Grant Hayter-Menzies was the companion, caretaker, and archivist of a great American playwright, but he is also a writer of uncommon perceptiveness and grace. In this book, Grant gives us a probing backstage look at William Luce's most celebrated work; at the same time, he shows us a literary friendship that is in itself worthy of a play."—James Gavin, author of <i>Stormy Weather: The Life of Lena Horne</i> and <i>Is That All There Is? The Strange Life of Peggy Lee</i> "Hayter-Menzies has composed a poetic, touching, and insightful tribute worthy of his subjects. Julie Harris, Charles Nelson Reilly, and the Belle herself would delight in their portraits, but most of all, this work reveals the gifted, glorious, funny, witty, sly, and brilliant William Luce. In the most heartfelt, honest, and compassionate prose, Hayter-Menzies has brought Luce into the light!"—John W. Lowell, award-winning playwright, author of <i>Autumn Canticle</i> and <i>The Letters</i> "In <i>Staging Emily Dickinson</i>, Grant Hayter-Menzies gives us the full story of how Julie Harris, playwright William Luce, and director Charles Nelson Reilly came together to give the world the beautiful and still-traveling play <i>The Belle of Amherst</i>. A book like this does not come along often. Make an appointment to spend time with it."—Jim Grissom, author, <i>Follies of God: Tennessee Williams and the Women of the Fog</i> Hayter-Menzies has given us a fascinating and fully realized look into how three artistic geniuses forged their creative prowess into one of the greatest American plays of the 20th century. Gorgeously told, with unstoppable cadence and powerful imagery, the book is refreshingly candid with an inspired blending of courage and grace. A valuable work for anyone concerned with the theater."—Bill Haworth, crisis communications specialist, former award-winning broadcast reporter.