Being Oscar: From Mob Lawyer to Mayor of Las Vegas--Only in America

Shoot-from-the-lip remarks abound as long-serving Mafia lawyer and former Las Vegas mayor Goodman delivers a fast-paced, entertaining account of his over-the-top life. The son of a Philadelphia attorney, Goodman entered the legal profession and spent 35 years defending some of organized crime's biggest names. As though that weren't enough excitement for one lifetime, in 1999 he was elected mayor of Las Vegas and served three terms (presently his wife holds the job). Stemming from his philosophy to "never back down," his courtroom antics were well known and his contention that many law enforcers shirk their duty created a contentious relationship with the FBI. Goodman defend-ed the infamous gangster Tony Spilotro numerous times, describing him as "fearless, honorable to a fault with me," and says Spilotro never complained about the hand he was dealt. As mayor Goodman worked tirelessly to revitalize the city center and here addresses his controversial support of regulated and legalized prostitution. Though Goodman's ego comes through on the page, the man brims with charm and humor. (June)