NY Times article on Google search optimization

The Dirty Little Secrets of Search, by David Segal (Feb. 12, 2011)
"...the Google search, often represents layer upon layer of intrigue. And the intrigue starts in the sprawling, subterranean world of “black hat” optimization, the dark art of raising the profile of a Web site with methods that Google considers tantamount to cheating."

Tips on using Google

A good source of information on using Google effectively is the blog Google Operating System.
Recent posts include a change in the Google phrase search and more customization to Google News.