Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh was the book responsible for me starting my journal back in 1978. If I remember correctly, this was the book, our teacher would read to us. I thought it was so cool how Harriet would “spy” on her friends and write about her world that I did the same thing. Now – I have over forty years of journals to look back on.
Another cool thing about Harriet was she had her own spy outfit: flashlight, leather pouch for notebook and pens, water bottle, boyscout knife. By golly I have almost exactly the same writing things she does with the addition of a lap top and messenger bag.
I believe Harriet is responsible for many little boys and girls wanting to be writers. If for some reason you have not read this book and you are a writer I highly recommend it along with a tomato sandwich.
Warren Nast - Writer 