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50 pages 1 hour read

The Maltese Falcon

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1930

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Book Brief

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Dashiell Hammett

The Maltese Falcon

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1930
Book Details
Pages

213

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco • 1930s

Publication Year

1930

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

760L

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Super Short Summary

The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett follows private detective Sam Spade as he investigates the murder of his partner, Miles Archer, while becoming entangled in a web of lies, deceit, and double-crossing centered around a mysterious and allegedly valuable falcon statuette. The novel includes instances of violence, murder, and biased depictions of various groups.

Mysterious

Gritty

Suspenseful

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.1

115,289 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon is broadly celebrated for its intricate plot and sharp dialogue, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the noir genre. Critics praise its compelling protagonist, Sam Spade, and the atmospheric depiction of 1920s San Francisco. However, some find the reliance on stereotypes dated and the narrative’s complexity occasionally overwhelming.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Maltese Falcon?

A reader who would enjoy The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett appreciates hard-boiled detective fiction, intricate plot twists, and morally complex characters. Fans of Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep or Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series may also find this novel compelling for its gritty atmosphere and sharp dialogue.

4.1

115,289 ratings

68%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Samuel Spade

A private detective recognized for his stoicism, pragmatism, and lack of allegiance to typical moral codes, he navigates a world of deception and manipulation in the pursuit of truth.

A mysterious and alluring woman who uses her charm and cunning to achieve her goals, often presenting herself under different identities to maintain the upper hand.

A well-dressed and perfumed man with shifting loyalties, his effeminate mannerisms contrast sharply with Spade's ruggedness, and he plays a key role in the search for the falcon.

An erudite but greedy individual whose imposing presence and interest in the falcon introduce layers of conspiracy and betrayal.

Spade’s dependable and supportive secretary, who tirelessly assists him and serves as a stabilizing force in his unpredictable world.

A young, undersized gunman working for Gutman, whose presence adds to the intrigue and danger surrounding the hunt for the falcon.

Book Details
Pages

213

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco • 1930s

Publication Year

1930

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

760L

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