What Makes Sammy Run

“What Makes Sammy Run?” by Budd Schulberg is a compelling exploration of ambition, success, and the price of ruthless ambition in the pursuit of the American Dream. Set against the backdrop of the Golden Age of Hollywood, the novel follows the meteoric rise of Sammy Glick, a brash and cunning opportunist determined to climb the ladder of success at any cost. Through the eyes of Al Manheim, a disillusioned screenwriter, Schulberg provides a scathing critique of the cutthroat nature of the entertainment industry and the moral compromises often required for advancement. As Sammy manipulates, connives, and charms his way to the top, readers are forced to confront uncomfortable truths about the nature of ambition and the lengths some will go to achieve their goals.