Rita Mae Brown

Rita Mae Brown is an American screenwriter, poet, novelist, and autobiographer. Born in Hanover in 1944, she was educated at New York University, the University of Florida, and the School of Visual Arts. Her literary output spans mystery fiction and screenplays, with notable works including *Rubyfruit Jungle*, *The Tail of the Tip-Off*, *Santa Clawed*, *Cat of the Century*, and *The Big Cat Nap*.

Brown’s writing focuses on animal rights, LGBTQ rights, lesbian feminism, and literature. She is associated with the lesbian feminism movement and was a member of the Lavender Menace. She identifies as a lesbian and speaks English. In her personal life, she has been unmarried partners with Martina Navratilova, Fannie Flagg, and Elaine Noble. She also plays polo. Her archives are held at the University of Virginia.