Return of the Links

And first, it seems appropriate to begin with reflections on Dashiell Hammett, considering this year — and this month — marks the 75th anniversary of the publication of THE MALTESE FALCON. The SF Chronicle was all over this on Sunday, as Peter Spiegelman paid tribute to Hammett as writer, Eddie Muller looks at Hammett’s influence in the world of film, and Jesse Hamlin provides a well-rounded biographical sketch of the man.

When did the New York Times get so Orthodox-minded of late? After the Wendy Shalit essay, now Dinitia Smith interviews Pearl Abraham, a novelist who grew up Chasidic and broke away, but still explores her background in books like THE SEVENTH BEGGAR. Which, of course, I’ll have to hunt down and read…

Speaking of the NYT, they featured a very lengthy interview with HarperCollins CEO Jane Friedman about “branding” the company. I’d have had lots to say but Galleycat kinda beat me to it.

The SF Chronicle’s David Kipen wonders if the newfangled Quill Awards are more flash than substance. I don’t really blame him but then again, if I can see smackdowns on the red carpet I will be so, so happy….

The Christian Science Monitor polled a slew of writers, including Steve Almond, Dan Chaon and Dave King, about their favorite romantic novels just in time for Valentine’s Day.

The BBC’s brand new program Page Turners, specifically designed to compete with Richard & Judy, has announced its shortlist of 24 books to be discussed over the course of the year. Interesting list, and I’m pleased to see the likes of Ian Rankin, Liz Jensen (you mean you haven’t read THE NINTH LIFE OF LOUIS DRAX yet? Why not?) and Lionel Shriver included.

Karen Zailckas is getting a whole lot of attention for her memoir SMASHED about her teenage days ‘o drinking. The latest on the bandwagon is the Boston Globe’s David Mehegan, who interviews Zailckas at length.

A lost Hemingway novel? Sure seems that way, as the unabridged version of UNDER KILIMANJARO is set to be published by Kent State University Press.

The Freep’s Ron Bernas enjoyed two recent historical crime novels by Louise Welsh and Charles Todd.

And finally, I’m a bit confused. I thought A&E was the Crime & Investigation network….