Classic Women Writers' Girlhood Portraits

Can you guess who they are?

This is the first of a semi-regular edition of Literary Ladies Guide’s newsletter for premium subscribers. A bit breezier than the regular (but hopefully always fascinating!) mid-week edition, this one will feature quotes, quizzes, and literary trivia — more great ways to pay tribute to women writers to start your week. Let’s begin …

It’s easy to imagine that our favorite classic authors popped out as full-fledged writers — talented, disciplined, and ready to sit down at their desks.

But of course, they started out just like the rest of us mere mortals, as kids, teens, and finally as young women struggling their way uncertainly into the land of letters. Here are a baker’s dozen portraits, presented with hints — can you identify them? Answers are at the end. Let us know how you did in the comments!

1 Despite the wealth and privilege this posh little future author grew up in, she didn't come into her own until she saw her first fledgling writing efforts in print. Yet even then, just like many (most?) of us, she fought mightily against the impostor syndrome.

2 Posing with her parents, this nature-loving girl created memorable animal tales, the most famous of which was at first self-published.