Richmal Crompton, Author of Just William

This literary biography offers a compelling look beyond the beloved scruffy schoolboy William Brown to explore the complex woman who created him. Jane McVeigh delves into Richmal Crompton's multifaceted identity, revealing a writer deeply versed in Classical literature while also navigating life as a disabled author. The book serves as both a study of the first two William books and an essential introduction to Crompton's significant, yet often overlooked, adult fiction.

McVeigh's research is particularly impactful in examining how Crompton's personal experiences with disability and her writing on challenging themes like domestic violence informed her work. This biography will resonate most with readers who already cherish William's antics but are curious about the sophisticated literary mind behind the mischief, offering a richer, more nuanced understanding of a classic author's creative life and enduring legacy.