Who is the author of 'What Makes Sammy Run?'?

The author of 'What Makes Sammy Run?' is Budd Schulberg.

What are the main themes in 'What Makes Sammy Run?'?

The main themes in 'What Makes Sammy Run?' include Social Commentary, Fiction, Literature.

What genre is 'What Makes Sammy Run?'?

'What Makes Sammy Run?' is categorized as Literature, Fiction.

What is the main theme of 'What Makes Sammy Run?'

The main theme of 'What Makes Sammy Run?' is the corrupting influence of ambition and the ruthless nature of the entertainment industry. The novel explores how the desire for success can lead individuals to abandon their morals and values, as exemplified by the character Sammy Glick, who will do anything to achieve fame and power in Hollywood. Additionally, the book critiques the societal obsession with success and the lengths people will go to in pursuit of the American Dream.

Who is Sammy Glick and what drives his ambition?

Sammy Glick is the ambitious and ruthless protagonist of Budd Schulberg's novel 'What Makes Sammy Run?'. He is a young journalist who is determined to climb the ranks of the newspaper business in 1930s New York City. Sammy is driven by an insatiable desire for success, power, and recognition. His ambition is fueled by a relentless pursuit of fame and wealth, which leads him to manipulate others and exploit situations to achieve his goals. His character embodies the desperate quest for success at any cost, showcasing the moral complexities of ambition in the cutthroat world of journalism.

In what way does the book reflect the nature of the media industry in America?

'What Makes Sammy Run?' by Budd Schulberg provides a critical examination of the media industry in America during the 1940s, reflecting its competitive nature and the moral complexities involved. The novel showcases the ruthless ambition of its protagonist, Sammy Glick, who rises through the ranks of the newspaper business by exploiting others and disregarding ethical boundaries. The portrayal of a cutthroat atmosphere within the media industry highlights how success often requires sacrificing integrity, friendship, and personal values for ambition and fame. Furthermore, the book underscores the role of sensationalism in journalism, illustrating how the demand for eye-catching stories can compromise the quality of reporting, ultimately shaping public perception and societal values.

What are some significant challenges faced by the protagonist, Al Manheim?

Al Manheim, the protagonist of 'What Makes Sammy Run?' by Budd Schulberg, faces several significant challenges throughout the novel. Moral Dilemma: Al struggles with his own moral compass as he navigates the cutthroat world of Hollywood. He is often torn between his desire for success and the ethical implications of his actions. Ambition vs. Integrity: Al's ambition to succeed in the world of journalism conflicts with his integrity as he observes Sammy Glick's ruthless climb to the top. He grapples with the idea of compromising his values for professional advancement. Relationship Struggles: Al's relationships, particularly with women and his colleagues, are strained by his fixation on Sammy and the world of fame. His professional decisions often alienate him from those who care about him. Understanding Sammy Glick: One of Al's significant challenges is trying to comprehend the driving force behind Sammy's relentless ambition and lack of empathy. This obsession with understanding Sammy leads to internal conflict and professional dilemmas. Personal Reflection: Al is also faced with a personal crisis as he examines his own life choices while witnessing Sammy's rise. This reflection forces him to confront his own aspirations and the realities of success in a morally ambiguous world.

How does Budd Schulberg portray the concept of success in the novel?

In 'What Makes Sammy Run?', Budd Schulberg portrays the concept of success as a double-edged sword, highlighting both its allure and its moral consequences. The protagonist, Sammy Glick, is depicted as an ambitious and ruthless character who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals in the world of journalism. Schulberg illustrates how success is often linked to manipulation, deceit, and the exploitation of others, suggesting that the pursuit of success can lead to a loss of integrity and humanity. Through Sammy's journey, the novel critiques the superficial nature of success in the entertainment industry and raises questions about what it truly means to be successful. Ultimately, while Sammy achieves his aspirations, his character serves as a cautionary tale about the emptiness that can accompany such ambition.

What Makes Sammy Run?

In 'What Makes Sammy Run?', Budd Schulberg explores the dark underbelly of ambition in the world of screenwriting and Hollywood. The story follows a young, relentless go-getter named Sammy Glick, whose insatiable drive for success leads him to manipulate anyone in his path. Through the eyes of a disillusioned writer, readers are taken on a thrilling journey of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of climbing the social ladder. As Sammy's star rises, so do questions about morality, integrity, and the true meaning of success. Will Sammy's fast track to fame come with a price that he may not be willing to pay?

By Budd Schulberg

Published: 1993

""The truth is that ambition is the strongest drug of all, and the hunger for success can drive a man to run without ever looking back.""

Literature Fiction Social Commentary

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

The classic book that shaped two generations’ view of the movie business and introduced the archetypal Hollywood player Sammy Glick. He’s got a machete mouth and a genius for double-cross. As Budd Shulberg—author of the screenplay On the Waterfront—follows Sammy’s relentless upward progress, he creates a virtuoso study in character that manages to be hilariously appalling yet deeply compassionate. “Sammy Glick remains at the top of the Hollywood sleaze heap, a hustler nonpareil…. What Makes Sammy Run? Is still the quintessential novel about “the all-American heel.’” – Moredcai Richler, GQ

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from What Makes Sammy Run?

In "What Makes Sammy Run?", author Budd Schulberg intricately weaves the plot development around the rise of Sammy Glick, a young and ambitious man who will stop at nothing to ascend the ranks of Hollywood's screenwriting elite. Beginning with Sammy's obscure origins—working as a newspaper boy in New York—the narrative vividly portrays his relentless drive for success, juxtaposed with the moral compromises he makes along his journey. For instance, his rise is marked by manipulative tactics, such as exploiting friendships and betraying colleagues, illustrating his quest for power at any cost. The climax unfolds as Sammy achieves his dream of becoming a renowned screenwriter, but this triumph comes at a steep price: he becomes increasingly isolated, alienating those around him, and sacrificing his integrity. This transformation highlights the book’s broader themes of ambition, the corrupting influence of power, and the hollow nature of success in a cutthroat industry. Schulberg’s nuanced portrayal of Sammy's character not only provides a critique of Hollywood’s moral landscape but also serves as a cautionary tale about the costs of unchecked ambition, making this plot arc significant in understanding the dynamics of personal aspiration versus ethical considerations.

About the Author

Budd Schulberg

Budd Schulberg (1914-2009) was an American screenwriter and novelist, renowned for his deep understanding of the American social landscape and its complexities. He is best known for his acclaimed novel 'What Makes Sammy Run?' which explores the ruthless ambition of a young writer in the entertainment industry. Schulberg's other notable works include 'The Harder They Fall,' a piercing critique of the boxing world, and 'On the Waterfront,' which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Story. His writing style is characterized by sharp dialogue, vivid characterizations, and a keen sense of irony, often reflecting the moral ambiguities of American life. Schulberg's contributions to literature and film have earned him a prominent place in 20th-century American culture.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Budd Schulberg
Published: December 1993
Publisher: Vintage
ISBN: 0679734228
Language: English
Pages: 351
Genres: Social CommentaryFictionLiterature

Purchase Options

Buy on Amazon

Buy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

The Great Influenza

John M. Barry

Heartland

Sarah Smarsh

Americanah

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Family First

Phil McGraw, Phillip C. McGraw

The Bitcoin Standard

Saifedean Ammous

Nonviolent Communication

Marshall B. Rosenberg

Moonwalking with Einstein

Joshua Foer

Ernest Hemingway on Writing

Larry W. Phillips

Emma

Jane Austen

Why We're Polarized

Ezra Klein

Reboot

Jerry Colonna

Tightrope

Nicholas D. Kristof, Sheryl WuDunn

Slaughterhouse-Five

Kurt Vonnegut

The Wise Man's Fear

Patrick Rothfuss

A Wrinkle in Time

Madeleine L'Engle

The Secret History

Donna Tartt

In Vogue

Alberto Oliva, Norberto Angeletti

American Tabloid

James Ellroy

White Teeth

Zadie Smith

A Room of One's Own

Virginia Woolf

A Million Little Pieces

James Frey

Daisy Jones & The Six

Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Nickel Boys (Winner 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)

Colson Whitehead

The House of Mirth

Edith Wharton

The Shadow of the Wind

Carlos Ruiz Zafon

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Book Collections you might like →

Meghan Markle's Book Recommendations

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.

View Collection

Abi Tyas Tunggal's Book Recommendations

Abi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.

View Collection

Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations

Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.

View Collection

Janet Mock's Book Recommendations

Janet Mock is an acclaimed writer, director, and transgender rights activist known for her groundbreaking memoir, "Redefining Realness," which became a New York Times bestseller. She followed this with "Surpassing Certainty," further cementing her voice in contemporary literature. Mock's work has not only highlighted her own journey but also brought vital visibility to the transgender community. In addition to her literary achievements, she has made significant contributions to television, notably as a writer, director, and producer for the series "Pose." Through her multifaceted career, Mock has become a powerful advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and an influential figure in modern storytelling.

View Collection

Andrew Lokenauth's Book Recommendations

Andrew Lokenauth is a distinguished author and financial expert known for his insightful contributions to personal finance and investment literature. With a career spanning over a decade, he has written extensively on topics such as wealth management, financial planning, and market analysis. Lokenauth's works are celebrated for their clarity and practical advice, making complex financial concepts accessible to a broad audience. He has been featured in numerous financial publications and has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. Beyond his writing, Lokenauth is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at various seminars and workshops.

View Collection

John Green's Book Recommendations

John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.

View Collection

Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations

Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.

View Collection

Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations

Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.

View Collection

Daniel Burka's Book Recommendations

Daniel Burka is a prominent figure in the tech and design world, best known for his significant contributions to digital product design. As a design partner at GV (formerly Google Ventures), he has played a crucial role in shaping the user experience of numerous successful startups. Burka co-founded the design agency MetaLab, which has worked with top-tier clients like Slack and Coinbase. Additionally, his work at Digg as the Director of Design helped pioneer social media design trends in the early 2000s. While not primarily an author, Burka's influence extends into literature through his insightful writings and talks on design and innovation.

View Collection

Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.

View Collection

Jacqueline Novogratz's Book Recommendations

Jacqueline Novogratz is a pioneering social entrepreneur and the founder of Acumen, a non-profit global venture capital fund that uses entrepreneurial approaches to solve the problems of poverty. She is the author of the best-selling book "The Blue Sweater: Bridging the Gap Between Rich and Poor in an Interconnected World," which chronicles her journey from international banker to social innovator. Her work has significantly influenced the field of impact investing and reshaped approaches to global poverty alleviation. Novogratz's insights and narratives have inspired a generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers. Through her writing and leadership, she continues to advocate for patient capital and sustainable, inclusive development.

View Collection

Gretchen Rubin's Book Recommendations

Gretchen Rubin is a bestselling author and happiness expert, best known for her books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. She explores the science of habits, happiness, and human behavior, helping readers improve their everyday lives. Gretchen’s popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to cultivate a more joyful and meaningful life. Her work emphasizes small, daily changes that can lead to long-term well-being. She continues to be a sought-after speaker on topics of happiness and habit formation.

View Collection

James Aspey's Book Recommendations

James Aspey is an influential Australian animal rights activist and motivational speaker renowned for his compelling advocacy through literature and public speaking. He gained widespread attention in 2014 after taking a year-long vow of silence to raise awareness about animal cruelty, which he documented in his writings. Aspey has authored impactful articles and contributed to various platforms, shedding light on veganism and ethical treatment of animals. His articulate and passionate prose has inspired countless individuals to reconsider their dietary and lifestyle choices. Through his literary and activist efforts, Aspey continues to be a prominent voice in the global movement for animal rights.

View Collection

Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.

View Collection

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.