Bernard Verber French writer Date of Birth: 18.09.1961 Country: France

1. Early Life and Education
2. Literary Influences and Journalistic Career
3. Breakthrough with "Ant Trilogy"
4. Exploring Diverse Genres
5. Unconventional Approach and Creative Plans

Early Life and Education

Born in Toulouse, France in 1961, Bernard Werber began writing at the tender age of seven. He studied law at university, specializing in criminology to gather material for future detective novels. In 1982, he enrolled in the École Supérieure de Journalisme de Paris.

Literary Influences and Journalistic Career

During his journalism studies, Werber discovered the works of Isaac Asimov, Philip K. Dick, and Frank Herbert. These authors heavily influenced his worldview and led him to explore a genre that traditionally belonged to English writers: the fusion of science fiction, adventure novels, and philosophical essays.

Breakthrough with "Ant Trilogy"

Werber's debut novel, "Les Fourmis" (The Ants), was published in 1991 after six years of rejections. It became an instant bestseller, despite initial critical neglect. The sequel, "Le Jour des fourmis" (The Day of the Ants), won the Grand Prix des Lectrices de Elle in 1992. The trilogy concluded with "La Révolution des fourmis" (The Revolution of the Ants) in 1996.

Exploring Diverse Genres

Following the success of his ant series, Werber ventured into other genres. In 1993, he published "L'Encyclopédie du savoir relatif et absolu" (The Encyclopedia of Relative and Absolute Knowledge), which blended scientific facts with fiction and explored metaphysics and mysticism. He later tackled mythology and esotericism in novels such as "Les Thanatonautes" (The Thanatonauts) and "Le Livre du voyage" (The Book of Travels).

Unconventional Approach and Creative Plans

Despite his popularity with readers, Werber has faced limited recognition from French critics. Undeterred, he strategically releases his novels on October 1st, coinciding with the announcement of prestigious French literary prizes. He remains independent and has ambitious plans to adapt his works for the big screen.