Many people use literature as an outlet from their personal lives, the struggles and difficulties they face on a daily basis. They appreciate the unknown, the mysterious and the unrealistic; it gives them food for thought and offers a way to discover an unknown imaginary world. Many authors take different paths in their writing. Some inspire hope and optimism while others explore a morbid and intimidating way of writing. A common form is that of suspense and mystery. Shirley Jackson takes mystery to a distinctive level. It depicts an era that has not yet been revealed. By examining this author's journey, analyzing their writings, and responding to them personally, you will better enhance your learning experience and connection with this type of Black literature. Author Biography Shirley Jackson was an extremely popular American author in the 1900s. However, in recent years, literary critics as well as the educational system have begun to admire her more and more. Many of his works are read and analyzed by high school students across the country. Jackson's life led her to become the accomplished and sought-after writer she became. Shirley Jackson was born on December 14, 1916 in San Francisco, California. Born to her middle-class parents, Leslie and Geraldine Jackson, Shirley had an interesting childhood. As a teenager, her family decided to move to Rochester, New York. It was there that Shirley pursued her interest in literature and writing. From a young age, she began writing poetry and short stories. She then implemented her compulsive writing techniques (Grade Saver, 1999). Shirley was known for keeping journals, charts, and journals that retained information about the progress she made in her writing each day (Liter...... middle of paper...... for understanding, It is important to analyze and view all aspects of the text, this will ensure the education you receive, as well as the personal connections you make while reading. Works CitedAllen, L. (2009) From the biography of Shirley Jackson on. April 18, 2014. //shirleyjackson.org/index.htmlCharters, A. and Charters, SB (2007): The Lottery in Literature and Its Writers: A Compact Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, and Drama. (4th ed., pp. 222-229). Boston, USA: Bedford/St. Martins. Grade Saver (1999), List of books, study guides and essays | Retrieved April 18, 2014. com/author/shirley-jackson/Literal Media (2008) Biography of Shirley Jackson Retrieved April 18, 2014 from http://www.literalmedia.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=55&Itemid..=75