Susan Butler, a resident of Brookline, Massachusetts, is the daughter of actress and author Jean Rouverol. Born in the US, part of her childhood was spent in Mexico City.

Her first book was a photographic picture book, A Trip to the Jungle (1978). The Hermit Thrush (1999) was her first novel.

Butler completed a Master's Thesis at the University of Massachusetts, Boston (2002). She taught part time at Pine Manor College from 1971 to 1997, when she joined the faculty as a full-time assistant professor. She was awarded tenure in 2004, achieving the rank of Associate Professor of Photography and Visual Arts. She received several Radcliffe Institute Fellowships and had numerous exhibitions, including at Radcliffe’s Bunting Institute, the Helen Bumpus Gallery, and the Hess Gallery.

Butler taught a range of courses designed to encourage students in critical and creative thought and expression. Her teaching included interdisciplinary courses
such as Metaphorical Thinking -- Explosions of a Hidden Likeness and Creativity in Life and Work.

(Sources: The Hermit Thrush Sings, Pine Manor College Bulletin, Volume LVIII No. 1, and Butler's master's thesis)