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1. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
Before J.K. Rowling became a household name, her magical tale of a boy wizard was turned down by 12 different publishers. The rejection letters came one after another, with some editors claiming that children wouldn’t be interested in a story that long or about wizards. It took a small publisher, Bloomsbury, to finally take a chance in 1997 after the chairman’s eight-year-old daughter begged to read more of the manuscript. The book went on to sell over 120 million copies worldwide, inspiring a global phenomenon and setting records for children’s literature. Interestingly, Rowling was even told to “get a day job” because there was little chance of success. Today, Harry Potter is a multi-billion-dollar franchise, including movies, merchandise, and theme parks. This story is a reminder that sometimes, a child’s excitement can spot what grown-ups miss.
2. Carrie by Stephen King
Stephen King’s chilling debut, “Carrie,” was famously plucked from the trash. After receiving at least 30 rejection slips, King threw the manuscript away in frustration. His wife, Tabitha, rescued it and encouraged him to try again. Doubleday finally agreed to publish the book in 1974, and the paperback rights sold for $400,000—a staggering sum at the time. “Carrie” went on to sell millions of copies and established King as a master of horror. According to interviews, King still keeps some rejection slips pinned to his wall as a reminder of his journey. The story’s success led to iconic film adaptations and cemented King’s reputation. Sometimes, the scariest thing is almost giving up.
3. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
Anne Frank’s poignant diary, one of the most moving accounts of World War II, was initially rejected by at least 15 publishers. Some believed the content was too depressing or not marketable. Otto Frank, Anne’s father and the only surviving family member, persisted in seeking a publisher. When Contact Publishing in Amsterdam finally agreed to print it in 1947, it slowly gained recognition. Today, it has sold more than 30 million copies and is translated into over 70 languages. The diary is regarded as a vital piece of world history and a testament to hope and resilience. Its journey from rejection to universal acclaim shows the power of one voice against all odds.
4. Lord of the Flies by William Golding
William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies” faced over 20 rejections, with some editors calling it “an absurd and uninteresting fantasy.” One publisher even stated, “It is dull. Pointless. Unpublishable.” When Faber & Faber finally published it in 1954, the book didn’t sell well initially. However, it slowly gained traction and became a staple in schools, selling over 15 million copies worldwide and earning a Nobel Prize for Golding in 1983. The novel’s raw portrayal of human nature and society’s breakdown has inspired countless adaptations and discussions. Golding’s perseverance, despite harsh reviews, proved that an unconventional story could become a classic.
5. Dune by Frank Herbert
Science fiction legend “Dune” by Frank Herbert was famously rejected by more than 20 publishers. Editors found it too complex, too long, or simply too strange. Herbert persisted for years before Chilton Books, known primarily for auto repair manuals, finally published it in 1965. The novel went on to win the first Nebula Award for Best Novel and the Hugo Award, selling over 20 million copies. “Dune” is now considered the best-selling science fiction novel of all time, inspiring a blockbuster film and television adaptations. The story’s epic world-building and intricate politics have captivated generations, proving that sometimes, risky ideas pay off.
6. The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Kathryn Stockett’s “The Help” was rejected 60 times before finally being published. Stockett spent five years writing her novel, which explores the relationships between African-American maids and white families in 1960s Mississippi. When it was finally published in 2009 by Amy Einhorn Books, it quickly became a bestseller, spending more than 100 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller list. The book has sold over 10 million copies and inspired a successful film adaptation. Stockett has spoken openly about her rejections, saying, “I just kept going.” Her persistence is an example of how a powerful story can break through, even after dozens of setbacks.
7. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
Beatrix Potter’s whimsical story about a mischievous rabbit faced repeated rejection from publishers who doubted its appeal. After being turned down several times, Potter decided to self-publish 250 copies in 1901. The book’s handmade charm and delightful illustrations caught on, and Frederick Warne & Co. agreed to publish it in 1902. “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” has since sold over 45 million copies and has never been out of print. The success of Peter Rabbit sparked a beloved series, merchandise, and even theme parks. Potter’s initial setbacks didn’t stop her from becoming one of the world’s most famous children’s authors.
8. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig
Robert M. Pirsig’s philosophical novel was rejected a record 121 times, according to the author himself. Publishers found it too intellectual, too complicated, or simply too odd for mainstream readers. When William Morrow & Company finally published it in 1974, the book quickly sold millions of copies and became a cult classic. It remains one of the best-selling philosophy books ever written, with over five million copies sold. Pirsig’s story is a testament to endurance, and the book’s unique blend of narrative and philosophy continues to inspire readers decades later.
9. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
“A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle was rejected by at least 26 publishers. Editors found the story too complex and strange for children, with its mix of science fiction and fantasy. L’Engle almost gave up, but Farrar, Straus and Giroux took a chance in 1962. The book won the Newbery Medal and has sold more than 14 million copies. It remains a favorite in classrooms and was adapted into a major film in 2018. L’Engle’s persistence paid off, showing that sometimes the most unusual ideas are the ones that last.
10. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
J.D. Salinger’s classic novel was rejected by several publishers, with concerns about its language and controversial themes. Little, Brown and Company finally published the book in 1951, and it has since sold over 65 million copies. Its impact on American literature is undeniable, and it continues to provoke debate and discussion in schools and among readers. Salinger’s unique voice and candid exploration of teenage angst were initially seen as risky but have since become iconic.
11. Animal Farm by George Orwell
George Orwell’s political allegory “Animal Farm” was rejected by at least four publishers, some of whom feared repercussions from the Soviet Union during World War II. Orwell persevered, and Secker & Warburg published the book in 1945. “Animal Farm” has sold more than 20 million copies and is required reading in schools worldwide. Its sharp critique of totalitarianism and enduring relevance have made it one of the most important books of the 20th century.
12. Watership Down by Richard Adams
Richard Adams’ novel about a group of rabbits searching for a new home was rejected by 13 publishers. Some felt the story was too dark for children, while others thought it was too childish for adults. Rex Collings Ltd. finally published “Watership Down” in 1972, and it became an instant success, selling over 50 million copies. The book won the Carnegie Medal and inspired animated movies and TV series. Adams’ story shows that sometimes, a tale about animals can speak deeply to the human experience.
13. The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks
Nicholas Sparks’ debut novel “The Notebook” was rejected by 24 literary agencies before finding a home at Warner Books in 1996. The book went on to sell more than 105 million copies worldwide and launched Sparks’ career as a bestselling romance author. Its adaptation into a beloved film in 2004 only increased its popularity. Sparks has said he kept every rejection letter as motivation, proving that love stories can triumph over initial doubt.
14. Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Margaret Mitchell’s epic novel was rejected by 38 publishers before Macmillan finally accepted it in 1936. “Gone with the Wind” sold over one million copies in its first year alone and has now sold more than 30 million. The book won the Pulitzer Prize and was adapted into one of the most successful films of all time. Mitchell’s persistence and belief in her story changed the landscape of American literature.
15. Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach
Richard Bach’s philosophical novella was rejected more than 18 times before Macmillan published it in 1970. The book quickly soared to the top of bestseller lists, selling over 40 million copies globally. Its inspirational message about pursuing one’s dreams has resonated with readers for decades. Bach’s own journey, full of obstacles, mirrors the story of his determined seagull.
16. Dubliners by James Joyce
James Joyce’s collection of short stories, “Dubliners,” was rejected by at least 22 publishers, some of whom feared legal repercussions because of its frank language and social commentary. When Grant Richards finally published it in 1914, it didn’t sell well at first. Today, however, “Dubliners” is considered a masterpiece, studied around the world, and praised for its groundbreaking style and realism. Joyce’s struggles highlight how even the most innovative works can be misunderstood at first.
17. Chicken Soup for the Soul by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen
The first “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book faced 144 rejections—almost a record! Publishers doubted the market for inspirational stories, calling the concept “too positive.” Heath Communications took a chance in 1993, and the book has since sold over 11 million copies in the U.S. alone, spawning a massive series and brand. The authors’ persistence and faith in the power of storytelling changed the landscape of self-help publishing.
18. The Shack by William P. Young
William P. Young’s Christian novel “The Shack” was rejected by 26 publishers. Young and his friends ended up self-publishing the book in 2007. Through word of mouth and grassroots marketing, it became a surprise bestseller, selling over 20 million copies worldwide. The novel also inspired a major film adaptation. Young’s story proves that sometimes, the right message finds its audience in unexpected ways.
19. The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré
John le Carré’s classic espionage novel was initially turned down by several publishers who doubted the appeal of a grim, realistic spy story. When Victor Gollancz published it in 1963, it revolutionized the genre and sold more than 20 million copies. The book’s success set the tone for modern spy fiction, showing that readers were ready for a more nuanced, less glamorous view of intelligence work.
20. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
L. Frank Baum’s fantastical adventure, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” was rejected by multiple publishers who doubted its commercial potential. George M. Hill Company finally published it in 1900, and the book became an instant hit, selling over three million copies by 1956. It inspired a beloved film and countless adaptations. Baum’s imaginative world has enchanted generations, proving that sometimes, the most magical stories need a little patience to find their way.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
