This book is a semi-autobiographical account of the author's experiences as a steamboat pilot on the Mississippi River before the American Civil War. It provides a detailed and humorous depiction of life and society along the river, including the author's own journey from an eager young apprentice to a seasoned riverboat pilot. The book also includes a travelogue of a journey down the Mississippi River much later in life, offering a look at the dramatic changes brought about by industrialization and the Civil War.

This book provides an immersive exploration of the infamous motorcycle gang, the Hell's Angels, as seen through the eyes of a journalist who spent a year living and riding with them. The narrative delves into the lifestyle, mindset, and public perception of these notorious figures, offering a raw and unfiltered look into their world. It also examines the wider cultural context of the 1960s, including societal anxieties and the counterculture movement, and how these factors intersect with the Hell's Angels' existence.

This book is a satirical exploration of the interactions and contradictions between high society and radical politics in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The first part of the book focuses on a fundraising party for the Black Panthers hosted by a wealthy New York couple, examining the complex mix of guilt, fascination, and patronizing attitudes among the elite guests. The second part of the book delves into the dynamics of racial tension and bureaucracy in San Francisco, revealing how marginalized groups learned to manipulate the system for their own benefit.

This book is a visceral, first-person account of the 1972 presidential campaign, as seen through the eyes of a maverick journalist. It blends political analysis, cultural commentary, and personal anecdotes to capture the chaotic spirit of the election that pitted incumbent President Richard Nixon against Democratic challenger George McGovern. The narrative is infused with the author's signature gonzo style, characterized by a highly subjective and often satirical approach to journalism. Through a series of articles originally written for a major magazine, the book delves into the machinations of political operatives, the mood of the American electorate, and the dark underbelly of the campaign trail, all while grappling with the broader implications of the American political system.

"The Wordy Shipmates" is a historical narrative that explores the journey and lives of the Massachusetts Bay Colonists, who left England in the 1630s in pursuit of religious freedom in America. The book delves into the paradoxes of these Puritans, who were both freedom seekers and authoritarians, and their influence on American identity. It also provides a detailed look at their relationships, conflicts, and the hardships they faced, all set against the backdrop of their religious and political beliefs.