Eurithe LaBarthe (died 2017) was a prominent figure in the management of American author John Steinbeck's literary affairs, serving as his secretary and, later, a long-standing administrator for his literary estate. For decades, she played a crucial role in preserving, organizing, and overseeing Steinbeck's copyrights and posthumous publications.
Born in Canada, LaBarthe began working for John Steinbeck as his secretary through the literary agency McIntosh and Otis. Over time, she developed a close professional relationship with the author and a deep personal friendship with his third wife, Elaine Steinbeck. Following Steinbeck's death in 1968, LaBarthe transitioned to managing his extensive literary legacy, working closely with Elaine Steinbeck to protect his intellectual property and ensure the proper administration of his works.
Her responsibilities included handling permissions, overseeing foreign rights, and managing the voluminous correspondence and manuscripts associated with Steinbeck's oeuvre. LaBarthe was deeply knowledgeable about Steinbeck's writings and personal archives, making her an invaluable resource for scholars and publishers. She also played a significant role in various legal matters and disputes concerning the Steinbeck estate, particularly those related to the author's heirs.
Among her notable contributions, LaBarthe edited The Journal of a Novel: The East of Eden Letters (1969), a collection of letters Steinbeck wrote to his editor Pascal Covici during the composition of East of Eden. Her dedication to Steinbeck's work and legacy continued until her death in 2017, solidifying her position as an essential guardian of one of America's most celebrated literary figures.