Brief Life Story of Ken Follet

The Writer With A Magic In Words

Ken Follet has been an accomplished novelist with a gripping and magical writing style and talent.

My personal start of reading fiction started from the book 'Key To Rebecca' in my teenage period back in 1983.

Ken Follett As A Master Storyteller

Ken Follett is one of the world's most successful authors.

He has captivated readers worldwide with his thrilling historical epics and spy novels.

He was born on June 5, 1949, in Cardiff, Wales. Follett grew up in a strict religious family where television, radio, and movies were forbidden.

This restriction led him to gravitate toward reading and storytelling, as books became his primary source of entertainment.

Early Life and Education

As Ken grew up in a religious household, he spent much of his time at church activities and reading.

His family later moved to London when he was ten years old. Despite the conservative environment, Ken Follett's parents valued education and encouraged his academic pursuits.

He attended Harrow Weald Grammar School and later Poole Technical College.

Ken Follett went on to study philosophy at University College London, where he became interested in politics and involved in center-left causes.

During his university years, he found and married his first wife, Mary, and had his first child.

After graduating in 1970, he pursued a career in journalism rather than continuing in academia.

Early Career

Starting as a trainee reporter for the South Wales Echo in Cardiff, Ken Follett later moved to London to work as a reporter for the Evening News.

In 1974, he took a position as deputy managing director at Everest Books, a small London publishing house.

During this time, he began writing fiction in the evenings and weekends, hoping to earn extra money to supplement his income.

Rise to Literary Success

Ken Follett's breakthrough came with "Eye of the Needle" (1978), his eleventh book but first major success.

This World War II spy thriller won the Edgar Award for Best Novel from the Mystery Writers of America and sold over 10 million copies.

The book was later adapted into a successful film starring Donald Sutherland.

Major Works and Sales

Following his initial success, Ken Follett produced a string of international bestsellers:

1. "The Pillars of the Earth" (1989) - Perhaps his most famous work, this historical novel about building a medieval cathedral has sold over 27 million copies worldwide and was adapted into a successful TV/Broadcast mini-series.

2. "World Without End" (2007) - The sequel to "Pillars of the Earth" sold approximately 7 million copies.

3. "The Century Trilogy" consisting of:
- "Fall of Giants" (2010)
- "Winter of the World" (2012)
- "Edge of Eternity" (2014)
Combined sales exceed 20 million copies.

4. "The Kingsbridge Series" including:
- "The Pillars of the Earth"
- "World Without End"
- "A Column of Fire" (2017)
- "The Evening and the Morning" (2020)
Total series sales surpass 50 million copies.

Other notable works include:
- "Triple" (1979)
- "The Key to Rebecca" (1980)
- "The Man from St. Petersburg" (1982)
- "Lie Down with Lions" (1986)
- "Night Over Water" (1991)
- "A Dangerous Fortune" (1993)
- "Whiteout" (2004)

Personal Life and Family

Ken Follet & Barbara Follet

Follett's first marriage to Mary Emma Ruth Elson lasted from 1968 to 1985, and they had two children together, Emanuele and Marie-Claire.

In 1985, he married Barbara Broer, a Labour Party politician who later became a Member of Parliament and served as Minister for Culture and Tourism. Through this marriage, he gained a stepson.

Ken's Achievements and Recognition

Throughout his career, Ken Follett has achieved numerous accolades:
- Edgar Award for "Eye of the Needle"
- Multiple New York Times bestsellers
- CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 2018 for services to literature and charity
- Honorary degrees from several universities
- Lifetime Achievement Awards from several literary organizations

His books have sold more than 180 million copies worldwide and have been translated into more than 30 languages.

Writing Style and Process

Ken Follett is extremely into details. He undergoes very meticulous research and gives detailed attention to historical facts and contexts.

He typically spends up to a year researching before beginning to write, and his novels often take between 12 and 18 months to complete.

He is famous for creating detailed outlines before starting the actual writing process.

wrap Up: Ken Follett's Legacy and Impact

Ken Follett has left a lingering mark on historical fiction and thriller genres.

His ability to blend historical events with compelling narratives has inspired many authors and helped popularize historical fiction among contemporary readers.

His works have entertained millions and also educated readers about various historical periods, from medieval times to the twentieth century.

Current Activities

Ken Follett continues to write and publish regularly.

He is actively involved in various literacy programs and charitable causes, particularly those promoting reading and education.

He maintains homes in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, and in London, where he continues to write and participate in literary events.

Ken Follett has established himself as one of the most successful authors of our time.

His works continue to captivate new generations of readers, ensuring to continue his legacy as a brilliant  storyteller that surely will endure for years to come.

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