Birthplace: Chipping Sodbury, England, United Kingdom
biography
Prior to becoming perhaps the best-selling author of all time, J.K. Rowling struggled with all manner of life problems that would have sent most mere mortals spiraling into pits of despair, never to be heard from again. Rowling, on the other hand, channeled her misfortunes into self-determination, achieving her lifelong goal of being a successful writer, and along the way, creating one of the best-known and beloved characters in contemporary literature. Her creation of Harry Potter – an angst-ridden boy who explores his powers as a budding magician while coping with the tragic loss of his
Sorry, kids. I come to you from the future, and as much as Harry Potter is this generation's iteration of Star Wars (in the size and scope of its success, fandom and merchandising), J.K. Rowling, beloved genius behind the Harry…
Moved to London to work as a researcher and bilingual secretary for Amnesty International
1990
Developed the idea for a story of a young boy attending a school of wizardry
Moved to Porto, Portugal to teach English as a foreign language
1994
Was on public assistance for nine months in 1994; during time completed what became her breakthrough book, "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" (retitled "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" for publication in the USA)
