Butler was born in Pasadena, California on June 22, 1947. She lost her father at a young age. Butler was raised by her mother, who worked as a maid. Butler started creating her own stories early on. Butler was dyslexic but she didn't let it challenge her from developing a love of books. She decided to make writing her life's work at the age of ten. As a child Butler was known for her shyness and her impressive height. She attended many colleges. She earned her associates degree at Pasadena City College. She also went to California State University, and University of California at Los Angeles.