Gomorrah

by Roberto Saviano
Gomorrah cover
Good Books rating 4.06
Investigative Journalism
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Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 885
  • Added: 2025-09-21
  • Updated: 2025-11-11
  • ISBN: 9780330450997
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2008-01-01
  • Formats: 37
  • Reviews: 4

Gomorrah is a gripping and dangerous expose of the Camorra, a powerful mafia organization operating in Naples, Italy. The author, Roberto Saviano, infiltrates the criminal underworld by working undercover in various industries controlled by the Camorra, providing a firsthand account of their activities. His bravery in the face of constant threats and the vivid details he uncovers make this a chilling and eye-opening read. /n/n Saviano's investigation reveals the far-reaching influence of the Camorra, from textile manufacturing to construction, and the devastating impact on local communities. The book is not just a narrative of crime but also a commentary on the systemic corruption that allows such organizations to thrive. It's a testament to the power of investigative journalism and the personal sacrifices made to bring truth to light.

Reviews
The StoryGraph · 2025-09-21
great 3.50

This is a great tale, but the lyrical language can make it difficult to follow the narrative. The book is filled with run-on sentences and complex descriptions.

The reviewer acknowledges that the book is a great tale but notes that the lyrical language can make it difficult to follow the narrative. They highlight the presence of run-on sentences and complex descriptions, which can be challenging for some readers. Despite these challenges, the reviewer appreciates the book's unique storytelling style and the depth of its descriptions. They also note that the book's emotional power and impact are significant, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    This is a great tale, but the lyrical language can make it difficult to follow along with the narrative.

    Saviano is a comma queen and run-on sentences abound as the narrative unfolds.

    The book has a colour, noise and emotional power in its descriptions that had a huge impact.

Yevgeniy Brikman's Blog · Yevgeniy Brikman · 2023-09-01
amazing 4.75

The book is an amazing insider's reveal of the Italian mafia, showcasing the mind-blowing scope and scale of their operations. It is praised for its gripping and riveting narrative.

The reviewer is impressed by Gomorrah's insider perspective on the Italian mafia, finding it both amazing and revealing. They highlight the book's ability to showcase the vast scope and scale of the mafia's operations, which they find mind-blowing. The reviewer also appreciates the book's gripping and riveting narrative, which keeps the reader engaged throughout. They believe that the book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of organized crime.

Quick quotes

    The good An amazing insider's reveal of the Italian mafia. It shows that the scope & scale of their operations is absolutely mind blowing.

    It is praised for being extremely riveting throughout.

    The book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of organized crime.

Handful of Dust · 2019-06-22
brutal 4.00

This book is a brutal account of the ruthless business of the Camorra, filled with unforgettable characters. The narrative is intense and gripping throughout.

The reviewer describes this book as a brutal account of the ruthless business of the Camorra, filled with unforgettable characters. They note that the narrative is intense and gripping throughout, providing a stark look at the realities of organized crime. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to bring to life the brutal world of the Camorra, making it a compelling read. They also highlight the book's poetic language, which adds a unique layer to the storytelling.

Quick quotes

    Gomorrah is a brutal account of a brutal business populated by unbelievably ruthless characters who are all real!

    In the lands of the Camorrah, there is no glamour in this book.

    A book that can be both poetic and intensely gripping.

The Guardian · 2018-08-26
compelling 4.00

The book is described as a gripping and well-researched account of the Camorra's influence in Naples, with a writing style that is both vibrant and impactful. It is praised for its ability to create a public sense of the importance of legality.

The reviewer highlights Gomorrah as a compelling and well-researched account that delves into the intricate workings of the Camorra. They appreciate the book's vibrant writing style and its ability to convey the gravity of the situation in Naples. The reviewer also notes that the book's descriptions are emotionally powerful and have a significant impact on the reader. They believe that the book successfully raises awareness about the importance of legality and the need for change.

Quick quotes

    The book has a colour, noise and emotional power in its descriptions that had a huge impact and helped create a public sense of the importance of legality.

    It is full of facts and figures, making it a well-researched account of the Camorra's influence.

    The writing style is praised for being vibrant and impactful.

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