"I Heard You Paint Houses" is a book by Charles Brandt that explores the life of Frank Sheeran, a former labor union official and hitman. The title refers to a phrase used in the mob, indicating that someone is involved in murder, as "painting houses" refers to the blood that stains the walls. The book details Sheeran's confessions about his involvement with the Buffalo crime family and his relationship with Jimmy Hoffa, the former president of the Teamsters. It provides insights into organized crime in America and the complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of a life of crime.