Reading books is a favourite pastime for many, because there’s nothing better than immersing yourself in a world that somebody else created.
The world’s richest author has sold an incredible 600 million of their books worldwide – and you’d probably assume it was Stephen King or George R.R. Martin, right?
Both of them are prolific authors and have written many books during their time. Stephen King has written a whopping 77 books, and hundreds of short stories that horror fans have lapped up, including IT, which was made, and remade for the big screen.
R.R. Martin has written 47 books, including his immensely popular Game of Thrones series, which was later turned into an equally impressive TV show. However, neither of their net worths is as large as the author’s, who has also sold the most books.
During his career, Stephen King has sold around 400 million copies of his books worldwide – and it’s clear to see why he’s remained so popular over the years, as he’s diversified from horror into crime and other genres.
George R.R. Martin has also experienced massive success with his book sales, selling over 90 million copies worldwide – and his books have also been translated into 45 different languages.
However, with 490 million copies sold for both authors, they still haven’t reached the dizzying heights of the most popular author. They managed to get a net worth of a billion thanks to how many of their books they sold.
Have you managed to figure out which author is pipping the others to the post?
If you guessed J.K. Rowling, then you’re absolutely correct.
Her Harry Potter book series has generations in a chokehold, but it wasn’t an immediate success, as in her very early career, writing was a hobby, and not a way she could feasibly make money.
However, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was published in 1997 by Bloomsbury, and she was thrilled. From there, her career took off.
J.K. Rowling also donates millions to charity, not forgetting her humble roots, donating to causes to help those with MS, motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s, and dementia. As well as this, she donates to charities that help women, and helps people with education.
Sadly, however, J.K. Rowling has fallen out of favour with many of her LGBTQ+ fans thanks to her controversial outbursts on X, and run-ins with famous trans people. Miriam Margolyes, who played Professor Sprout in the films, told fans who were still obsessed with the franchise to “grow up” and “get over it”.
