Jan 01, 2024 12:00 PM EST
J.K. Rowling Life Story: What Did She Do Before Writing the Famous 'Harry Potter' Book Series?

Joanne Rowling was raised in Gloucestershire and Chepstow after her birth in Bristol in 1965. Her mother, Anne, was a science technician, while her father, Peter, was employed at Rolls-Royce. Anne's multiple sclerosis diagnosis in Jo's teenage years preceded her death in 1990. Jo has a younger sister, Di.

Rowling's love of reading began at a young age, igniting her ambition to write. Writing her first book at six and her first novel at 11, she studied at Exeter University, including a year in Paris. After various jobs, including at Amnesty International, Rowling conceived 'Harry Potter' in 1990. Moving to Portugal, she married, had a daughter, and returned to the UK with early 'Harry Potter' manuscripts.

From Childhood Dreams to Wizarding Success

From a young age, the desire to become an author has been a constant in her life, and the sheer delight of creating stories finds her happiest in the solitude of their writing room. Growing up in a small village on the English/Welsh border, her literary journey commenced at six with a story about a rabbit named 'Rabbit.' When she was 11, Rowling had embarked on her first novel, a narrative woven around seven cursed diamonds and their owners. University life unfolded with studies in French and Classics, and a pivotal year in Paris became an integral part of their academic experience.

A few years later, in 1990, after relocating to London, Rowling sat on a delayed train from Manchester when the idea of a boy wizard attending a wizarding school struck her. Over five years, she mapped out the seven-book 'Harry Potter' series. After facing personal challenges and moving to Edinburgh, Rowling found a literary agent, leading to Bloomsbury publishing 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone' in 1997. The series transformed her life, translated into 80 languages.

READ ALSO: A Guide to Reading 'Percy Jackson' Book Series in Order Following the New Series Adaptation

From Adult Novels to Collaborative Works and Philanthropy

Using the mysterious title Robert Galbraith, the literary writer made stories for grownups like 'The Casual Vacancy' and went into the mystery genre. Returning to the enchanting realm of magic, she designed the film for the 'Fantastic Beasts' and helped produce 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.' During the COVID-19 lockdown, Rowling posted "The Ickabog" online and awarded royalties to her trusted partner Volant. Rowling supports various charities, including Lumos and MS research, and resides in Scotland with her family and dogs.

J.K. Rowling advised people starting to write that to excel as a writer, one must be a committed reader. Analyzing the elements of a good book is best achieved through extensive reading. Observe the successful and unsuccessful aspects, identify what captivates you, and understand why. Initially, emulation of favorite authors is standard, serving as a valuable learning process. Over time, writers develop their unique voices, departing from imitation and establishing a distinctive style.

J.K. Rowling's biography demonstrates that she symbolizes unwavering devotion and creative tenacity, from her early goals to Harry Potter's success as a wizard. Rowling's literary journey started with children's stories and expanded to include stories that affect readers worldwide.

Beyond the enchanting realms of Hogwarts, her foray into adult novels, crime fiction, and charitable endeavors showcases a multifaceted literary career. Rowling's enduring advice underscores the symbiotic relationship between reading and writing, urging aspiring writers to discern the nuances of storytelling. Rowling's impactful narrative extends beyond fantastical worlds, resonating with the essence of determination and the transformative power of storytelling.

RELATED ARTICLE: New Bookshops in Europe Celebrate Women's Voices: A Historic Step

 PREVIOUS POST
NEXT POST 

featured articles    

Why I Was Wrong About Speed Reading Apps

How can reading improve your writing skills?

5 Winning Lottery Books

Don't Miss! kids' furniture, décor & storage toys & games $100 to $200 with 70% off or more Coupons, Promo Codes, and Special Deals on May 6, 2017

About Us  |  Terms & Conditions  |  Privacy Policy  |  Contact Us