3 OCTOBER 1958, Page 42

It's a Crime

The Gigantic Shadow. By Julian Symons. (Collins, 10s. 6d.) Minor work from a master. Mr. Symons can sketch in the contemporary London scene—telefolks, dance halls, Pimlico pubs—like a George Augustus Sala de nos lours, but this tale of drugs, blackmail and kidnapping is a little far-fetched for the near-documentary background.