Rating: 
Summary: Inside Scoop on Hollywood
Review: Masello's book is probably the best book of advice explaining the all-so mysterical inner workings of the entertainment industry that I've ever come across. After reading this from cover to cover in about a day, I now feel better prepared to begin a career as a television writer. I wouldn't limit this book as a "how to" book. It reads like a novel. It's hysterical in parts. Masello is an excellent writer - a source to trust when taking advice.Even if you're not a writer but have the slightest curiousity of having a career in the film or tv industry, this book is for you. As a former actor, I found it interesting to see things from the other side. Masello discusses what producers do and how the actors effect the script-making process. He explains how all the pieces come together, and some times fall apart.
Rating:
Summary: It's Worth Having A Friend In The Business
Review: Robert Masello's book about writing for television is worth buying for anyone interested in the TV business. Instead of focusing on how to write a spec TV script Masello gives the reader useful information via his own TV experience on how to survive the shark infested waters of Hollywood. He tells the reader what to expect in a pitch meeting, as a freelance writer, and as a writer on staff for a weekly TV series. His advice is honest and witty; he had me laughing out loud starting with his opening quote. His personal experiences served to make the book a page turner from beginning to end. Like William Goldman's "Adventures in the Screen Trade" Masello's "A Friend in the Business" offers a down to earth, no punches pulled primer on what it's like to survive in the business. Even if you're not planning on becoming a TV writer, Masello's book is a fun read. I'd recommend it to all my friends (and have).
Rating: 
Summary: a great combination of job facts and street smarts
Review: This is both a fun book, and also a very infomative book, about the screenwriting business. It is full of academic truths about screenwriting, and it also contains alot of street smart realities that the writer (and author) learned over time. It has alot of good stories about the authors trials and tribulations, and shows how he approached the business, and then made alot of necessary corrections. I would give it a 4.5 without any hesitation. Very fun and informative.
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