The 20 Most Successful Authors of All Time—Who Sold the Most Books?

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By Christian Wiedeck, M.Sc.

The 20 Most Successful Authors of All Time—Who Sold the Most Books?

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Christian Wiedeck, M.Sc.

1. William Shakespeare

1. William Shakespeare (image credits: wikimedia)
1. William Shakespeare (image credits: wikimedia)

William Shakespeare is often regarded as the greatest playwright and poet in the English language. His works, including timeless classics like “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” have sold over 2 billion copies worldwide. Shakespeare’s influence on literature and the English language is immeasurable, and his plays continue to be performed and studied globally. His ability to capture the human experience in all its complexity has made his works resonate with audiences for centuries. Shakespeare’s unique talent for crafting intricate characters and plots has left an indelible mark on literature. His contribution to the arts extends beyond the written word, influencing theater, film, and even music.

2. Agatha Christie

2. Agatha Christie (image credits: wikimedia)
2. Agatha Christie (image credits: wikimedia)

Known as the “Queen of Crime,” Agatha Christie has sold over 2 billion copies of her mystery novels. Her most famous works, such as “Murder on the Orient Express” and “And Then There Were None,” have captivated readers for generations. Christie’s ability to craft intricate plots and memorable characters has solidified her place as one of the most successful authors in history. Her novels are renowned for their clever twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Christie’s ingenious storytelling and her creation of iconic detectives like Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple have made her a household name. Her stories have been adapted into countless films, television series, and stage plays, further cementing her legacy.

3. Barbara Cartland

3. Barbara Cartland (image credits: wikimedia)
3. Barbara Cartland (image credits: wikimedia)

Barbara Cartland, a prolific British author, is known for her romance novels. With over 700 published works and sales exceeding 1 billion copies, she holds the Guinness World Record for the most published books by a single author. Cartland’s novels, often set in historical contexts, have charmed readers with their enchanting tales of love. Her ability to transport readers to different eras and immerse them in romantic adventures has made her a beloved figure in the literary world. Cartland’s stories often explore themes of passion, forbidden love, and societal expectations, resonating with readers across generations. Her dedication to her craft and her prolific output have left a lasting impact on the romance genre.

4. Harold Robbins

4. Harold Robbins (image credits: wikimedia)
4. Harold Robbins (image credits: wikimedia)

Harold Robbins was a bestselling author known for his sensational novels, which often explored themes of love, power, and ambition. With over 750 million copies sold, Robbins’ works, such as “The Carpetbaggers” and “The Betsy,” have left a lasting impact on popular fiction. His ability to tap into the desires and struggles of his characters resonated with readers around the world. Robbins’ novels often delved into the darker aspects of human nature, captivating readers with their gritty and compelling narratives. His storytelling prowess and his exploration of complex relationships and societal dynamics have made him a prominent figure in the literary landscape.

5. Leo Tolstoy

5. Leo Tolstoy (image credits: wikimedia)
5. Leo Tolstoy (image credits: wikimedia)

Leo Tolstoy, the Russian author of epic novels like “War and Peace” and “Anna Karenina,” has sold over 500 million copies of his works. Tolstoy’s exploration of complex themes such as morality, family, and society has made his literature timeless. His philosophical insights and deep character studies continue to inspire readers and writers alike. Tolstoy’s novels are renowned for their rich detail, vivid descriptions, and profound examinations of the human condition. His ability to capture the intricacies of human emotions and societal dynamics has made his works enduring classics. Tolstoy’s impact on literature extends beyond his novels, as his ideas and philosophies have influenced generations of thinkers and writers.

6. Dr. Seuss

6. Dr. Seuss (image credits: wikimedia)
6. Dr. Seuss (image credits: wikimedia)

Dr. Seuss, the beloved children’s author, has sold over 600 million copies of his whimsical books. Titles like “The Cat in the Hat” and “Green Eggs and Ham” have become staples in children’s literature. Dr. Seuss’s unique rhyming style and imaginative characters have made reading enjoyable for generations of young readers. His ability to engage children with his playful language and vibrant illustrations has made him a cherished figure in the world of children’s literature. Dr. Seuss’s stories often convey important life lessons and encourage creativity and imagination. His enduring popularity is a testament to his ability to entertain and educate young minds.

7. J.K. Rowling

7. J.K. Rowling (image credits: wikimedia)
7. J.K. Rowling (image credits: wikimedia)

J.K. Rowling, the author of the “Harry Potter” series, has sold over 500 million copies of her books. The series has not only transformed children’s literature but has also created a global phenomenon, including movies, merchandise, and theme parks. Rowling’s ability to create a magical world filled with relatable characters has captured the hearts of millions. The “Harry Potter” series has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring a dedicated fan base and sparking a renewed interest in reading among young people. Rowling’s storytelling prowess and her exploration of themes such as friendship, bravery, and the power of love have made her a literary icon.

8. Stephen King

8. Stephen King (image credits: wikimedia)
8. Stephen King (image credits: wikimedia)

Stephen King is one of the most prolific authors in the horror genre, with over 350 million copies sold. His novels, such as “The Shining” and “It,” have terrified and entertained readers for decades. King’s masterful storytelling and ability to tap into human fears have made him a household name in literature. His ability to create suspenseful and chilling narratives has captivated readers and kept them on the edge of their seats. King’s exploration of the darker aspects of the human psyche and his skill in crafting memorable characters have solidified his place as a master of horror fiction.

9. Enid Blyton

9. Enid Blyton (image credits: wikimedia)
9. Enid Blyton (image credits: wikimedia)

Enid Blyton, a British children’s author, is best known for her series like “Famous Five” and “Secret Seven.” With over 600 million copies sold, Blyton’s books have been cherished by children for generations. Her engaging storytelling and adventurous plots have made her one of the most beloved authors in children’s literature. Blyton’s ability to transport young readers to exciting worlds filled with mystery and adventure has made her a favorite among children and parents alike. Her stories often emphasize the importance of friendship, teamwork, and moral values, resonating with readers of all ages.

10. Sidney Sheldon

10. Sidney Sheldon (image credits: wikimedia)
10. Sidney Sheldon (image credits: wikimedia)

Sidney Sheldon was a bestselling author known for his thrilling novels and screenplays. With over 300 million copies sold, his works, including “Master of the Game” and “The Other Side of Midnight,” have captivated readers with their suspenseful plots and complex characters. Sheldon’s ability to weave intricate stories has earned him a dedicated fan base. His novels often feature strong female protagonists and explore themes of ambition, betrayal, and revenge. Sheldon’s storytelling prowess and his ability to keep readers guessing have made him a master of the thriller genre.

11. James Patterson

11. James Patterson (image credits: wikimedia)
11. James Patterson (image credits: wikimedia)

James Patterson is a contemporary author known for his prolific output and bestselling thrillers. With over 300 million copies sold, Patterson’s books, including the Alex Cross series, have dominated bestseller lists. His unique writing style and ability to create gripping narratives have made him one of the most successful authors of our time. Patterson’s fast-paced plots and engaging characters have captivated readers and kept them coming back for more. His ability to craft suspenseful and entertaining stories has made him a favorite among thriller enthusiasts.

12. Danielle Steel

12. Danielle Steel (image credits: wikimedia)
12. Danielle Steel (image credits: wikimedia)

Danielle Steel is a renowned author of romance novels, with over 800 million copies sold. Her books often explore themes of love, loss, and resilience, resonating with readers around the world. Steel’s prolific writing career and ability to connect with her audience have solidified her status as a literary icon. Her novels often feature strong, relatable characters and explore the complexities of human relationships. Steel’s ability to capture the emotional depth of her characters and their experiences has made her a beloved figure in the romance genre.

13. John Grisham

13. John Grisham (image credits: wikimedia)
13. John Grisham (image credits: wikimedia)

John Grisham is a bestselling author known for his legal thrillers, with over 300 million copies sold. His novels, such as “The Firm” and “A Time to Kill,” have not only entertained readers but have also sparked discussions about the legal system. Grisham’s ability to blend suspense with legal intricacies has made him a favorite among thriller enthusiasts. His novels often explore themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of the legal world. Grisham’s storytelling prowess and his ability to create compelling narratives have made him a prominent figure in contemporary literature.

14. C.S. Lewis

14. C.S. Lewis (image credits: wikimedia)
14. C.S. Lewis (image credits: wikimedia)

C.S. Lewis, the author of “The Chronicles of Narnia,” has sold over 100 million copies of his works. His imaginative storytelling and exploration of themes such as faith and morality have made his books beloved by readers of all ages. Lewis’s ability to create fantastical worlds while addressing profound questions has left a lasting legacy in literature. His novels often explore themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the battle between good and evil. Lewis’s storytelling prowess and his ability to convey important moral lessons have made him a cherished figure in children’s literature.

15. George Orwell

15. George Orwell (image credits: wikimedia)
15. George Orwell (image credits: wikimedia)

George Orwell, known for his thought-provoking novels like “1984” and “Animal Farm,” has sold over 50 million copies. His exploration of totalitarianism, social injustice, and the human condition has made his works timeless classics. Orwell’s ability to convey complex ideas through accessible language has resonated with readers worldwide. His novels often serve as cautionary tales, warning against the dangers of oppressive regimes and the loss of individual freedom. Orwell’s storytelling prowess and his ability to provoke thought and discussion have made him a celebrated figure in literature.

16. Mark Twain

16. Mark Twain (image credits: wikimedia)
16. Mark Twain (image credits: wikimedia)

Mark Twain, the American author known for classics like “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” has sold over 50 million copies. Twain’s wit, humor, and keen observations of society have made his works enduring favorites. His contributions to American literature and his unique storytelling style continue to be celebrated. Twain’s novels often explore themes of friendship, adventure, and the complexities of human nature. His ability to capture the essence of American life and culture has made him a beloved figure in literary history.

17. Roald Dahl

17. Roald Dahl (image credits: wikimedia)
17. Roald Dahl (image credits: wikimedia)

Roald Dahl, the beloved children’s author, has sold over 250 million copies of his books. His imaginative tales, such as “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and “Matilda,” have enchanted readers of all ages. Dahl’s ability to blend humor with important life lessons has made him a cherished figure in children’s literature. His stories often feature whimsical characters, magical adventures, and themes of kindness, courage, and imagination. Dahl’s storytelling prowess and his ability to engage young readers have made him a beloved figure in children’s literature.

18. Paulo Coelho

18. Paulo Coelho (image credits: wikimedia)
18. Paulo Coelho (image credits: wikimedia)

Paulo Coelho, the Brazilian author of “The Alchemist,” has sold over 150 million copies of his works. His philosophical novels often explore themes of destiny and self-discovery, resonating with readers around the world. Coelho’s ability to inspire and uplift through his storytelling has earned him a dedicated following. His novels often explore themes of spirituality, personal growth, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Coelho’s ability to connect with readers on a deep and meaningful level has made him a beloved figure in contemporary literature.

19. Dan Brown

19. Dan Brown (image credits: wikimedia)
19. Dan Brown (image credits: wikimedia)

Dan Brown, known for his thrilling novels like “The Da Vinci Code,” has sold over 80 million copies. His ability to blend history, art, and suspense has captivated readers and sparked global discussions. Brown’s fast-paced narratives and intriguing plots have made him a prominent figure in contemporary literature. His novels often explore themes of conspiracy, religion, and the search for hidden truths. Brown’s storytelling prowess and his ability to keep readers guessing have made him a favorite among thriller enthusiasts.

20. Mitch Albom

20. Mitch Albom (image credits: wikimedia)
20. Mitch Albom (image credits: wikimedia)

Mitch Albom, the author of bestselling books like “Tuesdays with Morrie,” has sold over 40 million copies. His poignant storytelling and exploration of life’s important lessons have resonated with readers. Albom’s ability to connect with his audience on an emotional level has made his works deeply impactful. His novels often explore themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of meaning in life. Albom’s storytelling prowess and his ability to convey profound messages have made him a beloved figure in contemporary literature.

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