Who is Ken Follett and what are his primary literary genres?

Ken Follett is a Welsh author renowned for his work in thrillers and historical novels. He has achieved significant international success, with his books selling over 198 million copies worldwide and being translated into more than 80 languages across over 80 countries.

On what date and in what location was Ken Follett born?

Kenneth Martin Follett was born on June 5, 1949, in Cardiff, Wales.

What novel marked Ken Follett's major commercial breakthrough?

Ken Follett's commercial breakthrough occurred with the release of the spy thriller novel *Eye of the Needle* in 1978.

Which of Ken Follett's novels is considered his best-known work, and what series does it belong to?

Ken Follett's best-known work is *The Pillars of the Earth*, which is the inaugural novel in his popular *Kingsbridge* series of historical fiction.

How many books had Ken Follett published by the beginning of 2018?

By January 2018, Ken Follett had published a total of 44 books.

What is the significance of Ken Follett's novels appearing on the New York Times Best Seller list?

Many of Ken Follett's books have reached high positions on bestseller lists, including the number-one spot on the *New York Times* Best Seller list, signifying their widespread popularity and commercial success.

What were Ken Follett's parents' religious affiliations, and how did this impact his early life?

Ken Follett's parents were members of the Plymouth Brethren, a strict Christian group. Due to their religious beliefs, they prohibited him from watching films and television, which encouraged him to develop an early interest in reading.

How did Ken Follett's academic engagement evolve during his youth?

Initially, Ken Follett was an indifferent student, partly due to the restrictions imposed by his parents' faith. However, he began to apply himself more diligently to his studies as he entered his teenage years, attending Harrow Weald Grammar School and Poole Technical College.

Where did Ken Follett pursue his university education, and what subject did he study?

Ken Follett attended University College London, where he studied philosophy.

What were Ken Follett's political activities during his university years?

During his time at University College London, Ken Follett became actively involved in centre-left politics.

When did Ken Follett begin his career in journalism?

After completing a three-month postgraduate journalism course in 1970, Ken Follett started his career as a trainee reporter for the *South Wales Echo* newspaper in his hometown of Cardiff.

What prompted Ken Follett's transition from journalism to publishing?

Finding the work as a general-assignment reporter for the *Evening News* in London unchallenging, Ken Follett eventually moved into publishing, eventually becoming the deputy managing director of the small London publisher Everest Books by the late 1970s.

What was Ken Follett's initial motivation for writing fiction?

Ken Follett initially wrote fiction as a hobby in his spare time. He later explained that he began writing books due to financial need, specifically needing £200 to fix his car, and was inspired by a fellow journalist who had received an advance for a thriller.

What significant publishing agreement did Ken Follett enter into in 2024?

In 2024, Ken Follett signed a global English language publishing deal with Hachette UK and Hachette Book Group.

What were the first five spy thrillers written by Ken Follett that became bestsellers?

Following his breakthrough, the first five spy thrillers by Ken Follett that achieved bestseller status were *Eye of the Needle* (1978), *Triple* (1979), *The Key to Rebecca* (1980), *The Man from St. Petersburg* (1982), and *Lie Down with Lions* (1986).

What true story did Ken Follett recount in his 1983 novel *On Wings of Eagles*?

Ken Follett's novel *On Wings of Eagles* (1983) detailed the true account of the rescue of two employees of Ross Perot from Iran during the 1979 revolution.

Which of Ken Follett's novels achieved the number 2 ranking on the worldwide fiction best-sellers list for 1997?

In 1997, *The Third Twin*, a contemporary suspense novel published in 1996, was ranked second worldwide among international fiction best-sellers, according to the *Publishing Trends* annual survey, trailing only John Grisham's *The Partner*.

What is the central theme of the novel *Jackdaws*?

*Jackdaws* (2001) is a thriller centered on a group of women parachuted into France during World War II with the mission to destroy a crucial telephone exchange. The novel received the Corine Literature Prize in 2003.

What historical setting and subject matter are explored in *The Pillars of the Earth*?

*The Pillars of the Earth* (1989) is a historical fiction novel that chronicles the construction of a cathedral in a fictional small English town during the 12th century, a tumultuous period known as the Anarchy.

Describe the commercial success of *The Pillars of the Earth*.

*The Pillars of the Earth* achieved considerable success, earning positive reviews and appearing on *The New York Times* Best Seller list for eighteen weeks. It also topped bestseller charts in Canada, Britain, and Italy, and remained on the German bestseller list for six years, selling 26 million copies by 2017.

What historical event significantly impacts the characters in *World Without End*?

*World Without End* (2007), set in Kingsbridge 157 years after *Pillars of the Earth*, focuses on the descendants of the original characters and their lives being devastated by the Black Death, the plague that ravaged Europe in the mid-14th century.

What historical period and narrative focus define *A Column of Fire*?

*A Column of Fire* (2017) begins in 1558 and follows the romance between Ned Willard and Margery Fitzgerald over five decades. The story unfolds during the Elizabethan era, a time of political intrigue and external threats to Queen Elizabeth I's reign.

How does *The Evening and the Morning* contribute to the Kingsbridge series?

*The Evening and the Morning* (2020) functions as a prequel to *The Pillars of the Earth*, set around 1000 AD during the Dark Ages. It details the foundational development of the town of Kingsbridge and the diverse individuals, from clergy to commoners, who played significant roles in its establishment.

What historical context and themes are explored in Ken Follett's novel *The Armour of Light*?

*The Armour of Light* (2023) is set in 1792, marking the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. The novel delves into the societal transformations following the invention of the Spinning Jenny, exploring the human impact of progress and conflict during the Napoleonic Wars.

What major historical periods are covered across Ken Follett's *Century Trilogy*?

The *Century Trilogy* spans the 20th century, beginning with World War I and the Russian Revolution in *Fall of Giants* (2010), moving through the rise of Nazism, World War II, and the start of the Cold War in *Winter of the World* (2012), and concluding with the latter half of the 20th century, including the Cold War and civil rights movements, in *Edge of Eternity* (2014).

Which five families' intertwined destinies are chronicled in *Fall of Giants*?

*Fall of Giants* (2010) follows the interconnected lives of five families originating from Wales, the United States, Germany, Russia, and England as they experience the world-altering events of World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the struggle for women's suffrage.

What significant socio-political theme is emphasized in the first two books of the *Century Trilogy*?

The initial two volumes of the *Century Trilogy*, *Fall of Giants* and *Winter of the World*, highlight the growing political influence of the British working class and the ascent of the British Labour Party, notably through characters from the Welsh Williams family.

How does the focus on British politics shift in *Edge of Eternity* compared to the earlier *Century Trilogy* novels?

While *Fall of Giants* and *Winter of the World* prominently featured British politics, *Edge of Eternity* largely sidelines this aspect. The final book of the trilogy concentrates more on the Cold War and the American Civil Rights Movement, even omitting the rise of Margaret Thatcher in 1979 despite covering events up to 1989.

Which of Ken Follett's novels have been adapted into films or television mini-series?

Ken Follett's novel *Eye of the Needle* was adapted into a well-received film. Additionally, six of his novels have been produced as television mini-series: *The Key to Rebecca*, *Lie Down with Lions*, *On Wings of Eagles*, *The Third Twin*, *The Pillars of the Earth*, and *World Without End*.

What record was established when the television rights for *The Third Twin* were sold?

The television rights for Ken Follett's novel *The Third Twin* were sold to CBS for US$1,400,000, setting a record price at the time of the transaction.

Which of Ken Follett's works have been adapted into musicals?

Both *The Pillars of the Earth* and *A Column of Fire* have been adapted into musicals performed in Danish. *The Pillars of the Earth* premiered in Copenhagen in 2016, and *A Column of Fire* debuted in Klampenborg in 2019.

Has Ken Follett made cameo appearances in adaptations of his books?

Yes, Ken Follett has made cameo appearances in adaptations of his work. He played a valet in the mini-series *The Third Twin* and later appeared as a merchant in the mini-series *The Pillars of the Earth*.

What was Ken Follett's role in the National Year of Reading initiative?

Ken Follett served as the Chair for the National Year of Reading from 1998 to 1999, a British government project designed to enhance literacy levels across the country.

What organizations focused on literacy and education has Ken Follett supported?

Ken Follett has actively supported numerous organizations promoting literacy and writing. He was President of Dyslexia Action from 1998 to 2009, Patron of Schools Radio since 2007, Chair of the Advisory Committee for Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) UK since 2003, a Board Member of the National Academy of Writing since 2003, and a Trustee of the National Literacy Trust since 1996.

What was Ken Follett's public stance regarding Pope Benedict XVI's state visit to the UK in 2010?

In September 2010, Ken Follett was one of 54 prominent public figures who signed an open letter published in *The Guardian*, expressing their opposition to Pope Benedict XVI's state visit to the United Kingdom.

What political donations has Ken Follett and his wife made?

Ken Follett contributed £25,000 to Yvette Cooper's campaign during the 2015 Labour Party (UK) leadership election. His wife, Barbara Follett, also donated £25,000 to the same campaign.

Where are Ken Follett's personal archives preserved?

Ken Follett's archival materials, including outlines, drafts, correspondence, manuscripts, and out-of-print early books, are maintained at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan, USA.

Which book does Ken Follett identify as his favorite, and what qualities does he admire in it?

Ken Follett names *The Cruel Sea* by Nicholas Monsarrat as his favorite book. He particularly praises its realistic depiction of naval warfare and its profound exploration of human endurance during World War II.

What academic honor did Ken Follett receive from the University of Warwick in 2019?

In 2019, Ken Follett was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters degree by the University of Warwick.

What recognition did Ken Follett receive in the 2018 Birthday Honours list?

Ken Follett was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2018 Birthday Honours for his significant contributions to literature.

What distinction did Ken Follett receive from the Edgar Awards in 2013?

In 2013, Ken Follett was honored as a Grand Master at the Edgar Awards ceremony held in New York.

Which of Ken Follett's novels was recognized with the Corine Literature Prize in Bavaria in 2003?

Ken Follett's novel *Jackdaws* received the Corine Literature Prize in Bavaria in 2003.

What award did *Eye of the Needle* receive from the Mystery Writers of America?

In 1979, Ken Follett's novel *Eye of the Needle* was honored with the Edgar Best Novel Award by the Mystery Writers of America.

What is Ken Follett's current religious affiliation or belief?

Having rebelled against his parents' strict religious upbringing, Ken Follett became an atheist during university. He continues to identify as an atheist as of 2022, though he notes he maintains a spiritual life.

What musical activities does Ken Follett engage in?

Ken Follett is an amateur musician who plays the bass guitar in the band Damn Right I Got the Blues. He also occasionally performs with the folk group Clog Iron, playing a bass balalaika.

Where does Ken Follett currently reside?

Ken Follett resides in Hertfordshire, England, along with his wife, Barbara.

What are the titles included in Ken Follett's *Kingsbridge series*?

The *Kingsbridge series* comprises *The Pillars of the Earth* (1989), *World Without End* (2007), *A Column of Fire* (2017), the prequel *The Evening and the Morning* (2020), and *The Armour of Light* (2023).

List the novels that constitute Ken Follett's *Century Trilogy*.

Ken Follett's *Century Trilogy* consists of three novels: *Fall of Giants* (2010), *Winter of the World* (2012), and *Edge of Eternity* (2014).

Under what pseudonyms did Ken Follett publish some of his earlier works?

Ken Follett published early works under several pseudonyms, including Simon Myles for the *Apples Carstairs* series, Bernard L. Ross for *Amok: King of Legend* and *Capricorn One*, Zachary Stone for *The Modigliani Scandal* and *Paper Money*, and Martin Martinsen for *The Mystery Hideout* and *The Power Twins*.

What is the nature of Ken Follett's non-fiction book *The Heist of the Century*?

*The Heist of the Century* (1978), co-authored with René Louis Maurice and others, details a significant robbery. Follett has expressed a desire for this book, which he rewrote after translation issues, not to be published under his name and advises against purchasing it.

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About Ken Follett

Global Reach

Ken Follett is a Welsh author renowned for his captivating thrillers and expansive historical novels. His works have achieved extraordinary global success, selling over 198 million copies worldwide and being translated into more than 80 countries and 40 languages.^[1]^[2]^[3]

Literary Genres

Follett masterfully navigates multiple genres. He gained initial fame with suspenseful spy thrillers, exemplified by his breakthrough novel Eye of the Needle. Later, he ventured into historical fiction, creating immersive, multi-generational sagas that have become his signature, most notably the Kingsbridge series.^[4]

Early Life and Education

Welsh Origins

Born in Cardiff, Wales, on June 5, 1949, Kenneth Martin Follett was the eldest child of Martin and Lavinia Follett. His upbringing within the strict confines of the Plymouth Brethren faith meant limited exposure to popular media like films and television, fostering an early passion for reading.^[7]^[8]

Academic Journey

The family relocated to London when Ken was ten. Initially an indifferent student, he began to apply himself more seriously at Harrow Weald Grammar School and Poole Technical College. He pursued philosophy at University College London (UCL), where he became involved in centre-left politics. He graduated in 1970, completed a postgraduate journalism course, and began his career as a reporter.^[7]^[8]

Career Trajectory

Journalism and Publishing

Follett began his professional life as a trainee reporter for the South Wales Echo in Cardiff. After returning to London to work for the Evening News, he found journalism unfulfilling. He transitioned into publishing, eventually becoming deputy managing director of Everest Books by the late 1970s.^[7]

The Spark of Fiction

Initially writing fiction as a hobby, Follett's foray into novels was spurred by financial necessity. Inspired by a colleague's success with a thriller advance, he sought to earn £200 to repair his car. This led to the creation of his first thriller, which ultimately paved the way for his literary career.^[8]

Breakthrough and Bestsellers

International Acclaim

The 1978 release of Eye of the Needle marked a pivotal moment, becoming an international bestseller that sold over 10 million copies. This success propelled Follett to global recognition and financial stability, setting the stage for his subsequent literary achievements.^[10]

Genre Evolution

Following a string of successful spy thrillers in the 1980s, Follett pivoted to historical fiction with The Pillars of the Earth (1989). This epic novel, set in medieval England, became his most celebrated work and the first in the highly popular Kingsbridge series, demonstrating his versatility and storytelling prowess.^[a]

The Kingsbridge Saga

Pillars of the Earth

Published in 1989, The Pillars of the Earth is a monumental novel chronicling the construction of a cathedral in 12th-century England during a period of civil war known as the Anarchy. It achieved immense critical and commercial success, topping bestseller lists worldwide and selling over 26 million copies.^[12]

Expanding the Chronicle

The saga continued with World Without End (2007), set 157 years later and focusing on the impact of the Black Death. A Column of Fire (2017) followed, exploring religious conflict and political intrigue in Elizabethan England. The series expanded further with the prequel The Evening and the Morning (2020) and the latest installment, The Armour of Light (2023), set during the Industrial Revolution.^[14]^[15]^[19]

The Century Trilogy

Fall of Giants

The first book, Fall of Giants (2010), chronicles the lives of five interconnected families across America, Germany, Russia, England, and Wales against the backdrop of World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the fight for women's suffrage. It was an international bestseller upon release.^[20]

Winter of the World

Winter of the World (2012) continues the saga through the tumultuous mid-20th century, covering the rise of Nazi Germany, the Spanish Civil War, World War II, and the dawn of the Cold War, following the same families through these global upheavals.^[21]

Edge of Eternity

Concluding the trilogy, Edge of Eternity (2014) spans the latter half of the 20th century, focusing on the Cold War era, the American Civil Rights Movement, and the fall of the Berlin Wall, continuing the interwoven destinies of the five families.^[21]

Adaptations and Media

Screen and Stage

Many of Follett's novels have been adapted into successful films and television miniseries, including the acclaimed film version of Eye of the Needle and the award-winning miniseries adaptations of The Pillars of the Earth and World Without End. His works have also been brought to life as stage musicals in Denmark.^[22]^[23]^[24]

Digital and Cameos

Follett's storytelling has also extended into the digital realm with video game adaptations, such as Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth. He has also made cameo appearances in some of his screen adaptations, adding a personal touch to the visual translations of his narratives.^[13]

Accolades and Honors

Literary Recognition

Follett's contributions to literature have been widely recognized. He received the Edgar Award for Best Novel for Eye of the Needle and was honored as a Grand Master by the Mystery Writers of America. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature (FRSL).^[34]^[38]

Public and Academic Honors

In recognition of his services to literature, Follett was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2018. He has also received honorary doctorates from several universities, including the University of Warwick, University of Exeter, and Saginaw Valley State University.^[33]^[32]

Public Life and Advocacy

Literacy and Education

Follett is a dedicated advocate for literacy and education. He chaired the National Year of Reading initiative and has been actively involved with organizations such as Dyslexia Action and the National Literacy Trust, championing reading and writing skills.^[25]^[26]

Political and Civic Engagement

A prominent supporter of the Labour Party, Follett has been involved in political activities and fundraising. He has also contributed to various charities and served as a governor for local schools in his hometown of Stevenage, demonstrating a commitment to community engagement.^[27]^[28]

Personal Life

Family and Beliefs

Follett married Mary Elson in 1968, with whom he has two children, Emanuele and Marie-Claire. He later married Barbara Hubbard, a politician and Member of Parliament. While raised in a religious household, Follett identifies as an atheist but acknowledges having a spiritual life.^[40]

Artistic Pursuits

Beyond writing, Follett is an accomplished amateur musician. He plays bass guitar in the band Damn Right I Got the Blues and has been known to perform with the folk group Clog Iron, playing a bass balalaika, showcasing a diverse range of creative interests.^[41]

Key Works

Major Series

Follett is celebrated for his epic series that span generations and historical periods:

The Pillars of the Earth (1989)
World Without End (2007)
A Column of Fire (2017)
The Evening and the Morning (2020)
The Armour of Light (2023)

Fall of Giants (2010)
Winter of the World (2012)
Edge of Eternity (2014)

Notable Standalones & Thrillers

His career also features highly successful standalone novels and thrillers:

Eye of the Needle (1978)
The Key to Rebecca (1980)
The Man from St. Petersburg (1982)
A Dangerous Fortune (1993)
Whiteout (2004)
Never (2021)

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References

Ken Follett Biography. Book Reporter, 2021.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Ken Follett Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional literary advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional literary analysis or consultation. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

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Ken Follett: Architect of Worlds

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About Ken Follett ℹ️

💰 Global Reach

✍️ Literary Genres

Early Life and Education 🌱

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Welsh Origins

🎓 Academic Journey

Career Trajectory 🚀

📰 Journalism and Publishing

💡 The Spark of Fiction

Breakthrough and Bestsellers 🌟

📈 International Acclaim

📚 Genre Evolution

The Kingsbridge Saga 🏰

🏗️ Pillars of the Earth

⏳ Expanding the Chronicle

The Century Trilogy 🌍

⚔️ Fall of Giants

🔥 Winter of the World

❄️ Edge of Eternity

Adaptations and Media 🎬

📺 Screen and Stage

🎮 Digital and Cameos

Accolades and Honors 🏆

🏅 Literary Recognition

🎖️ Public and Academic Honors

Public Life and Advocacy 🗣️

📖 Literacy and Education

🏛️ Political and Civic Engagement

Personal Life ❤️

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family and Beliefs

🎵 Artistic Pursuits

Key Works 📖

📚 Major Series

🔍 Notable Standalones & Thrillers

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About Ken Follett

Global Reach

Literary Genres

Early Life and Education

Welsh Origins

Academic Journey

Career Trajectory

Journalism and Publishing

The Spark of Fiction

Breakthrough and Bestsellers

International Acclaim

Genre Evolution

The Kingsbridge Saga

Pillars of the Earth

Expanding the Chronicle

The Century Trilogy

Fall of Giants

Winter of the World

Edge of Eternity

Adaptations and Media

Screen and Stage

Digital and Cameos

Accolades and Honors

Literary Recognition

Public and Academic Honors

Public Life and Advocacy

Literacy and Education

Political and Civic Engagement

Personal Life

Family and Beliefs

Artistic Pursuits

Key Works

Major Series

Notable Standalones & Thrillers

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice