Top 24 best on old hollywood books

1. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

What is this book about?

"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" follows the captivating tale of aging Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo, who, after decades of secrecy, chooses an unknown magazine reporter, Monique Grant, to write her biography. As Evelyn recounts her extraordinary life story, from her humble beginnings to her meteoric rise to fame, she reveals the truth behind her seven marriages, her scandalous love affairs, and the sacrifices she made for success in a cutthroat industry. As Monique pieces together Evelyn's past, she uncovers shocking secrets and a hidden connection to the legendary actress, unraveling a mesmerizing story of ambition, love, betrayal, and the price of fame.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of historical fiction
• Readers who love Hollywood glamour
• Anyone looking for a captivating page-turner
• People who enjoy stories about strong female characters

Awards

• Goodreads Choice Award
• Book of the Month Book of the Year Award

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2. City of Nets: A Portrait of Hollywood in the 1940s by Otto Friedrich

What is this book about?

Otto Friedrich's "City of Nets: A Portrait of Hollywood in the 1940s" delves into the paradoxical world of Hollywood during its Golden Age. It paints a vivid tapestry of the era, showcasing the dazzling glamour and immense wealth intertwined with the industry's ruthless ambition, pervasive fear, and moral compromises. Friedrich masterfully interweaves the stories of iconic stars like Chaplin, Orson Welles, and Marilyn Monroe with those of studio moguls, blacklisted writers, and aspiring starlets, revealing a complex ecosystem driven by talent, ambition, and often, sheer luck. Through these intertwined narratives, he exposes the hidden machinations of the studio system, the political anxieties of the McCarthy era, and the ever-present tension between artistic integrity and commercial success, ultimately capturing the allure and darkness that defined Hollywood's golden decade.

Who should read this book?

Film buffs, history enthusiasts, anyone curious about Hollywood's Golden Age.

3. Clara Bow: Runnin' Wild by David Stenn

What is this book about?

David Stenn's "Clara Bow: Runnin' Wild" dives deep into the tumultuous life and career of the original "It Girl," Clara Bow. Far from a typical celebrity biography, the book paints an intimate portrait of a complex woman navigating the exploitative world of early Hollywood. It chronicles her meteoric rise from poverty to superstardom, fueled by her undeniable charisma and captivating screen presence. Yet, Stenn doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of Bow's journey, revealing the scandals, heartbreak, and mental health struggles she endured amidst the relentless pressures of fame. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Stenn reclaims the narrative surrounding this iconic actress, presenting a nuanced perspective on her life beyond the sensationalized headlines and revealing the human cost of stardom in Hollywood's golden age.

Who should read this book?

• Silent film fans
• Classic Hollywood enthusiasts
• History buffs
• Biography lovers
• Those interested in women's studies

4. My Autobiography by Charlie Chaplin

Contributor: David Robinson(Introduction)

What is this book about?

David Robinson's "Chaplin: His Life and Art" delves deeply into the legendary entertainer's life, from his impoverished London childhood to his meteoric rise to fame and subsequent exile from the United States. Robinson meticulously charts Chaplin's evolution as a performer, from his early days in vaudeville to the creation of his iconic Tramp character and his groundbreaking work in silent film. The book explores his creative process, examining the technical innovations and artistic vision behind classics like "The Kid" and "Modern Times." Beyond the silver screen, Robinson illuminates Chaplin's personal life, including his turbulent relationships, political controversies, and enduring legacy as a cinematic pioneer.

Who should read this book?

• Film lovers
• Aspiring actors and directors
• History buffs
• Fans of Charlie Chaplin
• Anyone interested in the early days of Hollywood

5. Me: Stories of My Life by Katharine Hepburn

What is this book about?

Katharine Hepburn's "Me: Stories of My Life" is a captivating and candid self-portrait of the legendary actress, told entirely in her own distinctive voice. Spanning her remarkable life and career, Hepburn shares intimate anecdotes and reflections on her childhood, her unconventional family, and her rise to stardom in Hollywood. With her trademark wit and intelligence, she opens up about her professional triumphs and personal heartbreaks, her love affairs with Spencer Tracy and others, and her fierce independence in a male-dominated industry. Throughout the memoir, Hepburn's strong personality shines through, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a true Hollywood icon.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of classic Hollywood
• Aspiring actors
• Anyone who enjoys memoirs
• People interested in strong women in history

6. The Star Machine by Jeanine Basinger

What is this book about?

"The Star Machine" by Jeanine Basinger delves into the fascinating history of the Hollywood studio system, specifically focusing on the period from the 1930s to the 1960s. Basinger meticulously examines how studios like MGM, Paramount, and Warner Bros. meticulously crafted and controlled the images of their stars, turning them into larger-than-life icons. Through captivating anecdotes and insightful analysis, the book reveals the intricate workings of this system, from talent scouting and rigorous training programs to publicity stunts and the enforcement of moral clauses.

Who should read this book?

• Film buffs
• History enthusiasts
• Aspiring actors
• Pop culture fanatics

7. Hollywood Babylon by Kenneth Anger

What is this book about?

"Hollywood Babylon" by Kenneth Anger is a sensationalized and controversial exposé that peels back the glamorous facade of Hollywood to reveal a dark underbelly of scandal, vice, and tragedy. Anger recounts shocking and often unsubstantiated tales of the secret lives of Hollywood stars from the silent era to the 1950s, including their alleged affairs, addictions, criminal activities, and untimely deaths. The book is a lurid and gossipy glimpse into the underbelly of Hollywood, fueled by hearsay, speculation, and a fascination with the darker side of fame.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of Hollywood scandals
• Readers interested in classic Hollywood history (with a grain of salt!)
• People who enjoy controversial books

8. The Big Goodbye: Chinatown and the Last Years of Hollywood by Sam Wasson

What is this book about?

"The Big Goodbye" by Sam Wasson delves into the making of the neo-noir masterpiece "Chinatown" (1974), using it as a lens through which to examine the seismic shifts occurring in Hollywood during the early 1970s. Wasson vividly portrays the clash between the fading old guard, represented by director Roman Polanski and producer Robert Evans, and the emerging generation of filmmakers like Jack Nicholson and screenwriter Robert Towne. Through their struggles to bring "Chinatown" to the screen, Wasson captures the end of an era in Hollywood, marked by artistic ambition, personal excesses, and the demise of the studio system.

Who should read this book?

• Film lovers
• History buffs
• Fans of classic Hollywood
• Those interested in Asian American studies
• Noir enthusiasts

9. The Kid Stays in the Picture by Robert Evans

What is this book about?

'The Kid Stays in the Picture' is a whirlwind autobiography of Robert Evans, a charismatic and audacious Hollywood legend. It chronicles his improbable rise from clothing manufacturer to head of production at Paramount Pictures, where he revived the studio with iconic films like "The Godfather," "Chinatown," and "Rosemary's Baby." Evans recounts his experiences with unflinching honesty, detailing his tumultuous personal life, brushes with the mob, and the highs and lows of Hollywood's golden age.

Who should read this book?

• Film buffs
• Aspiring producers
• Hollywood history enthusiasts
• Anyone who enjoys a good memoir

Awards

• Grammy Award

10. A Life in Movies: Stories from 50 years in Hollywood by Irwin Winkler

What is this book about?

Irwin Winkler's "A Life in Movies" takes readers on an intimate journey through five decades of Hollywood history. From his humble beginnings as a struggling young man in New York to becoming a celebrated producer and director, Winkler shares captivating anecdotes about his collaborations with iconic figures like Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese, and Sylvester Stallone. He candidly recounts the triumphs and challenges of bringing legendary films like "Rocky," "Goodfellas," and "Raging Bull" to life, offering insights into the creative process, the complexities of the film industry, and the evolution of storytelling in cinema.

Who should read this book?

• Film lovers
• Aspiring filmmakers
• Fans of classic cinema
• Anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of Hollywood

11. The Genius of the System: Hollywood Filmmaking in the Studio Era by Thomas Schatz

Contributor: Steven Bach(Preface by)

What is this book about?

"The Genius of the System" delves into the inner workings of Hollywood during its Golden Age, exploring the studio system that dominated filmmaking from the 1920s to the 1950s. Rather than focusing on individual auteurs, the book examines the collaborative efforts and standardized practices that churned out a staggering number of films. It dissects the hierarchical structure of studios, the roles of producers, writers, directors, and stars, and the influence of genre conventions and audience expectations. By analyzing this system, the book illuminates how Hollywood achieved both artistic innovation and commercial success during this influential era.

Who should read this book?

• Film students
• Film historians
• Classic movie buffs
• Anyone interested in the business of Hollywood

12. Pictures at a Revolution: Five Movies and the Birth of the New Hollywood by Mark Harris

What is this book about?

"Pictures at a Revolution" chronicles a pivotal period in American cinema – the late 1960s – through the lens of five iconic films: "Bonnie and Clyde," "The Graduate," "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," "In the Heat of the Night," and "Dr. Strangelove." Mark Harris masterfully weaves together the stories behind these productions, showcasing how a confluence of cultural shifts, risk-taking filmmakers, and changing audience tastes led to the demise of the old Hollywood studio system and the birth of a new era marked by bold storytelling, challenging themes, and auteur directors.

Who should read this book?

• Film fans
• History buffs
• Students of cinema
• Anyone who loves the movies of the late 1960s

13. The Big Picture: The Fight for the Future of Movies by Ben Fritz

What is this book about?

"The Big Picture" delves into the turbulent and rapidly evolving landscape of the modern film industry. Ben Fritz, drawing on his access as a veteran entertainment reporter, provides an insider's look at the seismic shifts brought about by streaming giants like Netflix, the rise of superhero franchises, and the ongoing struggle between artistic integrity and commercial viability. Through in-depth reporting and interviews with key players – from powerful executives to struggling filmmakers – the book examines the challenges and opportunities facing Hollywood as it grapples with a future where the way movies are made, marketed, and consumed is undergoing a fundamental transformation.

Who should read this book?

• Film buffs
• Filmmakers
• Film students
• Entertainment industry professionals
• Anyone interested in the business of Hollywood

14. Hollywood's Eve: Eve Babitz and the Secret History of L.A. by Lili Anolik

What is this book about?

Lili Anolik's "Hollywood's Eve" delves into the life and persona of Eve Babitz, a writer deeply intertwined with 1960s and 70s Los Angeles. Through Babitz's own writing and personal experiences, the book paints a vivid portrait of a bygone era in Hollywood, exploring its glamour, excesses, and complexities. Anolik positions Babitz as a crucial, though often overlooked, figure who chronicled and embodied the cultural shifts of her time, offering a unique and insightful perspective on art, fame, and Los Angeles itself.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of Eve Babitz
• Los Angeles enthusiasts
• Cultural history buffs
• Readers interested in the 1960s-70s art and literary scene
• Anyone who enjoys biographies with a unique perspective

15. The Hollywood Book Club by Steven Rea

What is this book about?

"The Hollywood Book Club: Reading With the Stars" by Steven Rea delves into the fascinating intersection of classic literature and Hollywood through the lens of film adaptations. The book explores a diverse range of movies, from silent films to modern blockbusters, each inspired by a particular novel or play. Rea meticulously examines how filmmakers translate beloved stories to the silver screen, analyzing the choices made in casting, scriptwriting, and directing, and ultimately evaluating their success in capturing the essence of the original works. Featuring insightful commentary and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, the book offers a captivating exploration of the challenges and triumphs of adapting literary masterpieces for a cinematic audience.

Who should read this book?

• Movie buffs
• Bookworms
• Fans of classic literature
• People interested in film adaptations
• Anyone curious about Hollywood history

16. The Devil's Candy: The Bonfire of the Vanities Goes to Hollywood by Julie Salamon

What is this book about?

"The Devil's Candy: The Bonfire of the Vanities Goes to Hollywood" by Julie Salamon chronicles the tumultuous journey of the film adaptation of Tom Wolfe's acclaimed novel, "The Bonfire of the Vanities." Salamon provides an insider's account of the chaotic production, marked by creative clashes, casting controversies, and escalating budgets. The book delves into the behind-the-scenes drama, exposing the egos, ambitions, and power struggles that plagued the film from its inception. With sharp prose and unflinching honesty, Salamon reveals how a highly anticipated project, fueled by literary prestige and Hollywood ambition, spiraled into a critical and commercial disappointment, ultimately serving as a cautionary tale about the perils of adapting complex narratives for the big screen.

Who should read this book?

• Film lovers
• Hollywood hopefuls
• Anyone fascinated by trainwreck productions
• Fans of The Bonfire of the Vanities
• Aspiring writers and directors

17. The Studio by John Gregory Dunne

What is this book about?

"The Studio" dissects the inner workings of Hollywood during a tumultuous period at a fictionalized version of 20th Century Fox, thinly veiled as "Century Pictures." Through the lens of various characters – executives battling for power, a fading movie star clinging to relevance, a talented but insecure screenwriter, and a ruthless producer – Dunne paints a scathing portrait of an industry fueled by ego, ambition, and the constant struggle for success. As their personal and professional lives intertwine, the novel exposes the machinery behind the movies, where art and commerce collide in a spectacle of ambition, betrayal, and fleeting glory.

Who should read this book?

• Film fans
• Hollywood history buffs
• Aspiring writers
• People interested in the craft of filmmaking

18. The Day of the Locust by Nathanael West

What is this book about?

"The Day of the Locust" delves into the disillusionment and despair of 1930s Hollywood, following Tod Hackett, a young artist who becomes caught in a whirlwind of eccentric and desperate characters. As Tod navigates the fringes of the film industry, he encounters grotesquely ambitious starlets, fading actors, and a violent mob all seeking fulfillment and escape. West paints a searing portrait of Hollywood as a breeding ground for shattered dreams, culminating in a chaotic riot at a movie premiere that exposes the dark underbelly of the American Dream.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of dark satire
• People interested in Hollywood's underbelly
• Readers who enjoy literary fiction
• Those intrigued by the American Dream's darker side

19. Hollywood: A Third Memoir by Larry McMurtry

What is this book about?

In "Hollywood: A Third Memoir" Larry McMurtry offers a candid and often humorous account of his decades-long career in the film industry. He reflects on his experiences writing screenplays, collaborating with renowned directors and actors, and navigating the complexities of Hollywood's social circles and power dynamics. McMurtry shares anecdotes about iconic films like "The Last Picture Show," "Terms of Endearment," and "Brokeback Mountain," providing insights into their development and the challenges of adapting literary works for the screen. Throughout his memoir, he offers a wry and insightful commentary on the allure and pitfalls of Hollywood, painting a vivid portrait of a bygone era in filmmaking.

Who should read this book?

• Aspiring screenwriters
• Film buffs
• Larry McMurtry fans
• Readers interested in Hollywood history

20. The Moon's a Balloon by David Niven

What is this book about?

"The Moon's a Balloon" is David Niven's captivating autobiography, chronicling his extraordinary life and career from his mischievous youth to his rise as a beloved Hollywood icon. Niven recounts his early adventures, including his expulsion from Eton and a stint in the British Army, before charmingly narrating his unlikely entry into Hollywood and subsequent rise to stardom. With wit and candor, he shares anecdotes from his experiences rubbing shoulders with legendary figures like Errol Flynn, Winston Churchill, and Marilyn Monroe, offering a glimpse into the golden age of Hollywood and its captivating characters. Through it all, Niven's irrepressible charm and zest for life shine through, making "The Moon's a Balloon" an entertaining and heartwarming read.

Who should read this book?

• Classic Hollywood enthusiasts
• Readers who enjoy memoirs
• Fans of David Niven
• History buffs interested in the 20th century

21. The Ragman's Son: An Autobiography by Kirk Douglas

What is this book about?

"The Ragman's Son" is Kirk Douglas's powerful autobiography, chronicling his inspiring journey from impoverished immigrant to Hollywood legend. Douglas recounts his humble beginnings in New York, where he grew up in poverty as the son of illiterate Russian-Jewish immigrants. He details his relentless drive to escape poverty through education and his early struggles to establish himself as an actor. With raw honesty, he delves into the highs and lows of his illustrious film career, reflecting on his iconic roles, his outspoken personality, and his commitment to social justice. "The Ragman's Son" is a testament to Douglas's resilience, ambition, and enduring passion for storytelling, offering an intimate glimpse into the life of a Hollywood titan and the transformative power of the American dream.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of Kirk Douglas's films
• Aspiring actors
• Readers interested in Hollywood's Golden Age
• Those who enjoy inspirational stories

22. The Big Picture: Money and Power in Hollywood by Edward Jay Epstein

What is this book about?

"The Big Picture: Money and Power in Hollywood" delves into the intricate workings of the film industry, revealing the complex financial and power structures that shape blockbuster production and distribution. Edward Jay Epstein goes beyond the glitz and glamour to expose the often-hidden mechanisms that drive decision-making in Hollywood, analyzing how studios, talent agencies, and financial institutions wield their influence. He explores the evolution of the studio system, the impact of technological advancements on filmmaking, and the globalization of the entertainment industry. Through meticulous research and insider perspectives, Epstein provides a critical and insightful examination of the economic forces that shape what movies get made, how they are marketed, and ultimately, who profits from Hollywood's success.

Who should read this book?

• Aspiring filmmakers
• Film students
• Entertainment industry hopefuls
• Anyone curious about how Hollywood really works

23. The Parade's Gone By... by Kevin Brownlow

What is this book about?

"The Parade's Gone By..." is a sweeping and nostalgic journey through the golden age of Hollywood, told through the eyes and experiences of the industry's biggest stars, directors, writers, and crew members. Film historian Kevin Brownlow meticulously weaves together interviews and anecdotes from over 150 film legends, offering a captivating and intimate portrait of a bygone era in filmmaking. From the early pioneers of silent films to the iconic figures of the studio system's heyday, Brownlow captures the magic, the innovation, and the sheer hard work that went into creating some of cinema's most beloved classics. "The Parade's Gone By..." is a treasure trove of Hollywood history, offering readers an invaluable glimpse into the lives and work of the visionaries who shaped the art form we know and love today.

Who should read this book?

• Silent film enthusiasts
• Classic movie lovers
• Film history buffs
• Aspiring filmmakers

24. The Speed of Sound: Hollywood and the Talkie Revolution 1926-1930 by Scott Eyman

What is this book about?

"The Speed of Sound: Hollywood and the Talkie Revolution 1926-1930" dives headfirst into the tumultuous period when synchronized sound swept through the film industry, forever altering the course of cinema history. Scott Eyman vividly captures the excitement, confusion, and seismic shifts that occurred as Hollywood grappled with the transition from silent films to "talkies." The book chronicles the technical challenges, artistic innovations, and career upheavals that arose as studios, stars, and audiences navigated this pivotal moment. Through engaging anecdotes and insightful analysis, Eyman paints a vivid portrait of a transformative era, highlighting the triumphs and tragedies of those who embraced or resisted the dawn of talking pictures.

Who should read this book?

• Film history enthusiasts
• Silent film fans
• Students of early cinema
• Anyone interested in technological change in the arts