Literary daybook, Dec. 11

Off to see the Izzard

Breaking up is hard to do

A real stiff

Letters

It's OK -- she's a public figure

"Caramelo" by Sandra Cisneros

Letters

"Emma's War" by Deborah Scroggins

The Salon Interview: Bill Maher

Bestsellers

Carter warns of "uncontrollable violence"

White House economic policy: Confusion

Queen of hearts

The week in dirt