In the heart of Budd Schulberg's searing novel "What Makes Sammy Run?" lies the enigmatic and relentless Sammy Glick, a young man whose ambition is as boundless as it is ruthless. From the squalid streets of New York’s East Side to the glitzy veneer of Hollywood, Sammy bulldozes his way through the ranks, leaving a trail of shattered dreams and broken spirits in his relentless pursuit of success. Schulberg crafts a narrative that is as compelling as it is critical, offering a stark examination of the corrosive effects of unchecked ambition on the soul and society. With a pen dipped in vitriol, Schulberg presents Sammy Glick, not as a mere character, but as a symbol of a broader societal malaise, embodying the dark side of the American Dream. Schulberg’s narrative is unflinching in its portrayal of the entertainment industry, stripping away the glamour to reveal a world driven by greed, betrayal, and the insatiable hunger for power. Through the vivid, almost cinematic journey of Sammy Glick, Schulberg invites readers to ponder the cost of success and the price of ambition. "What Makes Sammy Run?" is more than just a novel about Hollywood; it is a timeless exploration of the human condition, challenging readers to question what drives us and at what point ambition becomes a destructive force. Schulberg’s masterpiece remains a poignant commentary on the allure and perils of ambition, making it a must-read for anyone who has ever wondered what pushes some to forsake all in the relentless pursuit of their desires.