Titanic Thompson

This lively biography encapsulates the essence of a carefree era, painting a vivid picture of the risk-taking hero who was the inspiration behind Guys and Dolls. Alvin “Titanic” Thompson (1892-1974), born in an Ozark log cabin, journeyed with his golf clubs, a .45 revolver, and a suitcase full of cash. He gambled millions on cards, dice, golf, pool, and his own perilous games. He was married five times, each time to a teenage bride, and was responsible for the deaths of five men. Thompson was the kingpin of New York’s underground craps games in the 1920s and was the real-life counterpart of Damon Runyon’s smooth-talking Sky Masterson. He was a dominant figure in golf before the PGA Tour era, playing alongside greats like Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, Lee Trevino, and Ray Floyd. Thompson also fooled Al Capone with card tricks, lost a million to Minnesota Fats before teaming up with him to win it all back, and may have been the best golfer of his time. Titanic Thompson is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a wager, bringing to life the vibrant era of a unique character: America’s first road gambler.