Jackie Collins-Jacqueline Susann friendship subject of new book - Los Angeles Times

Susann was an actress before turning to writing later in life. She gave birth to her only child, who had severe autism - at a time when little was known about the disorder and even less support was available - and was herself diagnosed with breast cancer. Her drive to excel in publishing and become a bestselling author, which she achieved with Valley of the Dolls, credited with inventing the modern book tour and was spurred on by making sure she was able to provide for her son when her cancer returned. Susann died in 1974 at age 56.