Harper Lee's Accomplishments

Harper Lee wasn’t popular in her early life. She did however become very popular and well known when one of her books, To Kill a Mockingbird got published. Once the book was published, she gained lots of money and fame. She didn’t use the money that she gained from the book to live in high class society. So she avoided the spotlight by living as a middle class person and dressing as one. There weren’t any fancy clothes, living conditions and she didn’t use her money to become famous. (Listland 1). She politely refused to talk with journalists. That was another way Harper Lee stayed away from the spotlight and fame. Harper Lee was the best person to become famous for avoiding the spotlight. She didn’t have a fancy life when she was younger, she was a tomboy. So living in a fancy place or having expensive clothes probably wasn’t in her comfort zone nor did she want it. In her early years she lived in a one story ranch house. (Shmoop 1). She wasn’t used to being in the spotlight. She didn’t live in a city at the time. Harper Lee lived in Alabama. A small town is where she grew up when she was younger and people in that town were very familiar with each other. She went shopping for clothes at a Wal-Mart and Vanity Fair
She retreated from her public life and her last appearance was in 2007. In that same year, 2007, she met President George W. Bush at the white house. Harper lee never expected her novel to become a success. She made the news whenever she received an award, but that was because her appearances were rare. (Hensher 1). She gave only one recorded interview and kept the award speeches very brief. Most writers when their book becomes highly popular celebrate by going to interviews, book readings and signings, and taking in the publicity by doing all these things and more. The book can be turned into a movie and the author can celebrate success by going on talk shows or appearing at the movie