Edward SCHWARZSCHILD ... The Family Diamond (2007)

REMEMBER Edward Schwarzschild’s first novel, Responsible Men (Algonquin, 2005) His second book, The Family Diamond (Algonquin, 2007) has just been published this week.

The Family Diamond is a collection of linked short stories about family, loss and love, all set in Philadelphia, and it’s already been getting some great early press.

Library Journal: “The trials and tribulations of relationships are at the heart of this collection of nine tales of modern life; sparkling with wit, compassion, and sometimes whimsy, the vivid characters will not be quickly forgotten. ... Schwarzschild has a hit with his second work; the writing is polished, well paced, and exceptional. Heartily recommended.”

Philadelphia Magazine: “In this book of semi-related short stories about family relationships ... the author’s sincerity and strong characters combine for an enjoyable read. ... What really makes it a Philadelphia book is its pride in the ties that bind us, epitomized by the Mark Twain epigraph: ‘In Boston they ask, how much does he know? In New York, how much is he worth? In Philadelphia, who were his parents?’”