John O'Hara's Hollywood Book

As many are probably aware, John O'Hara was an incredibly prolific short story author from late-1920s up until his death in 1970. Nearly 250 of O'Hara's short stories were published in The New Yorker magazine, making him their most published author, by far. O'Hara's short-story collections were focused on the fictional eastern-Pennsylvania town of Gibbsville, New York City, and then Hollywood, California. Currently, there are published collections of O'Hara's short stories in all three locales, two of which (Hollywood and New York City) are available in Kindle editions.

This review focuses on the collection of short stories that are all associated with Hollywood, the studios, film lots, bedrooms, and the men and women involved in the 'industry.' There were several stories that were truly standouts in this collection in my opinion, including: The Way to Majorca, Malibu from the Sky, Everything Satisfactory, In a Grove (freaky and violent!), Yucca Knolls, and Natica Jackson. What they all share is O'Hara's mastery of taut dialog among characters. As you read one of his stories it is as though you are utterly transported and set down in the room with the characters and listening to the conversation first hand.

These stories very effectively resonate with the film noirish atmosphere of the Los Angeles and Hollywood that I've come to associate and appreciate from writers like Dashiell Hammett and now even James Ellroy. Good stuff, folks, and well worth searching out for a read! Solid 4 of five stars for me.