JK Rowling is an internationally acclaimed author, best known for creating the beloved Harry Potter series. She has become one of the most successful authors in the world and her books have been translated into over 80 languages. Rowling is also a philanthropist, feminist, and activist. Here is a look into her life, from her early beginnings to her current success.
JK Rowling’s Early Life
JK Rowling was born in Yate, Gloucestershire, England on July 31, 1965. She was the only daughter of Anne and Peter Rowling. Rowling’s mother was a science technician and her father was an engineer. Rowling attended St. Michael’s Primary School and then went on to study French, Classics and German at Exeter University.
Rowling first discovered her love of writing when she was only 6 years old. She wrote her first book at the age of 11 and continued writing throughout her school years. She also wrote fantasy stories for her friends. After graduating from university, Rowling moved to Portugal to teach English as a foreign language. It was during this time that she wrote the first draft of what would become her first novel in the Harry Potter series.
Rowling’s Professional Success
Rowling returned to England in 1995 and began to pursue publishing her novel. After multiple rejections, Bloomsbury Publishing agreed to publish the first book in the Harry Potter series, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”. The book was an immediate success and the rest of the series quickly followed. The Harry Potter series has gone on to become one of the most successful book franchises of all time, with millions of copies sold and translated into over 80 languages.
Rowling has also had success in the film industry. Warner Bros. Pictures produced 8 films based on the Harry Potter books, which have become the highest-grossing film series of all time. Rowling has also written two companion books, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” and “Quidditch Through the Ages”.
In addition to her writing career, Rowling is an active philanthropist and feminist. She founded the charity Lumos, which works to end the institutionalization of children around the world. Rowling is also a prominent feminist and has used her platform to speak out against gender inequality.
JK Rowling has come a long way from her humble beginnings in Gloucestershire, England. She has become an international sensation with her Harry Potter books and films, and has made a name for herself as a philanthropist and feminist. Her success is an inspiring story of hard work and determination, and her legacy will live on for many generations to come.
