J.K. Rowling, born Joanne Rowling on July 31, 1965, in Yate, Gloucestershire, England, is a British author best known for creating the "Harry Potter" series, one of the most successful and beloved literary franchises in history.

Rowling's early life was marked by personal challenges, including the loss of her mother and struggles with depression. Despite these obstacles, she developed a passion for storytelling at a young age and began writing stories as a child.

After studying French and the Classics at the University of Exeter, Rowling worked various jobs, including as a researcher and bilingual secretary, while continuing to write in her spare time. The idea for "Harry Potter" came to her during a delayed train journey from Manchester to London in 1990. Over the next few years, she meticulously planned out the story and world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

In 1997, Rowling's debut novel, "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" (published as "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" in the United States), was released to critical acclaim. The book introduced readers to the young wizard Harry Potter and his adventures at Hogwarts, where he discovers his magical heritage and confronts the dark wizard Voldemort.

The success of the first book launched a literary phenomenon, with subsequent books in the series—seven in total—breaking records and captivating readers of all ages around the world. The "Harry Potter" series has been translated into over 80 languages and has sold over 500 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling book series in history.

In addition to the books, the "Harry Potter" franchise expanded to include films, stage plays, theme parks, merchandise, and a multimedia website, Pottermore (now Wizarding World), further solidifying its cultural impact and Rowling's status as one of the most influential authors of her generation.

Beyond "Harry Potter," Rowling has written novels for adults under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, including the Cormoran Strike detective series. She has also been actively involved in philanthropy, supporting various causes related to children's welfare, literacy, and multiple sclerosis research, among others.

Despite controversy surrounding some of her statements and views on social media, Rowling's contributions to literature and her influence on readers and writers worldwide remain undeniable, shaping the landscape of contemporary literature and inspiring generations of fans.