Book Review Summary: Kiss Hollywood Good-By

Introduction

"Kiss Hollywood Good-by" by Anita Loos is a captivating memoir that provides an insightful look into the life of one of Hollywood's earliest screenwriters. Anita Loos, known for her witty and sharp writing style, delves into her experiences in the film industry and shares anecdotes about her encounters with famous celebrities. In this article, we will explore the book's author, analyze readers' views, and provide reasons for both recommending and not recommending this book.

About Anita Loos

Anita Loos, born on April 26, 1889, was an American screenwriter, playwright, and author. She is best known for her blockbuster comic novel, "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes," which catapulted her to fame. Loos began her career writing for silent films and worked closely with D.W. Griffith. She spent many years at MGM, collaborating with industry legends like Irving Thalberg. Loos's memoirs offer a glimpse into her successful and tumultuous life, showcasing her wit and storytelling prowess.

Analysis of Views

Laugh-Out-Loud Read: Readers praise Anita Loos's writing style, describing her as a "laugh-out-loud" read. Her ability to inject humor into her memoirs makes them enjoyable and entertaining.
Chronology Challenges: Some readers find Loos's sense of chronology challenging, as she leaps about in time throughout the book. This can make it difficult to follow the timeline and understand the sequence of events.
Girlish Glamour: Despite her youthful appearance, Loos's character is perceived as mature and wise beyond her years. Readers appreciate her girlish glamour and the way she captures the essence of the flapper era.
Steadfast Loyalty: Loos's devoted relationship with her husband, John Emerson, is a significant aspect of the book. Readers find it eye-opening to learn about his exploitative behavior and how Loos remained loyal to him despite his actions.
Hollywood Gossip: The memoir offers a wealth of Hollywood gossip and anecdotes about famous celebrities like Clark Gable, Jean Harlow, and H.L. Mencken. Readers enjoy the behind-the-scenes stories and insights into the lives of these iconic figures.

Reasons for Recommendation

Entertaining Storytelling: Anita Loos's ability to weave a captivating narrative makes "Kiss Hollywood Good-by" a highly recommended read. Her wit and storytelling skills keep readers engaged from start to finish.
Insight into Hollywood History: The memoir provides valuable insights into Hollywood's Golden Era, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of industry icons and their interactions with each other. It offers a unique perspective on the behind-the-scenes world of filmmaking during that time.
Fascinating Characters: Loos's portrayal of Hollywood celebrities and her own experiences with them make the book a delightful read. The characters she encounters leave a lasting impression on readers, making them feel as if they are part of the story themselves.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Chronology Issues: Some readers find the book's chronology challenging, which can make it difficult to follow the storyline and fully appreciate the narrative. This may be a drawback for readers who prefer a more structured narrative.
Outdated Views: A few readers point out that Loos's views on gender equality and Women's Lib may seem outdated to contemporary readers. While these views do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book, they may be a factor for those seeking a more progressive perspective on women's rights.

Conclusion

"Kiss Hollywood Good-by" by Anita Loos is a captivating memoir that offers readers an entertaining and insightful look into Hollywood's Golden Era. Through her witty storytelling and vivid descriptions, Loos brings to life the glamour, gossip, and intrigue of Hollywood during its heyday. While some readers may find the book challenging due to its chronology or outdated views on gender equality, overall, "Kiss Hollywood Good-by" is recommended for those interested in Hollywood history, fascinating characters, and a captivating narrative that transports readers back in time.