One of the greatest achievements of modern literature. -Richard Howard A major achievement . . . . Genet transforms experiences of degradation into spiritual exercises and hoodlums into bearers of the majesty of love. -Saturday Review This book recreates for the reader Genet s magic world one of dazzling beauty charged with novelty and excitement. -Bettina Knapp Genet would have deserved international standing for this novel alone. . . . He succeeds to an amazing degree in creating poetry from the profoundest degradation. -The Times (London)