Publisher Description

The true story of the card-sharking, gun-slinging, golf-hustling American legend who inspired the character of Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls. Titanic Thompson is the rollicking true story of one of the most charismatic characters in twentieth-century America. Travelling only with his golf clubs, a .45 revolver, and a suitcase full of cash, this is the legendary tale of a man who was married five times to five different girls, all teenagers on their wedding day; of a man who murdered five men, though he'd say they'd all agree they had it coming to them; and of a man who won and lost millions in a time when being a millionaire still really meant something. Filled with fascinating facts and famous faces - Harry Houdini, Al Capone, Arnold Rothstein and Jean Harlow all make appearances - this is a brilliant and compelling snapshot of life on the road in freewheelin America.

Notes

Subtitled, The Man Who Bet On Everything. Paperback edition of the true story of the legendary America hustler who married 5 women and killed 5 men. He also inspired the character of Sky Masterson in Guys & Dolls.

Author Biography

Kevin Cook's previous book, Tommy's Honour, was shortlisted for the William Hill Prize, and although it didn't win, the Daily Telegraph called it 'the stand-out book on a strong short list'. He writes for numerous magazines and has appeared on ESPN and CNN. He lives in New York.

Review

`Ridiculously engaging' Metro `A more colourful, exciting biography might emerge this year, but I wouldn't put money on it' The Times `Ever heard of Titanic Thompson? Me neither, until I read this enthralling and compulsively readable account of his life' Independent on Sunday

Review Quote

'Ridiculously engaging' Metro

Promotional "Headline"

The True Story of the Card-Sharking, Gun-Slinging, Golf-Hustling American Legend who inspired the character of Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls

Details