Last Updated: 08 May, 2024 | Views: 345
Age: 90
Profession: Writer
Other Profession(s): Author, Philanthropist, Academic, Teacher, Naval Officer
Famous For: Tales Of The South Pacific (1947)
Higher Education: Graduated
About (Profile/Biography):
James A. Michener was born on February 3, 1907, and died on October 16, 1997. He was an American author who wrote more than 40 books. His books include long, fictional family sagas set in specific geographic locations and incorporating historical elements. His books were bestsellers, and he was a member of the Book of the Month Club. His first book was adapted as the Broadway musical South Pacific by Rodgers and Hammerstein and then as the eponymous feature film in 1958 and 2001. In addition, films and TV series have been adapted from his other stories and novels.
James A. Michener Career:
• His writing career started during World War II when he was assigned to the South Pacific as a lieutenant in the Navy. Based on his notes and impressions, he published Tales of the South Pacific (1947) at the age of 40.
• James A. Michener became a roving editor for Readers' Guide to Periodical Literature in the late 1950s. He worked on that project until 1970.
• His novel Hawaii (1959), well-timed to coincide with Hawaii becoming the 50th state, sold approximately 75 million copies worldwide.
• A Bibliography, compiled by David A. Groseclose, was published by State House Press in 1996. Over 2,500 entries from 1923 to 1995 include magazine articles, forewords, and other works.
• The prodigious output of Michener led to long novels, some running over 1,000 pages. It is stated in My Lost Mexico (1992) that the author spent 12 to 14 days in Mexico at times.
James A. Michener Awards:
1971: Golden Plate Award
1981: St. Louis Literary Award
1993: U.S. Navy Memorial Foundation award
James A. Michener Unknown Facts:
James A. Michener's love of travel and exploration greatly influenced his writing. Over 120 countries were visited by him, and he immersed himself in the cultures and histories of each. The authenticity and richness of his novels result from this firsthand experience.
His reputation as a philanthropist complemented his success as a novelist. His lifetime donations to various charitable causes, particularly education, and the arts, exceeded $100 million.
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