Henry A. (Henry Augustus) Shute

Born in Exeter, New Hampshire, in 1856, Henry Augustus Shute grew up in the town that would later shape much of his writing. He studied at Phillips Exeter Academy and graduated from Harvard in 1879, then built a long career as a lawyer and judge in his hometown.

Alongside his legal work, he became known for humorous stories of New England life, especially the “Plupy” tales that drew on his own boyhood memories. His best-known book, The Real Diary of a Real Boy, follows an energetic young narrator and has remained his most lasting work.

Shute’s writing is remembered for its affectionate picture of everyday life, mischievous childhood adventures, and local voice. He died in 1943, but his books still offer a vivid, funny glimpse of old Exeter and the world of a very real-feeling American boy.