E.L. James, author of best-selling erotic novels of the “Fifty Shades of Grey” trilogy takes first place in the Forbes’ best paid writers in the world, with revenues of $95 million dollars, in the period June 2012 – June 2013.
The British novelist dethroned James Patterson, who took first place in this top the last three years. With his novels in the series “Witch and Wizard”, James Patterson was the last year the undisputed leader of the literature for teens, even though he had the time to write other novels, along with Michael Ledwidge, in 2013. The American writer, author of the highly prolific franchises “Alex Cross” and “Maximum Ride” ranks second among the highest paid novelists in the world, with revenues of $91 million. According to Forbes, one book in 17 sold worldwide is by James Patterson.
But the trilogy “Fifty Shades of Grey” became a genuine editorial phenomenon. These novels, mocked by some, worshiped by others, were included in the “mommy porn” category, a genre for married women over 30 in search of eroticism and easy solutions to spice up marriages . On its website, Forbes announced Monday that the e-book format played a crucial role for the quick success of the franchise, as it allowed readers to buy these novels with a scandalous reputation in a discrete way and “devour” them away from prying eyes.
The trilogy “Fifty Shades of Grey” will be adapted for the big screen. Universal Pictures bought the film rights for $5 million. Although it is still unknown who will play the lead role in the new movie, the representatives of the Hollywood studios announced that Sam Taylor-Johnson was selected to provide project direction. The film will be released on August 1, 2014.
Novelist Suzanne Collins, author of the trilogy “The Hunger Games” ranks third in the top with earnings of $55 million.
Bill O’Reilly, anchor-star of Fox TV is on fourth place with earnings of $28 million, followed by the famous writer Danielle Steel, fifth with earnings of $26 million.
The top of the 10 best-paid writers in the world is completed in sequence by Jeff Kinney ($24 million), Janet Evanovich ($24 million), Nora Roberts ($23 million), Dan Brown ($22 million) and Stephen King ($20 million).
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