City of Night is an explosive first novel by John Rechy, originally published in 1963. It boldly introduces a new era of gay fiction, with an inventive narrative that delves into the urban underworld of male prostitution.

The story follows a hustling "Youngman" on a restless search for self-knowledge, as he navigates through the neon-lit life on the edge. From El Paso to Times Square, Pershing Square to the French Quarter, the narrator's journey offers an unforgettable look at a life lived on the fringe.

Rechy's portrayal of the world of hustlers, drag queens, and their denizens is unflinching and deeply personal. His prose is characterized by a rare and beautiful recklessness, capturing the essence of a time and place with candor and understanding.