Young Al Capone: The Untold Story of Scarface in New York, 1899-1925 - Softcover

Many people are familiar with the story of Al Capone, the "untouchable" Chicago gangster best known for orchestrating the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. But few are aware that Capone's remarkable story began in the Navy Yard section of Brooklyn, New York. Tutored by the likes of infamous mobsters Johnny Torrio and Frankie Yale, young Capone's disquieting demeanor, combined with the "technical advice" he learned from these insidious pedagogues, contributed to the molding of a brutal criminal whose pseudonym, "Scarface," evoked fascination throughout the world. Despite the best efforts of previous biographers lacking true insider's access, details about Capone's early years have, until now, mostly been shrouded in mystery. With access gained through invaluable familial connections, the authors were able to open the previously sealed mouths of Capone's known living associates. Collecting information through these interviews and never-before-published documents, the life of young Al Capone at last comes into focus.

WILLIAM BALSAMO, considered by many to be one of the premier Capone historians, has invested more than twenty five years in researching and writing this unique book. He is the author of Crime, Inc., now in its fifth printing, and served as a consultant to both Brian DePalma's blockbuster 1987 The Untouchables, and the companion book for the 1994 Fox TV special, Loyalty and Betrayal: The Story of the American Mob, produced by Nicholas Pillegi (Wiseguy, Casino). Mr. Balsamo's many television appearances include documentary features on the History Channel, A&E, the Learning Channel, Discovery Channel, Travel Channel, and, most recently, the Bio Channel. He lives in Staten Island, New York. JOHN BALSAMO is the chief executive of SUPERDON INC., a company that markets board games. Previous to that, John worked on the Brooklyn waterfront for more than thirty years while compiling extensive material regarding the life of young Capone. He lives in Staten Island, New York.