Book Review

I finished reading Hell's Angels by Ralph "Sonny" Barger. He's the guy that started the Hell's Angel's Oakland Chapter. It was a really interesting book. Not a straight through storyline, per se, but more of memories and stories from throughout his life. Some are extremely funny, while others are kind of shocking. It was really cool to read about the most infamous motorcycle club from an insiders perspective, rather than from the law inforcement side like you get on all of those specials on the history channel. Though I don't agree with everything that they did, often I found myself agreeing with why they did it.

This book might not be for everyone, but if you are a fan of the TV show "Son's of Anarchy", then you should definitely pick up a copy of this.

Synopsis

In this most intriguing and insightful look into the highly controversial, five-decade-old Hell's Angels Motorcycle Club (HAMC), Barger chronicles the formation, history, and colorful events that have led to the mystique and outlaw image of this free-thinking organization. In 1957, Barger (a technical consultant on several biker films, including Hell's Angels on Wheels and Hell's Angels '69) formed the Oakland chapter, which would become the foundation and serve as headquarters for the entire club. In his own words, Barger shares stories of pool hall fights, motorcycle runs, the importance of loyalty and honor, and relentless battles against the government efforts to destroy the HAMC. He also tells his side of the infamous 1969 Rolling Stones concert at Altamont Raceway. The many photos provide additional glimpses into this wild and dangerous American subculture. A most interesting book that is recommended for popular culture collections.