Wow! Interesting hearing that from an "insider"! The book I just recently read about John Barrymore did the same thing but limited to the first chapter. One chapter was enough to "set the stage" for the person he would become and appreciate the role his forebears had on his attitude & career.
I'll give the Spoto book another chance but find it confusing.
I want to like Sturges films and want to understand his life & art a little more.