The Valachi Papers

*The Valachi Papers* is a non-fiction book by Peter Maas that reveals the inner workings of the American Mafia through the testimony of Joseph Valachi, a mobster who turned state's witness in the 1960s. Valachi’s detailed disclosures exposed the Mafia’s structure, code, and criminal activities, offering rare insight into organized crime. The book highlights how Valachi’s cooperation led to big law enforcement breakthroughs but also marked the first time a high-ranking mobster publicly acknowledged the existence of the Mafia. It remains a significant account of organized crime in the United States.