Joanne Rowling, better known by her pen name J.K. Rowling, is a British author and philanthropist. She is best known for writing the Harry Potter fantasy series, which has won multiple awards and sold more than 500 million copies, becoming the best-selling book series in history. The books are the basis of a popular film series, in which Rowling had overall approval on the scripts and was a producer on the final films. They are also the basis of many other Harry Potter-themed media and merchandise.
Rowling was born on July 31, 1965 in Yate, England. She grew up in Gloucestershire and attended Exeter University, where she earned a degree in French and Classics. After university, she worked as a researcher and bilingual secretary for Amnesty International before becoming a full-time writer.
Rowling's debut novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, was published in 1997 under the name J.K. Rowling, with the "K" standing for "Kathleen" as a tribute to her paternal grandmother. The book was an immediate success and the series went on to become a worldwide phenomenon. The final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, was published in 2007.
In addition to the Harry Potter series, Rowling has also written several other books under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, including the Cormoran Strike series and The Casual Vacancy. She has also written a number of children's books, including The Tales of Beedle the Bard and The Ickabog.
Rowling has received numerous awards for her writing, including several honorary degrees. She has also been recognized for her philanthropic efforts, including founding the charity Lumos, which works to end the institutionalization of children around the world.
In addition to her writing and philanthropy, Rowling is also known for her activism on social media. She has used her platform to speak out on issues such as gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and mental health awareness.
Overall, J.K. Rowling is a highly accomplished author and philanthropist whose impact on the literary world and beyond is undeniable. Her imagination and dedication have inspired countless readers and continue to do so to this day.