Barbara Newhall Follett was born on March 4th, 1914

Written by: Fatima Ahmed

Barbara Newhall Follett: The Prodigy Novelist Who Vanished into Thin Air

At the tender age of 12, Barbara Newhall Follett made headlines with the publication of her debut novel, The House Without Windows, a feat that would catapult her to fame as a child prodigy novelist. Her subsequent novel, The Voyage of the Norman D., released when she was just 14, received critical acclaim, solidifying her position as a literary sensation.

Early Life and Inspiration

Born on March 4, 1914, in Hanover, New Hampshire, Barbara was the youngest of three sisters, with an elder half-sister, Grace, and a younger sister, Sabra. Her father, Wilson Follett, a literary editor, critic, and university lecturer, played a significant role in nurturing her literary talent. Her mother, Helen Thomas Follett, a former schoolteacher, homeschooled Barbara, fostering her love for reading and writing.

Barbara's imagination knew no bounds, even at a young age. She began writing poetry at four and created her own imaginary world, Farksolia, complete with its own language, Farksoo, by the time she was seven. This early fascination with language and storytelling laid the foundation for her future literary endeavors.

The Making of a Literary Prodigy

• In 1923, at the age of eight, Barbara began writing The Adventures of Eepersip, later rechristened The House Without Windows, as a birthday gift for her mother.
• The manuscript, unfortunately, perished in a house fire later that year, but Barbara rewrote the entire story from memory, showcasing her remarkable talent and dedication.
• With her father's guidance, the novel was published in 1927, making Barbara an overnight sensation in the literary world.

Career Highlights and Major Works

Barbara's writing career was marked by a series of accomplishments, including:

• The Voyage of the Norman D. (1928) - a novel that received critical acclaim and solidified her reputation as a talented young author.
• The Lost Island (1932) - a fantasy novel that showcased her unique storytelling ability.

A Life Cut Short

In December 1939, at the age of 25, Barbara seemingly vanished into thin air, leaving behind her husband, Nickerson Rogers, and a life that was fraught with depression and marital discord. Her disappearance remains a mystery to this day, a tragic end to a life that had once shone so bright with promise.

Legacy and Impact

Barbara Newhall Follett's remarkable life and work continue to inspire generations of writers and readers alike. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of imagination and the importance of nurturing young talent.

Though her life was marked by periods of struggle and uncertainty, Barbara's contributions to literature remain a beacon of hope, reminding us that even the briefest of lives can leave an indelible mark on the world.