In Charlie Wilson’s War, George Crile tells the tale of the rowdy, booze-loving and skirt-chasing Texan congressman who helped catalyze the billions in U.S. funding for the Afghan mujahideen during the 1980s. Both Wilson and friend Joanne Herring became passionate supporters of Pakistan and the Afghan cause, developing strong ties with Pakistani President Zia-ul-Haq.

I managed to pick up a copy of the bestseller two years ago for $5 at Barnes and Noble. The book — a great read — has been made into a film starring Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts. Charlie Wilson’s War the movie opens across the U.S. on December 21. Check out the preview below.