The Break Away by Bryan Smith

An insider’s look at one of Chicago’s most powerful, private, and influential families—and the empire that reshaped hockey, liquor distribution, real estate, and the city itself.
 
The Break Away by journalist Bryan Smith delivers the first in-depth, behind-the-scenes account of the Wirtz family, one of Chicago’s most influential dynasties. Known for owning the Chicago Blackhawks, the United Center, and one of the nation’s largest liquor distribution businesses, the Wirtz family has shaped Chicago’s sports landscape and corporate culture for over a century.
 
Through exclusive interviews, archival research, and sharp investigative storytelling, Smith traces the rise of the Wirtz empire—from early Prohibition-era deals to modern leadership transitions under Rocky Wirtz. The book explores the family’s complicated legacy: financial power, secrecy, internal conflict, business triumphs, and the dramatic turnaround of the Blackhawks franchise.
 
Compelling, meticulously reported, and filled with Chicago flavor, The Break Away offers a rare look into a family that has long kept its operations out of public view, revealing how their decisions ripple far beyond the rink.
 
💖 Why You’ll Love It
Fascinating deep dive into a powerful Chicago dynasty
Blends sports history, business strategy, and investigative reporting
Behind-the-scenes insights into the Chicago Blackhawks’ transformation
Engaging, fast-paced narrative by a respected journalist
Perfect for fans of Chicago history and corporate drama
 
🌟 Perfect For
Chicago sports fans — especially Blackhawks followers
Readers of business histories and corporate biographies
Anyone curious about powerful American families
Fans of investigative nonfiction
Book clubs wanting real-life drama and discussion
 
❤️ Fans Also Liked
The Cubs Way — Tom Verducci
Playing Through the Whistle — S.L. Price