The World at Night

For a night sky photography project, see The World At Night.

The World at Night

First edition
Author	Alan Furst
Language	English
Genre	War, historical, spy
Publisher	Random House
Publication date	1996
Publication place	United States
Media type	Print (paperback)
ISBN	0-375-75858-5
OCLC	48045604
Dewey Decimal	813/.54 21
LC Class	PS3556.U76 W67 2002
Followed by	Red Gold

The World at Night (1996) is a novel by Alan Furst.

Plot summary

The story takes place in and around Paris between May 1940 and June 1941. Jean Casson is a French motion-picture producer who specializes in gangster films and who possesses no political views to speak of. When the Germans defeat and conquer his country, Casson at first tries to continue his life and career as if nothing had happened. But that proves impossible; when the Germans arrest a few of his friends and associates Casson finds himself helping others to hide or escape. He is seen talking to questionable people, and before long his line is tapped and his movements followed. Eventually Casson must choose between a life of resistance or no life at all.

Critical reception

Kirkus Reviews wrote: “At times, the author seems more concerned with atmosphere than action, but fans will recognize his gift for making every gesture an expression of character and allow him to get away with it. The payoff is worth the wait. Furst has somehow discovered the perfect venue for uniting the European literary tragedy with the Anglo-American spy thriller. Nobody does it better.”