Release Date: December 1, 2020

“Harriet the Spy” by Louise Fitzhugh was first published in 1964. Since then, this classic middle-grade school novel has sold over 5 million copies worldwide. However, the author’s personal life remained a mystery as she never granted interviews or attended bookstore publicity events.  Louise was born to a privileged family in Memphis during the 1920s and quickly accepted that she was a lesbian. She became unhappy with the local climate of racial and social segregation and left for New York City to study art and poetry. In her short life, she cultivated a life filled with rich experiences and a community of deep friendships. 

“Sometimes You Have To Lie” by Leslie Brody is a well-crafted biography of the complicated and interesting life of a pioneering woman. I found this book fascinating as it depicts someone who stayed true to herself while creating realistic books for young adults.  One of my earliest memories of “Harriet the Spy” was seeing it propped up in my school library as a recommended book. I was intrigued to learn more about the author.