminiscing about the pieces of shit I whacked, which gives me weird thoughts. Probably not weird in the way you’re imagining. If you’re thinking that any of my victims might have been the next Bill Gates or might have discovered a cure for cancer or might have been the first person to walk on Mars, no, let’s be real. They were the kind who might have blown your face off during an armed robbery or sold heroin to your kids. For almost two decades, I got away with putting schmucks to sleep. It all ended after my arrest in the early nineties, so before I set the table for my story, let’s take a peek there."
Plus the story is full of Two Tonys quips and gallows humour. For example, "These days, people’s brains aren’t rolling right. They’re too plugged into shit like Entertainment Tonight to see whether Britney Spears or Paris Hilton are wearing panties."
Two Tonys shares his thoughts on everything from corrupt politicians to child-molesting priests. It's the icing on a cake of a brilliant story about Mafia guys. A major theme full of blood, guts and action is the Mafia guys war with a biker gang.
All in all a gripping read that is impossible to put down.
August 12, 2018
The life story of Two Tonys reads like a thriller novel but it's all true. Moreover, Shaun Attwood perfectly captures the voice of Two Tonys. Reading the book feels as if Two Tonys is in the room with you telling his story. It's that good.
August 27, 2019
Shaun Attwood has a way with words. Not everyone is as capable of taking on someone else's story and turning it into a compelling and interesting read. While the identity of Two Tonys is never revealed, the reader is taken on a journey that creates a rapport that can only be achieved through the compelling story-telling of Attwood.
September 27, 2019
Not Your Typical Mob Story!
This one caught me by surprise. I liked the perspective of the way the writing was done - first hand, from jail. He was so well read. I would have never thought I'd be taking reading suggestions from a convicted felon! Made me feel that his life was a waste of great talent and know how.
This one caught me by surprise. I liked the perspective of the way the writing was done - first hand, from jail. He was so well read. I would have never thought I'd be taking reading suggestions from a convicted felon! Made me feel that his life was a waste of great talent and know how.
October 8, 2020
Enjoyable.
After reading "English Shaun's" trilogy and being introduced to Two Tonys, I looked forward to this read. Covers a lot more of his life rather than the prisoner with Shaun. Not gory like some books of this type, but enjoyable non the less. Looking forward now for the release of T-Bone.
After reading "English Shaun's" trilogy and being introduced to Two Tonys, I looked forward to this read. Covers a lot more of his life rather than the prisoner with Shaun. Not gory like some books of this type, but enjoyable non the less. Looking forward now for the release of T-Bone.
October 26, 2018
Absolute masterpiece
I don’t read, I don’t have the mental focus to read
However this book is an absolute masterpiece none stop action and really makes you think about your life and no matter what you can make peace with whatever happens in your life. Beautiful book.
I don’t read, I don’t have the mental focus to read
However this book is an absolute masterpiece none stop action and really makes you think about your life and no matter what you can make peace with whatever happens in your life. Beautiful book.
January 8, 2019
Sorry but worthwhile
Intense in the first parts but goes toward too philosophical for my taste toward the end. Very interesting life story about Two Tongs and I highly recommend reading this.
Intense in the first parts but goes toward too philosophical for my taste toward the end. Very interesting life story about Two Tongs and I highly recommend reading this.
January 10, 2019
Shaun captures Two Tonys voice perfectly. Full of dry, dark humour with moments of real wisdom and sadness. Amidst all the violence and horror, simple human dignity and friendship make this a really touching read.
January 20, 2019
Two Tonys
Really enjoyed this book, can't wait to read more of his books. Very interesting to find a member of the mob with such feelings of the heart and his humor. Definitely getting into this author enough that I would like to meet him, or eat him speak.
Really enjoyed this book, can't wait to read more of his books. Very interesting to find a member of the mob with such feelings of the heart and his humor. Definitely getting into this author enough that I would like to meet him, or eat him speak.
January 2, 2020
Fascinating and surprising
I had never read a first-hand account of a member of the mafia. As a philosopher, I enjoyed going through Two Tony’s life, with his language and his perspective on life, with an erudite interpretation of events and decisions he took throughout.
I had never read a first-hand account of a member of the mafia. As a philosopher, I enjoyed going through Two Tony’s life, with his language and his perspective on life, with an erudite interpretation of events and decisions he took throughout.
January 5, 2020
Interesting perspective on the Mafia. Usually I don't think of individuals, just the Mob. Loved the way this guy talks in his own vernacular; most of us don't hear this manner of speech. The book is just ok to read. I wouldn't read it again and actually quit 3/4 through.
July 4, 2021
Interesting
After reading The English Shaun Trilogy I found this to be a great follow up. I enjoyed reading another’s perspective on a similar but extended experience. Would advise people to read this after the trilogy.
After reading The English Shaun Trilogy I found this to be a great follow up. I enjoyed reading another’s perspective on a similar but extended experience. Would advise people to read this after the trilogy.
June 16, 2022
loved it!
I read Shaun’s trilogy first, which were excellent! Then it’s was so great to read about Two Tony’s. Thoroughly enjoyed every word.
Couldn’t wait to go to bed every night so I could read some more.
So well written.
Highly recommend!
I read Shaun’s trilogy first, which were excellent! Then it’s was so great to read about Two Tony’s. Thoroughly enjoyed every word.
Couldn’t wait to go to bed every night so I could read some more.
So well written.
Highly recommend!
January 4, 2019
Great
It was a great story from the beginning to end and was very thought provoking. I recommend giving it a read.
It was a great story from the beginning to end and was very thought provoking. I recommend giving it a read.
January 6, 2019
Ugh. Lousy writing, lousy storyline.
February 7, 2019
Cross between the sopranos an lilyhammer was a great read until find say 5 chapters got bored dragged finishinh it...
May 24, 2019
Not very good at all. It reads like he has plagiarised this from somebody else. The stories feel like hearsay and packed full of clichés.
July 17, 2019
Well written far from your usual crime book. Great for a weekend read
August 11, 2019
Two Tonys
Liked the way it was written straight from the horse's mouth....a bit vulgar but thats expected. Read it in one sitting.
Liked the way it was written straight from the horse's mouth....a bit vulgar but thats expected. Read it in one sitting.
April 10, 2020
strengthened
Decadence debt fervent everything f begged effected f received disc f discs. D Rebecca. Effect revved. D d d dvdvv
Decadence debt fervent everything f begged effected f received disc f discs. D Rebecca. Effect revved. D d d dvdvv
April 10, 2020
Very good book
Really thought it was a good read an felt sad 4 two things hope he in better place now bye mate
Really thought it was a good read an felt sad 4 two things hope he in better place now bye mate
April 16, 2020
A great insight from the author
June 17, 2020
A killer speaks
This was a no frills book. Two tonys makes no excuses for the life he lived and tells his story well. It's worth reading
This was a no frills book. Two tonys makes no excuses for the life he lived and tells his story well. It's worth reading
June 25, 2020
Great read
The book shows the atrocities oh mafia.life coupled with the true friendship within the prison walls. An unlikely friendship but yet loving and respectful
The book shows the atrocities oh mafia.life coupled with the true friendship within the prison walls. An unlikely friendship but yet loving and respectful
June 21, 2021
I don't know what to say about this book to be honest with you. At times it was interesting, but ultimately it all boils down to whether you believe it or not.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews