Subject
Hollywood (Los Angeles, Calif.) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Upton Sinclair
They Call Me Carpenter: A Tale of the Second Coming
"They Call Me Carpenter: A Tale of the Second Coming" by Upton Sinclair is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows a character who finds himself drawn into an unexpected adventure after watching a controversial German film titled "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" in a post-World War I American city. Themes of artistic expression, societal unrest, and philosophical debates regarding morality and the nature of humanity appear to be central to the story, with significant interactions involving characters like Dr. Karl Henner, a German literary critic. The opening of the novel introduces the protagonist who, alongside Dr. Henner, faces a mob outside a theater protesting the showing of a German film they deem to be "Hun propaganda." Through their dialogue, the protagonist grapples with his identity as a war veteran in a society still entangled in the trauma of conflict. The situation escalates, leading to a physical altercation as the protagonist defends his right to see the film, ultimately taking refuge in a church. There, he experiences a spiritual encounter with a figure resembling Christ, who appears to offer him comfort and profound insights about violence, society, and the human condition. This introduction sets the stage for a blend of political commentary and personal awakening as Sinclair explores the complexities of morality and societal values in the wake of war.
Harry Leon Wilson
Merton of the Movies
"Merton of the Movies" by Harry Leon Wilson is a comic novel published in 1922. Small-town dreamer Merton Gill abandons his simple life to pursue stardom in Hollywood's silent film industry. Armed with a correspondence course in acting, he arrives in the glamorous world of cinema only to find his idols less perfect than imagined. With help from stuntwoman Flips Montague, Merton finally gets his chance—but his earnest, dramatic performances produce hilariously unexpected results that transform his career in ways he never anticipated.
Edgar Rice Burroughs
The girl from Hollywood
"The Girl From Hollywood" by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around characters from the American West, particularly focusing on Grace Evans and Custer Pennington as they navigate personal aspirations against the backdrop of ranch life and the allure of Hollywood. As Grace yearns for a life in acting, tensions arise about their future and the influences that threaten their idyllic existence. The opening of the novel introduces Grace and Custer as they ride through the picturesque California hills, showcasing their camaraderie and burgeoning romance. The narrative delves into their differing aspirations, with Grace feeling a strong pull toward the stage, while Custer is more grounded in his commitment to the family ranch. Tensions are palpable as conversations hint at past alcohol use and potential issues with other characters, such as the dubious Slick Allen. The distinct setting and the characters’ interactions set the stage for a deeper exploration of ambition, love, and the trials they face as Grace's dreams push against the life Custer desires to maintain.
Edgar Rice Burroughs
Hollywoodin tyttö
"Hollywoodin tyttö" by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a contemporary fiction novel published in 1922-1923. The story follows two parallel worlds: the wholesome Pennington family on their California ranch and a struggling Hollywood actress trapped in a web of drugs and exploitation. When Shannon Burke seeks refuge at the ranch, she finds hope for redemption. But danger follows her, entangling the family in bootlegging, murder, and Hollywood's darkest secrets, leading to a devastating trial that threatens an innocent man's life.
Walter J. Sheldon
Jimsy and the Monsters
"Jimsy and the Monsters" by Walter J. Sheldon is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story explores the intersections of childhood stardom and the fantastical, as an eleven-year-old child actor, Jimsy LaRoche, becomes entangled with real extraterrestrial creatures brought to Hollywood during a film production. The narrative captures the absurdities of movie-making, highlighting the chaos that ensues when fictional monsters turn into real threats. The plot centers around Mr. Maximilian Untz, a beleaguered producer, and his quest for authentic terror in a film's dream sequence. When Dr. John Mildume, a quirky scientist, introduces two alien creatures, Untz hopes they will elevate his film but instead they cause mayhem on set. Jimsy, known for his mischievousness, inadvertently proves to be the key to managing the monsters, as they turn out to be terrified of him. This humorous and absurd tale critiques the entertainment industry while weaving a whimsical and engaging story about courage, responsibility, and the often comedic nature of Hollywood.
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