Shirley Jackson: A Rather Haunted Life

This groundbreaking biography reveals the life and work of Shirley Jackson, a neglected master of American literature.

Franklin delves into the tumultuous life of the author of "The Lottery" and "We Have Always Lived in the Castle," exploring her unique contribution to the genre of literary suspense and psychological horror.

Placing Jackson within an American Gothic tradition stretching back to Hawthorne and Poe, Franklin demonstrates how her focus on "domestic horror" set her apart from her contemporaries.

Through a detailed examination of Jackson's life, work, and cultural context, Franklin sheds light on the darker side of Jackson's creativity, including her struggles with addiction and the strain on her marriage.

This comprehensive biography is a must-read for anyone interested in American literature and the complexities of women's lives in postwar America.