Rechy's tone rings absolutely true, is absolutely his own, and he has the kind of discipline which allows him a rare and beautiful recklessness. tells the truth, and tells it with such passion that we are forced to share in the life he conveys. This is a most humbling and liberating achievement. -- James Baldwin

One of the major books to be published since World War II. - The Washington Post

<i>City of Night</i> is a remarkable book . . . Mr. Rechy writes in an authentic jive-like slang: the nightmare existence is explored with a clarity not often clouded by sentimentality and self-pity. The book therefore has the unmistakable ring of candor and truth. - The New York Times Book Review

A breathless, amphetamine-fuelled dash across America ... Rechy's descriptive energy is instead reserved for city life's twilight world and a colourful parade of characters... his descriptive energy surpasses any queer literature label. - New Statesman

John Rechy's groundbreaking novel <i>City of Night</i> lifted the lid on gay life in `60's America ... it broke new ground with its depiction of the gay sexual subculture in America's cities ... The author is ripe for rediscovery. - Time Out

In his first novel, <i>City of Night</i>, John Rechy achieved what most authors strive for their entire career. A book that will last ... Although it was long after the original publication, through <i>City of Night</i> Rechy taught me that my feelings of isolation could be released, that my experiences could be written. It was Rechy who showed me that no subject matter is taboo. -- Charles Casillo - LA Review of Books

Probably no first novel is so complete, so well held together, and so important as <i>City of Night</i>. - The Houston Post

The taboo-busting 1960s classic that gave voice to a hidden subculture