Sometimes You Have to Lie: The Life and Times of Louise Fitzhugh, Renegade Author of Harriet the Spy

Harriet the Spy, by Louise Fitzhugh, is a classic children's book that introduces new realism into children's literature. The protagonist, Harriet, is an erratic, unsentimental, and endearing prototype of the author and artist Louise Fitzhugh. Fitzhugh's books are full of resistance to liars, conformity, authority, and even make-believe, and she lived her life as a dissenter, a friend to underdogs, outsiders, and artists. This biography brings Fitzhugh's creator into the frame, shedding new light on an extraordinary author and her marvelous creation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 24 December 2020
Publisher: Seal Press

Harriet the Spy, a masterpiece by Louise Fitzhugh, was first published in 1964 and has continued to captivate readers of all generations. The protagonist and anti-heroine, Harriet, is an erratic, unsentimental, and endearing character, reminiscent of the author herself. Born in 1928 in segregated Memphis, Fitzhugh escaped her privileged upbringing and ventured to New York, where she immersed herself in the vibrant art scene of the time. Her circle of friends included renowned artists like Maurice Sendak and playwrights like Lorraine Hansberry.

In the 1960s, Fitzhugh introduced a new level of realism into children's books with Harriet the Spy. She pioneered a genre that allowed characters to experience genuine emotions and address previously taboo topics. Fitzhugh's books are filled with resistance against liars, conformity, authority, and even make-believe, reflecting her dissenting nature and support for underdogs, outsiders, and artists. As a commercial children's author and lesbian, Fitzhugh often had to conceal the nature of her most intimate relationships, leading a life as a dissenter and friend to those marginalized by society.

Harriet's influence extends far beyond her literary legacy. She is considered a patron saint for misfit writers and unfeminine girls, inspiring and motivating new generations of readers. This lively and comprehensive biography delves into the life and work of Harriet, shedding light on her complex character and the enduring impact she has had on contemporary culture.

Weight: 574g
Dimension: 163 x 246 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781580057691