James Patterson

State: Florida

James Patterson is one of the most prolific and best-selling authors in the world, known for his fast-paced thrillers and diverse range of books spanning nearly every age group and genre. Born on March 22, 1947, in Newburgh, New York, Patterson earned a master’s degree from Vanderbilt University and worked in advertising before turning to writing full-time. His first novel, The Thomas Berryman Number, won the Edgar Award for Best First Novel, but it was his Alex Cross series that catapulted him to global fame. Over the decades, Patterson has written or co-written hundreds of books, including thrillers, romance, nonfiction, middle grade adventures, and picture books. He’s known for his brief chapters, cinematic pacing, and broad appeal. A passionate advocate for literacy, he has donated millions of dollars to libraries, schools, and independent bookstores. Despite his massive success, Patterson continues to write for both adults and children, often collaborating with other writers to release more than a dozen books each year.

Genres: Adventure, Contemporary, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Nonfiction, Picture Book, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller

Audiences: Adult, All Ages, Children's, Early Reader, Middle Grade, Young Adult