Joanne Rowling, better known by her pen name J. K. Rowling, is a renowned British author and philanthropist. She is the creative genius behind the Harry Potter fantasy series, which has become a global phenomenon since the first book's release in 1997. The series includes seven volumes that follow the young wizard Harry Potter through his education at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The books have sold over 600 million copies and have been translated into 84 languages, leading to a vast media franchise encompassing films, video games, and more.

Born in Yate, Gloucestershire, Rowling's journey to success was filled with personal challenges including the death of her mother, the birth of her first child, a divorce, and financial struggles. Her perseverance led to the publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, which marked the beginning of a new era in the children's literature market. Rowling's work, while sometimes seen as conventional, has been influential in reviving the fantasy genre and has attracted both admiration and criticism.

Rowling's achievements have earned her numerous awards, including an OBE and being made a Companion of Honour for her services to literature and philanthropy. She has used her platform and wealth to support charitable causes through the Volant Charitable Trust and the charity Lumos, focusing on medical support and aiding at-risk women and children. Her political stances include donations to the Labour Party and opposition to Scottish independence and Brexit. Rowling has been a vocal figure in public debates, particularly concerning transgender rights, drawing both criticism and support.