Outlaw: The Lives and Careers of John Rechy

I read this book voraciosuly - a comprehensive, fascinating study which sheds a lot of light on one of the most mysterious most interesting characters in the history of American fiction!! I enjoyed this book so much I carry it with me and pull it out on the train to read it at whim! A GREAT READ!

A thoughtful, serious examination of the life and career(s) of the enigmatic John Rechy, written in a straightforward yet entertaining style by Charles Casillo. If you know who Rechy is already, this will give you "backstory" - if you don't know who Rechy is, this will give you a great introduction and overview of a major figure in gay literature (and Hollywood history).I have to disagree with previous commentator who thought Rechy and Casillo looked alike. But I do agree that both are "well-packaged", which doesn't hurt when imagining a husky-voiced Casillo reading his work aloud to you over your pillow.....Can't wait for the movie!

A highly compelling story, told by a refreshingly candid author. Mr Casillo's dramatic and insightful probe into the various persona created and projected by Rechy, results in a fascinating and complex kaleidoscope of character traits. Unravelling each layer and facade of the infamous writer and hustler, must surely have been a daunting task - but the reader is skillfully navigated through Rechy's checkered life by the empathetic and compassionate writer - who manages to maintain a balanced objectivity throughout the biography.I highly recommend this book which will appeal to a wide audience of readers.

"Outlaw" is an extremely well written biography. It focuses equally on Rechy's private life as a street hustler and his amazing career as a writer. The book also documents the changing atmosphere in homosexual culture from the 1950s to the present. Considering Rechy's life as a male prostitute In New York on Times Square and in Los Angeles, Casillo does not take a sensationalistic approach to reviewing his life. Instead he takes a serious, intelligent approach--studying Rechy's development from tortured childhood, to conflicted young man, to literary lion. It really is very fascinating reading. I recommend it.

It's been a long time since I've read a life story so fascinating told in such a compelling way. Rechy's life is filled with drama, comedy and sex (which I love!) Casillo does a beautiful job and tells the story with such compassion and passion--I truly couldn't put this book down.