The Snakehead: An Epic Tale of the Chinatown Underworld and the American Dream

The Snakehead is a thrilling story of real-life events that investigates a secret world run by a charismatic middle-aged grandmother, Cheng Chui Ping, who smuggled people from a tiny noodle shop in New York's Chinatown. It is a crime story and a brilliant exploration of the ironies of immigration in America.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 16 February 2023
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

In his captivating book, "The Snakehead," bestselling author Patrick Radden Keefe delves into the intricate world of a secret criminal empire run by a charismatic middle-aged grandmother from New York's Chinatown. With a backdrop of gun battles, ruthless kingpins, and a mountain of cash, this thrilling story of real-life events is reminiscent of classic films like "The Godfather" and "Chinatown." However, what sets "The Snakehead" apart is its authenticity, as it is based on true events.

Keefe's investigation takes readers into the heart of Cheng Chui Ping's complex empire, which involved smuggling people across borders. Through his detailed account, he sheds light on the inner workings of Sister Ping's organization and the decade-long FBI investigation that ultimately brought her down. The book follows the journey of desperate immigrants who risk everything to come to America, as well as the often incompetent and sometimes corrupt INS agents who pursue them.

What makes "The Snakehead" truly remarkable is its ability to capture the complexities of immigration in America. Keefe paints a vivid portrait of a generation of undocumented immigrants who are forced to navigate a treacherous underground economy that sustains and exploits them. He highlights the ironies of their situation, where they are both victims and perpetrators of crime, yet they are often marginalized and stigmatized by society.

"The Snakehead" is a powerful piece of reportage that offers a glimpse into the violent underworld of New York's Chinatown. It is a must-read for anyone interested in crime, immigration, and the human condition. Keefe's writing is compelling, and his investigation is thorough, making this book an essential addition to the literature on these topics.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529099881