The Story of Hollywood: An Illustrated History

by Gregory Paul Williams

The Story of Hollywood follows Hollywood from its dusty origins to its glorious rise to stardom. Lavishly illustrated with over 800 vintage images from the author’s private collection, the book tells the complete story of Hollywood including its eventual decline and urban renewal. Both the playground of stars and the boulevard of broken dreams, Hollywood transformed American society with its motion pictures that revolutionized the entertainment world. The Story of Hollywood brings new insights to readers. with a passion for Hollywood and its place in the history of film, radio, and television.

Genres: Nonfiction, Film, History

403 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2006

Reviews

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

“In February 1910 Hollywood voted itself out of existence. It became a district of Los Angeles. To keep the large population of prohibitionists happy, the alcohol ban continued in the area.”

[Pauline Butcher Bird · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book because I hoped to find information about the log cabin at 2401 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, the house where Tom Mix apparently lived for a while and where, according to reports, he buried his horse, Tony, in the grounds. Alas, there was no such mention of the log cabin and scant entries for Tom Mix. Still, the book makes pleasant reading if you like stories about old Hollywood and has some wonderful photographs. I dip into it whenever I'm lounging in the living room and always find something new. It would make an excellent Christmas present for Hollywood buffs.

[Mary Popoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a short section on the first big Asian-American movie star S.I. Hayakawa, except S.I. Hayakawa is NOT a movie star, he’s a Canadian academic and politician. The movie star they’re referring to is Sessue Hayakawa…a disappointing mistake on an easily google-able topic

[Annette Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting pictorial history of the Hollywood area, from it's earliest days. A terrific history lesson for anyone interested in how So Cal came into being, with the added bonus of all the delicious film industry photos and information. This is a gorgeous, BIG book. I checked it out of the library, but fell in love with it and have now purchased it.

[Γιάννης Αυξεντίου · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice book

[Djr Djr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really well done. So many photos to truly illustrate the story of the place. Williams's book was a go-to for me while researching a historical fiction novella. He provides so many details of the people, the places, and the events that the book was a virtual encyclopedia which I returned to often to ensure an accurately told tale.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot say enough good about this book. It is amazing, if you love Hollywood's history, or vintage Hollywood, it is a must have.