Chicago in the 1950s and1960s was a city riddled with crime. The mafia and organized crime flourished while many in law enforcement ignored countless transgressions and were on the take. Bribery was a fact of life.
This is a true story of a young couple, Norma and Bernard, who owned a small tavern on the north side of Chicago. They unknowingly hire a hitman as bartender and end up crossing paths with Sam De Stefano, a man labeled as the worst torturer in the history of the United States.
One day a holdup changed their lives forever.
It must have taken great strength for Norma McCluskie to relive and share the horrific events from her past. As I read, I found myself tearing up as the words made me feel the terror and heartbreak of the author. The McCluskies' spirit and determination kept their family together during a time when they didn't know who to trust.
I found this book to be one I couldn't put down! An unbelievable story of the life of a family trying to make their place in the world. What an inspiration of how good can triumph over evil! Mrs. McCluskie is the strongest woman I have ever met!
This book is a terrific read. As an avid reader of chicago history and mafia stories, Norma provides a poignant first hand account of the misfortune of honest hard working family who unwittingly become entangled with the Mob. This poor family became a pawn between the a corrupt political/criminal justice system and the chicago outfit. It is a story of preseverance and triumph in the face of many tragedies. While an quick, easy read, the writing allows the reader to truly empathize with the emotions felt by the author. I highly recommend this book.
Great writing that shares a family's life experience in Chicago and how they moved forward and through the 1960's. The author has captured my heart and spirit with her words. I grew up in Chicago during this era and feel this is a "must read" for anyone that has experienced Chicago during this time period or an interest in Chicago history!
