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A review by pbraue13
Shirley Jackson: A Rather Haunted Life by Ruth Franklin
5.0
Shirley Jackson has always been one of those authors that many people have either heard of or read their most famous novels/stories ("The Haunting of Hill House", "The Lottery", etc.), but know very little about. Considering the author herself was a recluse and agoraphobe for much of her life, it is not surprising that recordings, documentaries, and interviews with her are quite rare. Ruth Franklin, the wonderful author of this biography, has had access to a Jackson that we (or at least I) have always wanted to know and, in turn, gives us access to her through the documents, letters, interviews, and books she finds and compiles on the famous and under documented author.
Never have I read a biography on an author where I have wanted to read or reread the entirety of their bibliography after reading until this book. As Neil Gaimen said, "Franklin tells the story of the author in a way that made me want to reread every word Jackson had ever written". She paints a picture of a woman whose own fears, anxieties, and pain influenced the lives and worlds of her characters and novels in varying ways. If you want an awesome look at one of the most mysterious authors and biggest influences of horror fiction, read this book.
I also must say that I read this book with a degree of jealousy as I wished I was able to have access to Jackson's diaries, letters, and notes! But yes! PLEASE READ IT.
Never have I read a biography on an author where I have wanted to read or reread the entirety of their bibliography after reading until this book. As Neil Gaimen said, "Franklin tells the story of the author in a way that made me want to reread every word Jackson had ever written". She paints a picture of a woman whose own fears, anxieties, and pain influenced the lives and worlds of her characters and novels in varying ways. If you want an awesome look at one of the most mysterious authors and biggest influences of horror fiction, read this book.
I also must say that I read this book with a degree of jealousy as I wished I was able to have access to Jackson's diaries, letters, and notes! But yes! PLEASE READ IT.