Edgar Lawrence Doctorow (b. 1931) is an American writer, winner of several literary awards. The novel "Billy Bathgate" is one of Doctorow's most striking works. America during the Prohibition era... Trucks carrying illegal whiskey to underground warehouses rush through the unlit streets. Nightclubs are full of life, the illusory availability of all earthly goods forces people to do any kind of madness. The Dutch Schultz gang keeps law-abiding citizens and the most inveterate bandits in fear - rumors of its cruelty fly from the pages of the tabloid press every day. Young Billy Bathgate, a boy from the city slums, dreams of becoming a member of this gang. In his sweetest dreams, he sees himself surrounded by gorgeous gangsters and fatal beauties. Will the realization of his dream be just as sweet?