Harriet the Spy Gets a Graphic Novel: Exclusive Cover Reveal

Harriet the Spy fans have a new reason to celebrate. The beloved children’s novel by Louise Fitzhugh, first published in 1964, is being transformed into a graphic novel. PEOPLE has an exclusive preview of the cover.

The new adaptation, titled Harriet the Spy: The Graphic Novel, will bring the story of Harriet M. Welsch back to the page. Harriet Webster, sharing the first name and a deep connection with the original protagonist, will adapt the story. Claudia Petrazzi provides illustrations that bring Fitzhugh’s world to life.

Story and Adaptation

The original novel follows Harriet, a New York City girl with aspirations of becoming a writer. Influenced by her nanny, she begins documenting her observations about friends and classmates. The plot takes a turn when her notebook goes missing, leading to chaos among her peers.

Webster, a fervent fan of Fitzhugh’s work, expresses her admiration for the author. She notes that Fitzhugh’s portrayal of Harriet’s self-awareness was revolutionary for children’s literature.

Sharing a first name and a passion for writing with my literary hero was a huge source of pride and comfort for me growing up, Webster shares with PEOPLE.

Previous Adaptations

Harriet the Spy has been adapted before. It was made into a movie in 1996 featuring Michelle Trachtenberg and adapted into an animated series on Apple TV+ in 2021. The graphic novel represents a new medium to engage with Harriet’s story.

Webster comments, Adapting [Fitzhugh’s] iconic, timeless story into a graphic novel alongside Claudia Petrazzi and the team has been a thrill and an honor.

Release Details

The graphic novel will be published by Delacorte Press on April 27, 2027. It is currently available for preorder through various booksellers.