Welcome to the Big Read, a major initiative from the National Endowment for the Arts, designed to revitalize the role of literary reading in American culture. The Big Read hopes to unite communities through great literature as well as inspire students to become lifelong readers.
The Maltese Falcon is a detective novel - one of the best ever written. It's also a brilliant literary work, as well as a thriller, a love story, and a dark, dry comedy. Hammett's private-eye classic is so much fun to read, it might be hard to realize how deeply observed and morally serious it is.
A great book combines enlightenment with enchantment. It awakens our imagination and enlarges our humanity. It can even offer harrowing insights that somehow console and comfort us. Whether you're a regular reader already or making up for lost time, thank you for joining The Big Read.
Dashiell Hammett's the Maltese Falcon Reader's Guide, NEA.
Howell and the Big Read: Our community is presented with an exceptional opportunity! We are one of 250+ libraries and museums nationwide participating in The Big Read, 2009-2010. This program from the National Endowment for The Arts (NEA) is designed to create a nation of readers by inspiring people to pick up not just any good book, but outstanding literature. In addition to the NEA, we are partnering with local businesses, schools, groups and individuals to bring this initiative to you! Grab a copy of the Maltese Falcon from the library, your school, or a local bookstore and then join us for some of the many programs being held both here and in the community. Soak up a little atmosphere at our Speakeasy Night. Watch the movie. Join one of the many book discussion groups being held all over town. Check out real Birds of Prey. We have activities for all ages!
The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment