All the Pieces Matter
The authoritative oral history of the legendary and popular television show The Wire, as told by the performers, writers, directors, and others involved in its development.
HBO's critically acclaimed criminal drama The Wire has only grown in popularity and influence since its final episode aired in 2008. The issues it addressed have become increasingly important and fundamental to the national discussion, ranging from the failings of the drug war and criminal justice system to systematic prejudice in law enforcement and other social institutions. Idris Elba, Dominic West, and Michael B. Jordan, among others, have gone on to become significant stars as a result of their roles in the show. David Simon and Richard Price, among the show's founders and writers, have established cult followings of their own. The show is used at universities to teach a variety of subjects, including cinema theory, criminal justice, and sociology. When politicians and activists talk about policy, they bring it up. The Wire has consistently ranked first on reviewers' rankings of the Greatest TV Shows of All Time. It is perhaps one of America's greatest works of art from the twentieth century.
But, while the program and its ideas have gotten a lot of critical attention, there has never been a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at how it was created. Jonathan Abrams chronicles the fascinating, riveting, and full story of The Wire, from its origin and development to its death and tremendous legacy, with unprecedented access to all of the main performers and writers involved in its production.
