Simon Green
Great Britain- Early Years
- Literary Beginnings
- Financial Struggles and a Bookstore Opportunity
- Contract and Breakout Success
Early Years
Simon Green, an acclaimed English fantasy author, was born on August 25, 1955, in Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, England. His literary journey began during his college days at the University of Leicester, where he earned a Master of Arts degree in Contemporary English and American Literature in 1978.
Literary Beginnings
Green's passion for writing emerged in 1973 while he was still a student in London. Despite facing numerous rejections from publishers, he remained determined to pursue his craft. His perseverance paid off in 1976 when he sold his first short story, although it was not published until much later.
Financial Struggles and a Bookstore Opportunity
After graduating, Green faced unemployment for three and a half years. In 1988, he found solace in the bookshop "Bilbo" in Bath. Just two days later, a glimmer of hope appeared when a publisher reached out to him regarding the two novels he had sent them two years prior.
Contract and Breakout Success
Green secured a seven-novel contract for his "Hawk and Fisher" fantasy series in 1989, followed by a two-novel deal in 1989. However, it was the novelization of the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" that brought him unexpected success. Despite Kevin Costner's then-limited fame, the book rights were sold for a mere 4% royalty. Surprisingly, the film soared in popularity, as did Green's novelization, selling close to 400,000 copies and reaching the bestseller list.
