______________________________________ With an exclusive introduction by director Francis Ford Coppola Tyrant, blackmailer, racketeer, murderer - his influence reaches every level of American society. Meet Don Corleone, a friendly man, a just man, a reasonable man. The deadliest lord of the Cosa Nostra. The Godfather. A modern masterpiece, The Godfather is a searing portrait of the 1940s criminal underworld. It is also the intimate story of the Corleone family, at once drawn together and ripped apart by its unique position at the core of the American Mafia. Mario Puzo's compelling tale of blackmail, murder and family values is a true classic, and remains just as shocking fifty years after it was first published. This special anniversary edition is a must-have for admirers of the novel and essential reading for fans of the timeless film adaptations.