Written by: Penelope Wildwood

Margery Sharp: The Whimsical Wordsmith Behind Miss Bianca and Bernard

Margery Sharp, a renowned English writer, is best known for her beloved The Rescuers series, which follows the daring adventures of a heroic mouse named Miss Bianca and her trusty partner Bernard. This iconic series, later adapted into animated feature films by Walt Disney Productions, has captivated readers of all ages with its rich tapestry of fantasy and excitement.

A Life of Wonder and Words

Born on January 25, 1905, in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, Margery Sharp's early life was a testament to her future literary endeavors. Her childhood, split between England and Malta, proved to be a rich source of inspiration for her later works, including The Sun in Scorpio.

Sharp's educational pursuits took her to Bedford College, University of London, where she studied French, and later to Westminster Art School, where she honed her artistic skills. Her involvement with the British University Women's Debating Team and her participation in the first team to compete in the United States demonstrated her natural flair for communication and persuasion.

A Career of Literary Delights

• Rhododendron Pie, her debut novel, was published in 1930, marking the beginning of a prolific writing career that spanned multiple genres and mediums.
• Sharp's work appeared in esteemed publications such as Punch, Harpers Bazaar, Ladies Home Journal, and Good Housekeeping, solidifying her position as a respected and versatile writer.
• In 1940, her seventh novel, The Nutmeg Tree, was adapted into a Broadway play, The Lady in Waiting, and later into the Hollywood film Julia Misbehaves, starring Greer Garson and Walter Pidgeon.
• Her 1946 novel, Cluny Brown, was adapted into a Hollywood film by Ernst Lubitsch, starring Academy Award winner Jennifer Jones.

A Legacy of Whimsy and Wonder

Margery Sharp's contribution to literature extends beyond her remarkable body of work. Her writing has inspired generations of readers, sparking imaginations and fostering a deep appreciation for the fantastical and the ordinary.

Through her beloved characters, Miss Bianca and Bernard, Sharp has left an indelible mark on popular culture, demonstrating the power of storytelling to transport and transform.

Today, Margery Sharp's legacy continues to delight readers of all ages, a testament to the timeless appeal of her whimsical words and the enduring magic of her creations.