Carla Kaplan's new biography, Troublemaker, explores the extraordinary life of Jessica Mitford, the rebellious daughter of one of England's most eccentric aristocratic families. Unlike her sisters, who became famous as novelists, fascists, or socialites, Jessica broke away from her privileged background to become a committed activist and journalist. Her journey took her from eloping with Winston Churchill's nephew to fighting for justice in America, where she joined the Communist party and exposed corruption in industries like funeral services.

Mitford's most notable achievement was her bestselling book, The American Way Of Death, which revealed shocking practices in the funeral industry and made her a media sensation. Despite her success, she remained a controversial figure, known for her relentless pursuit of truth and her disdain for pretension and commercialism. Kaplan's biography paints a vivid portrait of a woman who, despite her aristocratic roots, dedicated her life to challenging injustice and questioning the status quo.

Jessica Mitford's story is one of defiance, tragedy, and tenacity, set against the backdrop of a family whose members were often at the center of twentieth-century history. Troublemaker offers an engaging look at the 'Red Sheep' of the Mitfords, whose legacy endures as both a muckraker and a champion of the underdog.