The Last Chicago Boss

September 15, 2017

The Godfather meets Harley Davidson in this book that tells the story of how author James became the head of the notorious motorcycle gang the Chicago Outlaws Motorcycle Club. With attorney and author Droban (Prodigal Father, Pagan Son), he outlines how he rose to power with the same ambition of CEOs of major companies; he just wanted more power. Starting at the lowest rung of the gang and working his way up, James took tips from leaders in other industries to be an effective leader of the Outlaws. One might not think a motorcycle gang boss would rehearse speeches, working on dramatic pauses, but he knew what worked. With his wife by his side, James did what he could to keep his gang together, invoking a sense of family, but once his health deteriorated, his effectiveness could not keep up. James is candid in showing a world that oozes with power and fear but also demonstrates that crime does not always pay. VERDICT A good read for those interested in motorcycle gangs and how they function as well as fans of Sons of Anarchy and The Godfather. It's gritty and seedy, and gives the reader an inside look at the world of Outlaws.--Ryan Claringbole, Wisconsin Dept. of Pub. Instruction, Madison

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