Who is the author of 'American Desperado'?

The authors of 'American Desperado' are Jon Roberts, Evan Wright.

What are the main themes in 'American Desperado'?

The main themes in 'American Desperado' include Biography, Memoirs.

What genre is 'American Desperado'?

'American Desperado' is categorized as Biography.

What is the main premise of 'American Desperado'?

'American Desperado' is a memoir by Jon Roberts, who was a notorious figure in the drug trade during the late 20th century. The book chronicles Roberts' life, detailing his rise as a drug lord, his connections to organized crime, and his experiences in the violent world of drug trafficking. Co-authored by Evan Wright, the narrative explores themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of a life steeped in crime, offering insights into the culture of the American underworld.

Who are the authors of 'American Desperado' and what is their background?

'American Desperado' is written by Jon Roberts and Evan Wright. Jon Roberts is a former drug lord and a key figure in the cocaine trade during the 1980s. He is known for his connections to both the drug trafficking world and various influential figures in Miami. Evan Wright is an author and journalist, best known for his book 'Generation Kill', which chronicles the experiences of a Marine Corps reconnaissance battalion during the Iraq War. Wright's writing often focuses on themes of crime, conflict, and human experience.

What themes are explored in the book, such as the American Dream or crime?

'American Desperado' explores several themes, notably: The American Dream: The book delves into the complexities of the American Dream, showcasing how ambition and the pursuit of success can lead individuals down a dark path. It questions whether the dream is attainable through legitimate means or if crime becomes a viable route. Crime and Morality: The narrative reflects on the moral ambiguity of crime. It portrays the protagonist's life within the drug trade and organized crime, examining how illegal activities can be driven by a desire for power, respect, and financial gain. Identity and Self-Perception: The book discusses themes of identity, particularly how one's past and choices shape their present. As Roberts reflects on his life, he grapples with his self-image and the consequences of his actions. Violence and Survival: The theme of violence is prevalent throughout the book, illustrating its role in the criminal underworld. It showcases how survival often requires extreme measures and tough decisions in a brutal environment. Friendship and Loyalty: Relationships are deeply examined, particularly the bonds formed in the tight-knit world of crime. The complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and camaraderie come into play, highlighting how these relationships can be both supportive and destructive. Through these themes, 'American Desperado' provides a gripping exploration of the lengths individuals will go to achieve their desires and the moral implications of their choices.

Can you describe the main character's journey throughout the book?

In "American Desperado," Jon Roberts, the main character, embarks on a tumultuous journey that showcases his transformation from a young man in post-Vietnam America to a notorious drug lord deeply entrenched in the underbelly of the drug trade. The narrative begins with Roberts' early life, detailing his experiences as a Vietnam veteran and the disillusionment he faced upon returning home. As he grapples with the societal changes of the time and his own personal demons, he becomes involved in the burgeoning cocaine trade, driven by both the allure of wealth and a desire for power. Roberts' journey is fraught with danger as he navigates the violent world of organized crime, establishing connections with infamous figures in the drug world. Throughout the book, readers see his moral complexities; while he commits acts of violence and betrayal, he also displays loyalty and a certain code of ethics among his peers. His rise to power is marked by both success and tragedy, as he faces betrayals and the relentless pursuit of law enforcement. Ultimately, Jon Roberts' journey is one of ambition, self-discovery, and the search for redemption as he reflects on the choices he made and the cost of his lifestyle. The narrative culminates in his efforts to distance himself from his past while grappling with the consequences of his actions, leaving the reader to ponder the nature of guilt, responsibility, and the possibility of change.

What are some key events that shape the narrative of 'American Desperado'?

In 'American Desperado', several key events shape the narrative: Jon Roberts' Early Life: The book begins with Jon Roberts' background, detailing his childhood and early influences that led him into a life of crime. Rise in the Drug Trade: A significant part of the narrative revolves around Roberts' involvement in the cocaine trade in Miami during the 1970s and 1980s. His experiences reflect the explosive growth of the drug industry in America. Partnership with the Medellín Cartel: Roberts' alliance with notorious figures within the Medellín Cartel highlights key moments in the story, illustrating the complexities and dangers of his operations within the global drug market. Violence and Betrayal: Key events include the violent confrontations with rival gangs and the betrayal by those close to him, which ultimately impact his life and operations profoundly. Law Enforcement Pursuit: The ongoing chase by law enforcement agencies serves as a backdrop, showcasing the cat-and-mouse dynamic between Roberts and the authorities. Life Changes and Reflections: The narrative also delves into moments of introspection where Roberts reflects on his choices, the morality of his actions, and the consequences they have on his life. Final Escalations: The culmination of tensions leads to critical turning points that reshape Roberts' path, leading to his eventual decision to leave the violent life behind.

American Desperado Book Summary

In 'American Desperado,' Jon Roberts recounts his thrilling and dangerous journey from a childhood in the Bronx to becoming a notorious figure in the world of organized crime and drug trafficking. Co-authored by Evan Wright, the memoir reveals the gritty underbelly of the American Dream, where ambition and crime intertwine. Readers will be captivated by Roberts' encounters with infamous mobsters and the extraordinary risks he took to achieve power and wealth in a ruthless environment. As secrets unravel, the line between hero and villain blurs, leaving audiences questioning the true cost of desperation. Dive into this gripping narrative that offers an unfiltered look at a life lived on the edge.

By Jon Roberts, Evan Wright

Published: 2012

"In a world where the line between ambition and desperation blurs, the true measure of a man is not his successes, but how he navigates the shadows of his own choices."

The true story of super-criminal Jon Roberts, star of the documentary Cocaine Cowboys. American Desperado is Roberts’ no-holds-barred account of being born into Mafia royalty, witnessing his first murder at the age of seven, becoming a hunter-assassin in Vietnam, returning to New York to become--at age 22--one of the city’s leading nightclub impresarios, then journeying to Miami where in a few short years he would rise to become the Medellin Cartel’s most effective smuggler. But that’s just half the tale. The roster of Roberts’ friends and acquaintances reads like a Who’s Who of the latter half of the 20th century and includes everyone from Jimi Hendrix, Richard Pryor, and O.J. Simpson to Carlo Gambino, Meyer Lansky, and Manuel Noriega. Nothing if not colorful, Roberts surrounded himself with beautiful women, drove his souped-up street car at a top speed of 180 miles per hour, shared his bed with a 200-pound cougar, and employed a 6”6” professional wrestler called “The Thing” as his bodyguard. Ultimately, Roberts became so powerful that he attracted the attention of the Republican Party’s leadership, was wooed by them, and even was co-opted by the CIA for which he carried out its secret agenda. Scrupulously documented and relentlessly propulsive, this collaboration between a bloodhound journalist and one of the most audacious criminals ever is like no other crime book you’ve ever read.

Evan Wright is an acclaimed American author and journalist, best known for his vivid narratives that merge personal experience with broader sociopolitical themes. His most notable works include 'Generation Kill,' an evocative firsthand account of the U.S. invasion of Iraq, which was later adapted into an acclaimed HBO miniseries. Wright's writing style is characterized by its immersive detail and raw honesty, drawing heavily on his experiences as a former Marine and journalist. He also authored 'The Last Cowboy,' a non-fiction work that explores the world of professional bull riding. With a keen eye for storytelling, Wright captures the complexities of the human experience in challenging environments.

Similar books you might like →