Books matching: entertainment industry
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Michael Parenti's book 'Make-Believe Media: The Politics of Entertainment' delves into the intricate relationship between the entertainment industry and political propaganda. Parenti exposes how the media shapes our perceptions, influences our behaviors, and perpetuates societal norms through movies and television shows. He discusses the manipulation of facts, the impact of media on our daily lives, and the hidden agendas behind the seemingly democratic entertainment marketplace.
Through a critical lens, Parenti analyzes the portrayal of different ethnic groups, the role of prominent personalities in shaping ideological images, and the censorship and profit-driven decisions that govern the content we consume. He challenges the notion of entertainment as a passive pastime, highlighting the deliberate efforts to control public opinion and limit real choice in the media landscape.
Make-believe. The term connotes the playful fantasies of our childhood, a pleasant way of pretending. But in the world created by movies and television, make-believe takes on a more serious meaning. I...November 1991•254 pages- #2
Save:A deliciously trashy, addictive glimpse into the dark side of fame - equal parts camp, cautionary tale, and time capsule. Love it or hate it, it’s easy to see why this one’s a pop culture icon.
Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann is a 60s chick lit novel set primarily in the 1940s, following the lives of three women - Anne, Neely, and Jennifer - as they navigate fame, power, money, and relationships with each other and men. The story covers themes of drugs, disillusionment, heartache, and the destructive nature of fame, providing a snapshot of an era filled with excess and ambition. The book is described as trashy yet captivating, with a focus on the entertainment industry, stardom, and the dark side of success.
The narrative explores the lives of the female characters in a gritty world, depicting their rise and fall in the entertainment industry, along with themes of drug abuse, societal attitudes, and changing social norms. Despite being labeled as trashy and somewhat predictable, the book is praised for its engaging storytelling, vivid characters, and ability to evoke strong emotions in readers. Valley of the Dolls is considered a cult classic that remains relevant due to its exploration of timeless themes such as love, loss, ambition, and the complexities of female relationships.
The temperature hit ninety degrees the day she arrived. New York was steaming—an angry concrete animal caught unawares in an unseasonable hot spell. But she didn’t mind the heat or the littered midway...January 1966•469 pages - #3
Save:A clever, fast-past thriller with a pop culture edge and just enough Hollywood secrets to keep you hooked - if you want something truly dark, you might want to look elsewhere, but for a quick, juicy read, this one fits the bill.
The Dollhouse Academy by Margarita Montimore follows Ivy and her best friend Grace as they navigate the prestigious and shadowy world of an acting school, The Dollhouse Academy. The plot reveals the dark and demanding reality behind the glamorous facade of fame, exploring how Ivy's dreams of stardom clash with the harsh toll the academy takes on her identity. It incorporates mixed media, such as diary entries from Ivy, offering a glimpse into both her aspirations and the psychological challenges that accompany them.
Montimore’s writing style maintains a steady pace that quickens as the story unfolds, creating a sense of suspense. While some readers found it to lean more towards "rainbows and sunshine" than true darkness and cult-like vibes, the story still captivates through its exploration of showbiz's hidden pressures. Readers can expect engaging themes of celebrity conspiracies and the toll of fame, but some may feel the ending leaves too much open to interpretation.
Yesterday we wrapped filming on the three hundredth episode of In the Dollhouse. Camera crews and press agents from various media outlets swarmed to capture the milestone, along with representatives f...February 2025•320 pages - #4
Save:A cult-classic graphic novel overflowing with clever satire and absurdist comedy about the world of entertainment - perfect if you like your humor sharp and your comics unique.
The Cowboy Wally Show by Kyle Baker is a satirical graphic novel that follows the life and career of Cowboy Wally, a legendary yet clueless Hollywood entertainer. The book covers various aspects of Wally's attempts at fame, from hosting a kids' show to filming unconventional versions of Hamlet and participating in a late-night talk show. Through four chapters, the narrative provides a humorous and critical look at the entertainment industry, celebrity culture, and societal norms, all while maintaining a surreal and sarcastic tone that captures the absurdity of Wally's endeavors.
The book is praised for its astoundingly detailed and expressive artwork by Baker, which beautifully captures the characters' emotions and attitudes with the skill of a seasoned cartoonist. The dialogue is noted for its sarcastic wit and direct critique of popular culture, making the narrative engaging and entertaining for readers. Overall, The Cowboy Wally Show offers a unique blend of humor, satire, and social commentary, presenting a character who, despite his flaws, manages to be endearing in his eternal optimism and determination to achieve fame.
1988•140 pages - #5
Save:A one-of-a-kind, eye-opening look at Native American contributions to comedy - a bit dry at times, but definitely worth it for comedy buffs and fans of untold histories.
'We Had a Little Real Estate Problem' by Kliph Nesteroff provides a comprehensive history of Native American comedy, spanning from the end of the 19th Century to the present day. It delves into the struggles for representation faced by Native American comedians in various forms of entertainment such as wild west shows, circuses, movies, TV, stand-up, and theater. The author intertwines traditional biographical profiles of pioneers like Will Rogers and Charlie Hill with oral histories from lesser-known figures, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of Native comedians. Nesteroff's writing style is informative, engaging, and interspersed with humor, making the book a blend of historical insights and contemporary storytelling that captivates readers interested in comedy and Indigenous history.
For an Ojibwe social worker and part-time stand-up in the Red Lake Nation, getting to the closest open-mic night requires an arduous five-hour drive. Jonny Roberts says good-bye to his wife, two child...February 2021•335 pages - #6
Save:In 2004, four teens starred in the popular TV show, The Daydreams, where they sang and danced in front of millions. The story revolves around their rise to fame, friendship behind the scenes, and the eventual downfall of their careers. Fourteen years later, they agree to a reunion special for various reasons like forgiveness and revenge, leading to rekindling of old connections and unresolved emotions. The book delves into the dark sides of the entertainment industry, capturing the essence of the early 2000s era and exploring the impact of fame on young individuals.
Laura Hankin's writing in The Daydreams is described as well-crafted, fun, and effortlessly clever. The plot is a mix of drama, nostalgia, and satire, with a fast-paced dramedy style that keeps readers engaged. The characters are emotionally rich, and the dual timelines add depth to the storytelling, creating a blend of feel-good vibes and intense drama. The book skillfully balances character development with an intriguing plot, making it a smart and entertaining read for those who enjoy stories about fame, friendship, and the complexities of the entertainment industry.
Or, to rephrase in the family-friendly language preferred by the corporation that aired our TV show: The Mean Girl. A villain with devious plans and that devastating eyebrow. One slow raise of it, and...May 2023•358 pages - #7
Save:A super cute, feel-good sapphic YA romance with K-drama flair - perfect if you’re after comfort, sweetness, and a dash of showbiz sparkle.
'Flip the Script' by Lyla Lee is a young adult novel that follows Hana, a fan of K dramas who gets the opportunity to star in one herself. Forced to fake date her co-star to create buzz for the show, Hana navigates the challenges of the entertainment industry, including personal sacrifices and unexpected feelings for her on-screen rival. The book delves into themes of identity, industry issues, and sapphic romance, providing a glimpse into the world of Korean entertainment while exploring the complexities of relationships both on and off the screen.
The writing style of 'Flip the Script' is praised for its ability to transport readers to Seoul through vivid descriptions of sights, sounds, and food, creating an immersive reading experience. The book combines elements of drama, romance, and coming-of-age themes, offering a mix of lighthearted moments, heartfelt connections between characters, and a touch of realism in portraying the challenges faced by aspiring actors in the industry.
May 2022•300 pages - #8
Save:Beautiful People by Wendy Holden is a big and rambling novel spanning over 600 pages that intricately weaves together the lives of various characters. The story unfolds as the characters, including struggling actress Darcy, fading film star Belle, and nanny Emma, find themselves entangled in a web of relationships and drama, culminating in a gathering in a small town in Italy. The book delves into the shallowness of fame, the entertainment industry, and the dichotomy between outer beauty and inner beauty, all while exploring themes of artistic credibility and social class.
2009•694 pages - #9
Save:A clever, entertaining crime romp with plenty of laughs and heart - just be ready for a long (but rewarding) ride.
In 'The Rabbit Factory' by Marshall Karp, LAPD detectives Lomax and Biggs are thrown into a series of murders at the Familyland theme park, reminiscent of Disneyland. The book follows a roller coaster ride of twists and turns as the detectives race against time to solve the case and prevent further bloodshed. With a mix of humor, fast-paced action, and intricate plot development, the story unfolds with elements of mystery and suspense, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.
Six weeks ago he had lied, cheated, and bribed his way into the best job in the world. And now, he was Rambo. Rambunctious Rabbit, the most famous character Dean Lamaar ever created. The acknowledged...2005•553 pages - #10
Save:A charming, feel-good romance that’s perfect for anyone wanting a story about hope, healing, and dogs - with just enough depth to tug at your heartstrings. Not flawless, but definitely swoon-worthy and satisfying!
The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez is a romance novel that follows the story of Sloan Monroe, who is still grieving the death of her fiancé, Brandon, after a motorcycle accident two years ago. Sloan's life takes a turn when she rescues a stray dog named Tucker, which leads her to develop a friendship with the dog's owner, Jason Larsen, a famous musician. As Sloan navigates through her grief and Jason's rising fame, their relationship faces challenges that they must overcome to have a happy ever after.
The book explores themes of grief, love, communication, and the complexities of relationships, set against the backdrop of the music industry and personal growth. The writing style is described as light, enjoyable, and engaging, with a mix of humor, angst, and heartwarming moments that keep the readers invested in Sloan and Jason's journey towards finding love and healing.
My car idled at the red light next to a sidewalk lined with worn-out businesses and thirsty, drought-resistant oaks that looked like the lack of rain had finally broken their spirit. I baked in the bl...April 2020•400 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Friend Zone )
