The Godfather (novel)

The Godfather is a crime novel by Italian American author Mario Puzo. Originally published on 10 March 1969 by G. P. Putnam's Sons, the novel details the story of a fictional Mafia family in New York City and Long Island, headed by Vito Corleone: the Godfather. The novel covers the years 1945 to 1955 and includes the backstory of Vito Corleone from early childhood to adulthood. The first in a series of novels, The Godfather is noteworthy for introducing Italian words like consigliere, caporegime, Cosa Nostra, and omertà to an English-speaking audience. It was adapted into the iconic 1972 film of the same name, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Two film sequels, featuring original storylines that include contributions by Puzo himself, were released in 1974 and 1990.