[pconner]

Late reply from me, but:

1. Introduction to Algorithms/CLRS (~The~ algorithms book) https://mitpress.mit.edu/books/introduction-algorithms

Also, Skiena's "Algorithm Design Manual" for something a bit lighter.

2. I chose to use Python when possible for technical interviews, as it allowed me to focus more on the algorithms/solution, rather than boilerplate. I rarely use Python in my actual job, but I still prefer it for interviews.