Shirley Jackson

In this award-winning biography, Ruth Franklin revives the life and work of Shirley Jackson, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in American literature, best known for her chilling works like "The Lottery" and "The Haunting of Hill House." Delving into the complexities of Jackson's life as a mother and a writer, Franklin examines her contributions to the genres of literary suspense and psychological horror, highlighting themes of domestic horror and the societal pressures faced by women. Through previously undiscovered correspondence and new interviews, Franklin paints a portrait of Jackson's remarkable talent, shaped by a tumultuous upbringing and challenging marriage, ultimately establishing her as a generational icon in American letters.