Hard Rain Falling

by Don Carpenter · 1966

Hard Rain Falling is a hardboiled novel that follows the life of Jack Levitt, an orphaned teenager navigating the American underground from the pool halls of Portland to the cells of San Quentin. The story tracks Jack's journey through crime, punishment, and his complex relationship with Billy Lancing, a fellow runaway and pool hustler. As their lives diverge—with Billy entering the middle class and Jack facing the harsh realities of the justice system—the narrative explores themes of redemption, abuse, and the struggle to escape one's past.