Rockdetector Book

Not particularly a story that breaks new ground, but the extent to which the FBI tried to build a case against Frank Sinatra is surprising, as detailed in this book. "The Sinatra Files" offers up a lot of information, but collapses under its own weight, unfortunately, as this book reads like a dossier of sorts. If that was the goal, then I guess it succeeds.

Most people with even general knowledge of Frank Sinatra's life probably have some semblance of the allegations of mob connections, bolstered by his friendship with famed Chicago-area mobster Sam Giancana. There are a lot of details of how mobsters seemed to be affiliated with Sinatra's every move, but ultimately there is no smoking gun that defines Sinatra as a mobster himself, much to the chagrin of the Hoover Administration and the FBI. Nevertheless, the story of how much the FBI would read into Sinatra's actions is surprising if not scandalous overall.

Such is the case with the FBI's attempt to uncover Frank Sinatra as a Communist sympathizer working in Hollywood and with clandestine ties to the red party at every turn. The accusation was preposterous then and remains so by the conclusion of this book; Sinatra was no more a Communist than most of the accused, and the bona fide witchhunt that occurred during that era always makes for a compelling read.

The "supporting" cast of characters in this book aren't portrayed in a glamorous light, either, within these pages. JFK could not be more defamed here, but it would appear as though most of what is said is verifiable, regarding his philandering ways. In many ways, this book is more of an indictment of Kennedy than it ever is of Sinatra.

While there may have been some unsavory activity and downright sleaziness in Frank Sinatra's life, a case of being a mafia-tied Communist it does not make. What a strange period of time in the FBI's history, though, that it sought to defame celebrities of the highest order in order to protect the country. A detailed and odd book but not necessarily one anyone should rush to read.