Hell's Angels

by Hunter S Thompson
Hell's Angels cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Investigative Journalism
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Format • £9.49
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Paperback • £9.99–£15.99
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Technical
  • ID: 2793
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9780307826619
  • Publisher: Ballantine Books
  • Published: 2012-08-01
  • Formats: 6
  • Reviews: 3

Hell's Angels by Hunter S. Thompson is a gripping account of the author's time spent living with the infamous Hell's Angels motorcycle gang. Thompson's vivid and unfiltered reporting brings to life the anarchic spirit and rebellious lifestyle of the Angels, offering a unique perspective on a defining moment in American history. Through his distinctive Gonzo journalism style, Thompson delivers a brutally honest and nuanced portrayal of the gang, blending humor and insight to create a compelling narrative that remains relevant decades later. /n/n Published in 1967, this book is not just a chronicle of the Hell's Angels but also a snapshot of the countercultural movements that electrified and horrified America. Thompson's fearless approach and incisive eye make Hell's Angels a seminal work of investigative journalism, providing an unparalleled look into the lives of these outlaw motorcyclists and the subculture they embodied.

Reviews
Reddit - r/books · 2025-10-16
entertaining 4.00

The book is described as extremely entertaining, painting a vivid picture of the Hell's Angels as outcasts living in their own world. The reviewer finds the characters fascinating and the narrative captivating.

The reviewer found the book to be a thrilling read, highlighting the unique and often chaotic lifestyle of the Hell's Angels. They appreciated the raw and unfiltered portrayal of the group, which they found both entertaining and insightful. The reviewer particularly enjoyed the way the book delves into the psychology and motivations of the Angels, providing a deeper understanding of their subculture. However, they also noted that the book might not be for everyone, given its intense and sometimes disturbing content.

Quick quotes

    I found the whole book extremely entertaining.

    These guys literally live in a world of their own.

    They are the truest definition of loser and outcast I've ever come across.

I Fear Those Big Words · 2024-07-29
mixed 3.00

The book is hard to recommend due to its niche appeal, but the reviewer believes it can still be worth reading for those interested in the subject matter. They acknowledge the book's unique value and its potential to offer insights into the Hell's Angels' world.

The reviewer finds it challenging to wholeheartedly recommend Hell's Angels due to its specialized content and the fact that it might not appeal to a broad audience. However, they acknowledge that the book can still be valuable for readers who are particularly interested in the Hell's Angels or the genre of gonzo journalism. The reviewer appreciates Thompson's fearless approach and the unique insights he provides into the subculture, even if the book's appeal is limited.

Quick quotes

    It's hard to recommend Hell's Angels.

    Only you know if you're likely to get any value out of it.

    I think this kind of book can still be worth reading.

The MBIP Saturday Morning Book Club · 2018-10-06
intriguing 3.50

The book was initially mistaken for non-fiction, but the reviewer later realized it was a work of literary journalism. They found it a strange and terrible saga that offers a unique perspective on the Hell's Angels.

The reviewer initially thought the book was a non-fiction account of Hunter S. Thompson's personal experiences with the Hell's Angels. However, they later understood that it was a work of literary journalism, which added a layer of complexity to their reading. They described the book as a strange and terrible saga, highlighting Thompson's ability to capture the essence of the Hell's Angels' lifestyle. The reviewer appreciated the book's unique perspective and the way it delves into the darker aspects of the subculture.

Quick quotes

    When I first read it, I thought, like most people it was non-fiction and that he actually lived through this crazy adventure.

    It's a strange and terrible saga.

    Years later, I realized it was a work of literary journalism.

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