Uncle Mame

A biography of the bestselling author of Auntie Mame, whose life was just as colorful as any of in his own books.

“Myers’s literate, impeccably researched and entertaining biography resurrects this outrageous author of social satires who almost singlehandedly introduced “camp” into mainstream American culture. . . . [A] well-told tale.” —Publishers Weekly

Edward Everett Tanner III, under his pseudonyms of Patrick Dennis and Virginia Rowans, was the author of sixteen novels—most of them bestsellers—including the classics Little Me and Genius. But, despite the success of his other works, he is by best known and best remembered for his most indelible creation—Auntie Mame.

Born and raised in the affluent suburbs of Chicago, Tanner moved to New York City after World War II and embarked upon a writing career. His first two books were published with a whimper—attracting few reviews and fewer sales—and his third book was rejected by nineteen publishers before being accepted at a relatively small house. But Auntie Mame became a phenomena spending two years on the bestseller lists, adapting into a successful play, movie, and later a musical. As a result of this and later successes, Tanner made millions and became the toast of a certain bohemian segment of Manhattan arts society. He also spent every cent he ever made. Torn between his wife and family and his own awakening realization of his homosexuality, he separated from his wife and moved to Mexico. By the early ‘70s, his writing career over, he embarked upon a new career—as a butler to some of the wealthiest families in America.

Based on extensive interviews with co-workers, friends, and relatives, Uncle Mame is a revealing, appealing portrait of a great American character. Easily the counterpart of such revered wits as P. G. Wodehouse and Evelyn Waugh, Dennis is not only the man who brought camp to the American mainstream, but also lived a life as wild, poignant, madcap, and intriguing as any of his own books.

“A deliciously necessary book. . . . Myers has done an astonishing job of research and analysis, and, even more irresistibly, he’s captured the breezy, confidential, transcendently gossipy Dennis tone.” —Paul Rudnick

“Raises a glass to Patrick Dennis, the divine social satirist who introduced America to Auntie Mame.” —Vanity Fair

“The book you have to read.” —Entertainment Weekly