Jacqueline Susann
Biography
Jacqueline Susann (1918–1974) was an American author whose sensational novels broke sales records and revolutionized the publishing industry. Before becoming a writer, she pursued an acting career, appearing in various films, TV shows, and Broadway productions. Her debut novel, "Valley of the Dolls" (1966), became an instant, unprecedented phenomenon, selling millions of copies and becoming the fastest-selling book in publishing history. It boldly depicted the dark side of fame, drug addiction, and the entertainment world through the lives of three young women. Susann followed this success with other bestsellers like "The Love Machine" (1969) and "Once Is Not Enough" (1973). Known for her vibrant personality and relentless self-promotion, she actively toured and appeared on television, pioneering the modern book tour. She battled breast cancer for many years, maintaining her prolific output and public persona until her death.
Selected Thoughts
«I'd rather be a best-selling whore than an unread literary genius.»
«Nobody ever remembers that most people get along fine. Nobody remembers that most people are good and decent. That most people are okay. Everyone remembers the freaks.»
«You don't need a diploma to be a star.»
Writing Style
Susann's writing style is characterized by its accessible, fast-paced, and often melodramatic narrative. She employed a direct and unvarnished prose to tell stories of ambition, love, and disillusionment within the glamorous yet brutal worlds of Hollywood and Broadway. Her novels are known for their sensational plots, explicit depictions of sex and drug use, and a focus on strong, often troubled, female protagonists. She crafted page-turners designed for mass appeal, blending drama, romance, and social commentary with a keen eye for popular culture and human weakness.