All the Pieces Matter

The Inside Story of The Wire®

By: Jonathan Abrams

Narrated by: Jonathan Abrams, January LaVoy, Prentice Onayemi, Arthur Bishop

The definitive oral history of the iconic and beloved TV show The Wire, as told by the actors, writers, directors, and others involved in its creation.

Since its final episode aired in 2008, HBO's acclaimed crime drama The Wire has only become more popular and influential. The issues it tackled, from the failures of the drug war and criminal justice system to systemic bias in law enforcement and other social institutions, have become more urgent and central to the national conversation. The show's actors, such as Idris Elba, Dominic West, and Michael B. Jordan, have gone on to become major stars. Its creators and writers, including David Simon and Richard Price, have developed dedicated cult followings of their own. Universities use the show to teach everything from film theory to criminal justice to sociology. Politicians and activists reference it when discussing policy. When critics compile lists of the Greatest TV Shows of All Time, The Wire routinely takes the top spot. It is arguably one of the great works of art America has produced in the 20th century.

But while there has been a great deal of critical analysis of the show and its themes, until now there has never been a definitive, behind-the-scenes take on how it came to be made. With unparalleled access to all the key actors and writers involved in its creation, Jonathan Abrams tells the astonishing, compelling, and complete account of The Wire, from its inception and creation through its end and powerful legacy.

Great book about an incredible show.

I loved it. I've watched the series three times, and am now eager to watch it again.

A MUST for fans

“There are two types of people in this world. Those that have seen The Wire and those that haven’t.”

Terrific companion piece to one of the greatest shows of all time. Amazing to hear the creators, writers, actors, and crew discuss the impact of this show on them and society at large.

At first. I was disappointed that the actors from the show weren’t narrating. However, I got over that quickly. The performance is excellent.

Wire fans still won’t get enough

I discovered Abrams from his book boys to men. It was such a well developed story despite telling facts that I knew he’d excel at formatting all the wire stories. His ability to make quotes into a 12 hour listen was marvelous. If it was 24 hours long I still wouldn’t of had enough, much like the series we are left wanting more!

Details about the show

Good voices , interesting stories about the show. I like how they explain each season and how they made decisions.

narration

Abrams isn't good as a performer but he doesn't read most of the book, so it isn't that much of a detriment.