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CREATIVE PRODUCING: A Pitch-to-Picture Guide to Movie Development was inspired by the undergraduate class Carol teaches in the Film and Television Production Division at USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. Her background in New York publishing laid the groundwork for her transition to Hollywood. The book includes personal stories about Carol’s career: the hirings and firings, the horrible bosses she worked for, the movies and TV she loves, and a close look at many of the 34 movies she produced. Her writer husband Tom contributed a chapter about writing. The book was published by Allworth, a division of Skyhorse, on October 3rd, 2023. The blurbs are from people Carol worked with at the beginning of their careers.

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“I have yet to meet a sharper or more knowledgeable producer. I was in good hands with Carol Baum; you will be, too.” ––Andy Breckman, Writer/Producer, Monk, Rat Race, I.Q.

“We wrote You Kill Me as a writing sample, honestly never dreaming it would get made. Carol Baum knew better than we did. She made our non-dream a splendid reality.” ––Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely, Writers/Producers, Avengers: Endgame, The Gray Man, You Kill Me

“Carol Baum is all in on the creative process of filmmaking. Completely committed to her team, and like all good leaders she knows when to step in and also when to step back and let the process find its own rhythm. Having worked with her in production and development, her understanding of story and writing is one of her strongest suits. In a sometimes ruthless business it’s reassuring to know that you have a true pro like Carol in your corner.” ––John Dahl, Director, The Last Seduction, You Kill Me, Ray Donovan, Yellowstone

“Carol Baum is a fantastic producer who understands filmmakers and storytelling and cinema as well as the ways to get films made and distributed.” ––David O. Russell, Writer/Director, Silver Linings Playbook, American Hustle

“Carol is one of the most decent, capable, and talented people I’ve ever worked with. She was the heart and soul of my company Sandollar during the years that she was with us.” ––Dolly Parton

“Carol Baum was the first real producer who saw my potential as a creator. She has always been one of the most astute, wise, kind, funny and indefatigable producers in our business and working with her was a total pleasure.” ––Mike White, Writer/Director, The White Lotus, The Good Girl

“For a director, Carol Baum is a dream producer. She champions your vision, has your back when crises arise, offers astute feedback, and makes every member of the team feel valued. Most importantly, after having produced successful features in every genre over many decades, Carol remains as passionate about movies as ever.” ––Ken Kwapis, Director, He’s Just Not That Into You, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, The Larry Sanders Show, The Office

“Anybody and everybody would gain from Carol’s wide-ranging experience and
knowledge. I myself have had the pleasure of working with her and speak from personal experience.” ––Larry Turman, Producer, The Graduate; Author of So You Want to Be a Producer; former Chair of USC’s Peter Stark Producing Program for 30 years

“What does it take to be a success in this crazy business? Don’t ask me. I just work here. But I know someone who can fill you in on it all… Carol Baum. She has taste, talent, know-how, and a lifetime of experience as a successful working producer. So, crack this thing open and let her show you the ropes.” ––Harvey Fierstein, Actor/Writer, Kinky Boots, Torch Song Trilogy, Hairspray, Tidy Endings