Basically, an author is anyone who writes. You are the author of anything you write either digitally or traditionally.
However, when we refer to authors in this instance, we are talking about people who have written books or articles intended to be sold or distributed to a wide audience.
For a fun fact, having sold more than 500 million copies worldwide, Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling is the best–selling book series in history. However, the Bible as a singular book is the most widely circulated piece of writing ever.
From the beginning of time, authors or writers have played a critical role in the preservation of history, the conservation of culture, religion and literature, and the facilitation of education.
Who are the top authors in the world? Is your favourite author on the list? What is the best book you’ve read from your favourite author?
20 Richest Authors In The World And Their Current Net Worth 2021
1, JK Rowling – $1 Billion
Joanne Rowling CH, OBE, HonFRSE, FRCPE, FRSL, better known by her pen name J. K. Rowling, is the richest author in the world with an estimated wet worth of $1 Billion. The British writer is also a film producer, television producer, and screenwriter.’
JK Rowling is renowned for the series Harry Potter which was later adapted into TV series.
2, James Patterson – $800 Million
Patterson’s first book was published in 1976, and he has since written over 90 books. He has received numerous honours, including a Guinness World Record and a New York Times record for authoring over 70 best-sellers.
He excels in a variety of writing genres, including romance, nonfiction, and so on. James Patterson’s net worth of $800 million reflects his ability as a writer.
3, Jim Davis – $800 Million
Jim is on this list because he has combined his painting abilities with exceptional writing talent. He is best known as the creator of Garfield and The Mischievous Cat.
He hasn’t looked back since, and he was a member of the Emmy-winning Garfield TV specials writers. He has a net worth of $800 million.
4, Candy Spelling – $600 Million
Candy Spelling’s net worth of $600 million was not derived solely from the sale of her literary works. An autobiography, Stories from Candyland, was included on the list. Some of her fortunes have been passed down to her.
5, Paul Coelho – $500 Million
Paul Coelho is the author of The Alchemist, a national best-seller. The book has sold over 150 million copies worldwide and is the most translated book ever written by any author.
Even though he knew as a child that he wanted to be a writer, this achievement did not come easily. So, what is Paul Coelho’s net worth? His fortune is estimated to be $500 million.
6, Stephen King – $500 Million
Stephen King’s net worth is included on this list due to his ability to create thrilling stories that take horror, suspense, and fantasy to new heights. Some of King’s novels, such as The Shining and IT, have been adapted into television series. King’s books have sold over 350 million copies worldwide.
The novelist, who is 73 years old, has a thriving literary legacy. What is Stephen King’s estimated net worth? His net worth is estimated to be $500 million.
7, John Grisham – $400 Million
This author is well-known for his fast-paced, action-packed stories about crimes, criminals, and the solving of enigmas. This could be due to his legal background. He has a best-selling novel, The Firm, that has been adapted into a film starring popular actor Tom Cruise as the main character. John Grisham’s net worth is currently $400 million.
8, Michael Crichton – $400 Million
This author is well-known for his fast-paced, action-packed stories about crimes, criminals, and the solving of enigmas. This could be due to his legal background. He has a best-selling novel, The Firm, that has been adapted into a film starring popular actor Tom Cruise as the main character. John Grisham’s net worth is currently $400 million.
9, Nora Roberts – $390 Million
Nora Roberts’ net worth is estimated to be $390 million as a result of the sales of over 225 books. The American author did not find success on a silver platter, as she was turned down by several publishing houses.
In 1985, she released her first best-seller, Playing the Odds. She has written under pen names such as J. D. Robb, Jill March, and Sarah Hardesty.
10, Danielle Steel – $385 Million
Danielle recognized and began making writing efforts at the age of one when she wrote her first manuscript. Her first novel, however, was not published until she was 28 years old. Steel is the author of over 70 novels published under her pen name.
Danielle Steel’s net worth is $385 million, which she has amassed through her works of fiction and children’s literature.
Other Top Authors On The Richest Authors List Are:
11, Barbara Taylor Bradford – $300 Million
12, Tom Clancy – $300 Million
13, Olivia Harrison – $300 Million
14, Jeffery Archer – $200 Million
15, R. L. Stine – $200 Million
16, Dean Koontz – $200 Million
17, Jackie Collins – $180 Million
18, Dan Brown – $160 Million
19, David Oyedepo – $150 Million
20, Stephenie – $120 Million
