The L.A. Novelist Who Doesn’t Get Her Due
An essay explores the literary legacy of Jackie Collins, arguing that her Hollywood-themed novels deserve recognition as part of the Los Angeles literary canon. The piece highlights how she used the surface glamour of Beverly Hills to explore deeper themes of power and degradation.
Why it matters
Re-evaluates the cultural significance of popular fiction writers often dismissed by traditional literary critics.
Jackie Collins wrote flashy Hollywood thrillers, but isn’t often thought of as a canonical Los Angeles writer.
Dina Litovsky for The Atlantic September 11, 2026, 12 PM ET Share Save This is an edition of the Books Briefing, our editors’ weekly guide to the best in books. Sign up for it here.
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