Amanda McKittrick Ros

Born Anna Margaret McKittrick in County Down in 1860, she became known under the pen name Amanda McKittrick Ros. She worked as a teacher before turning to writing, and she published her first novel, Irene Iddesleigh, in 1897.

Ros wrote novels and poetry in a highly ornate, emotional style that drew fierce criticism as well as curious admiration. Over time, that unusual reputation helped keep her work alive, and Irene Iddesleigh was reprinted in the 1920s after attracting a new wave of attention.

She died in 1939, but her place in literary history remains surprisingly durable. Whether readers approach her work for seriousness, fascination, or sheer curiosity, she is still one of the most memorable literary eccentrics to come out of Ireland.