Renowned British writer A.S. Byatt, known for her award-winning novels including 'Possession' and 'The Children's Book,' has passed away at the age of 87. Byatt, born Antonia Susan Drabble, published her first novel in 1964 and went on to write essays, novellas, and short stories. 'Possession,' published in 1990, won the Booker Prize for fiction and was later adapted into a film. Byatt's body of work also includes the Frederica Quartet and 'The Children's Book,' which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize. Byatt's death was announced by Chatto & Windus, a British imprint of Penguin Random House. Byatt's literary agent described her writing as multi-layered, varied, and intellectual. Byatt's books have been translated into 38 languages. Byatt, born in 1936, grew up in a Quaker family and worked as a university lecturer before becoming a full-time writer. She had a tragic personal life, losing her son in a car accident in 1972. Byatt's works will continue to be cherished by readers for generations to come.
Anne Edwards, a prolific author known as the 'Queen of Biography,' has also passed away at the age of 96. Edwards wrote best-selling books about actresses Vivien Leigh and Katharine Hepburn, as well as 14 other celebrity biographies, eight novels, three children's books, two memoirs, and one autobiography. She sold her first screenplay in 1949 and her first novel in 1968. Her biography of Vivien Leigh spent 19 weeks on The New York Times's best-seller list. Edwards chose her subjects based on the themes she believed they personified. She died of lung cancer at a senior living facility in Beverly Hills, California.
Throughout her life, Byatt prioritized writing above all else. Her career began in 1964 with the publication of her first novel, and she went on to write a remarkable tetralogy of novels. Byatt's most acclaimed work was 'Possession,' a literary detective novel that combined 19th-century letters, poems, fables, and journals. The book showcased her genius and became a commercial success. Byatt was known for her intellectualism and her deep love for the fine arts, which was evident in her writing. She also excelled in the short story form. Byatt's childhood was greatly influenced by books and reading, and she developed a fascination with myths and fairy tales. Her immersion in myth later found expression in her retellings of ancient myths. Byatt was a tireless traveler and had a deep knowledge of European literature. She was also known for her generosity to younger writers and her ability to form lasting friendships. She was appointed CBE in 1990 and made a dame in 1999. [508e2ae4]
Anne Edwards was a prolific biographer who wrote extensively about notable figures in the entertainment industry. Her books, including biographies of Vivien Leigh and Katharine Hepburn, were best-sellers and showcased her talent for capturing the lives of iconic individuals. Edwards' works spanned various genres, including novels, children's books, memoirs, and an autobiography. She had a successful career as a screenwriter and novelist, with her biography of Vivien Leigh becoming particularly popular. Edwards' subjects were chosen based on the themes they represented, and her books provided readers with a deep insight into the lives of these influential figures. She passed away at the age of 96 from lung cancer at a senior living facility in Beverly Hills, California. [070603ec]