William Hogan (author)
William Hogan (born c. 1900, died 1969) was a prominent American book reviewer and literary critic, primarily associated with the San Francisco Chronicle. For over 30 years, from the late 1930s until his death, he served as the book editor of the Chronicle, wielding considerable influence over the literary landscape of the West Coast.
Hogan's column, titled "A Bookman's Notebook," provided a daily assessment of new publications, offering concise reviews, author interviews, and literary news. His reviews were known for their accessibility and straightforward style, appealing to a broad readership. He championed both established authors and emerging talents, providing crucial early exposure to many writers.
While not a novelist or poet himself, Hogan was instrumental in shaping literary tastes and fostering a vibrant literary community in the San Francisco Bay Area. He was a respected figure among authors, publishers, and fellow critics, and his work helped to solidify the San Francisco Chronicle's reputation as a significant voice in literary journalism. He was married to the author and journalist Frances Armsby Hogan.
Following his death in 1969, his wife, Frances Hogan, continued to write the column for a short period.