The Sun and Her Stars

This biography reveals the inspiring life of Salka Viertel, a key figure in Hollywood's golden age, and her cultural impact.

In The Sun and Her Stars, Donna Rifkind unveils the remarkable life of Salka Viertel, a screenwriter who played a pivotal role in 1930s and 40s Hollywood. While the glitz and glamour of the film industry often overshadow individual stories, Viertel’s contributions as a writer and a cultural hub are both profound and inspiring. She was not just a talented screenwriter, known for her collaborations with Greta Garbo, but also a nurturing figure who provided refuge for many artists fleeing the devastation of World War II.

Viertel's home in Santa Monica became a sanctuary for European émigrés, including renowned figures like Thomas Mann and Bertolt Brecht, as well as Hollywood stars such as Charlie Chaplin. Every Sunday, her living room buzzed with creativity and collaboration, fostering countless partnerships that would shape the arts. The comfort and warmth of her gatherings, described as the only ones in town with cozy armchairs, offered solace and inspiration to those escaping the horrors of their past.

The Sun and Her Stars not only highlights Salka Viertel's achievements but also reflects on her unique blend of modern sensibility and Old-World charm. With fluency in multiple languages and a rich cultural background, she embodied the diversity that fueled Hollywood's golden age. This biography serves as a long-overdue tribute to a woman whose influence and legacy continue to resonate in the arts today.