Arms and the Dudes PDF is a non-fiction book by Guy Lawson that was published in 2015 by Simon & Schuster. It tells the true story of two young men, David Packouz and Efraim Diveroli, who became unlikely arms dealers during the Iraq War. The book details their rise from small-time businessmen to major players in the international arms trade, and their eventual downfall when they were caught and prosecuted for illegal arms dealing.
| Book | Arms and the Dudes |
| Author | Guy Lawson |
| Original language | English |
| Originally published | 1963 |
| Category | History, True crime |
| Publisher | Simon and Schuster |
| Total Pages | 288 |
| Format | PDF, ePub |
The book has received widespread critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling and well-researched reporting. It has been praised for shedding light on the corrupt and murky world of the international arms trade, as well as the role of private contractors in the Iraq War. Many readers have also praised the book for its insightful commentary on the human cost of war and the moral compromises that people are willing to make in pursuit of money and power.
The themes explored in “Arms and the Dudes” include the corrupting influence of money, the dangers of unregulated arms dealing, the role of private contractors in modern warfare, and the moral ambiguity of the War on Terror. Arms and the Dudes is available in a variety of formats, including hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook.
Table of Contents
Summary of Arms and the Dudes
The book starts by introducing the two main characters and their background. David was a struggling massage therapist who was looking for a way to make some quick money, while Efraim was a cocky and ambitious teenager who had grown up in the arms industry. They met by chance and decided to team up to bid on government contracts to supply weapons and ammunition to US troops in Iraq.
As they began to win more and more contracts, David and Efraim found themselves making huge profits and living a life of luxury. They traveled the world, bought expensive cars, and threw wild parties. However, as they became more successful, they also became more reckless and started to cut corners and break the law to make even more money.
The book then goes on to describe how David and Efraim’s illegal activities caught up with them. They were investigated by the government and eventually charged with fraud, conspiracy, and illegal arms dealing. The rest of the book follows their trial and the aftermath of their conviction.
Critical Reception
“Arms and the Dudes” by Guy Lawson received generally positive reviews from critics. Here is an overview of the critical reception:
- The New York Times: The book was praised by The New York Times for its gripping storytelling and engaging narrative. The review highlighted Lawson’s ability to capture the audacity and recklessness of the main characters, as well as the high-stakes world of international arms dealing.
- Publishers Weekly: Publishers Weekly commended Lawson for his in-depth research and investigative journalism, which provided a fascinating and disturbing look into the world of illegal arms trafficking. The review noted that Lawson’s writing style and attention to detail made the complex subject matter accessible to readers.
- Kirkus Reviews: Kirkus Reviews praised the book for its fast-paced and cinematic storytelling. The review noted that Lawson’s skillful blend of investigative journalism and narrative storytelling created a compelling read that kept readers engaged throughout.
- The Washington Post: The Washington Post described “Arms and the Dudes” as a thrilling and meticulously researched account of a true-life crime story. The review praised Lawson’s ability to balance the narrative with historical context, giving readers a deeper understanding of the arms industry.
While the majority of reviews were positive, it’s worth noting that some readers and critics felt that the book lacked a deeper exploration of the moral and ethical implications of the characters’ actions. However, overall, “Arms and the Dudes” was well-received for its captivating storytelling and the insights it provided into the world of illicit arms dealing.
Where to Buy?
Arms and the Dudes is available on Amazon to purchase in a variety of formats, including hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook.
| Book Editions | Check Now |
|---|---|
| English | Check Price |
About the Author
Guy Lawson, the author of “Arms and the Dudes”, is an American journalist and non-fiction writer. He was born on September 30, 1957, in New York City, and has written extensively on a wide range of topics, including crime, politics, and culture.
Lawson is a graduate of Wesleyan University and the Columbia University School of Journalism. He has written for numerous publications, including Rolling Stone, GQ, and The New York Times Magazine, and has also authored several other books, including “The Brotherhoods: The True Story of Two Cops Who Murdered for the Mafia” and “Octopus: Sam Israel, the Secret Market, and Wall Street’s Wildest Con”.
In addition to his work as a journalist and author, Lawson has also worked as a screenwriter and producer. He co-wrote the screenplay for the 2016 film “War Dogs”, which was based on “Arms and the Dudes”.
Lawson is known for his in-depth investigative reporting and his ability to uncover the hidden truths behind complex and often controversial topics. He has won numerous awards for his work, including the John Bartlow Martin Award for Public Interest Magazine Journalism and the Deadline Club Award for Investigative Journalism.
Download Arms and the Dudes PDF Online
Click on the download button below to get a pdf file of Arms and the Dudes book.
People Also Search For
- Merchant of Death: Money, Guns, Planes, and the Man Who Makes War Possible by Douglas Farah
- The Shadow World: Inside the Global Arms Trade by Andrew Feinstein
- Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
- The Dogs Are Eating Them Now: Our War in Afghanistan by Graeme Smith
- Blackwater: The Rise of the World’s Most Powerful Mercenary Army by Jeremy Scahill
- Dirty Wars: The World Is a Battlefield by Jeremy Scahill
