7 Inspiring Stories of Bestseller Authors and Their Rejection Journeys

Every aspiring writer dreams of seeing their work on bestseller lists, but the path to literary success is often paved with rejection. Many of the most celebrated authors faced numerous setbacks before their stories found their way into readers' hearts. Here are seven inspiring examples of bestselling authors and the number of times their manuscripts were rejected before achieving greatness.

1. J.K. Rowling – Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone

Before J.K. Rowling became a household name with the Harry Potter series, her manuscript for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone faced rejection after rejection. In fact, Rowling was turned down by 12 different publishers before Bloomsbury took a chance on her. An insider at Bloomsbury reportedly decided to publish the book after his eight-year-old daughter fell in love with the first chapter. Today, Harry Potter has sold over 500 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 80 languages.

2. Stephen King – Carrie

Stephen King is now one of the most prolific and bestselling authors of all time, but his first novel, Carrie, was initially rejected 30 times. Facing financial difficulties and personal struggles, King considered giving up writing altogether. However, a friend encouraged him to persevere, and finally, Carrie was published by Doubleday in 1974. The book became a massive success, launching King’s illustrious career and leading to numerous adaptations in film and other media.

3. Agatha Christie – The Mysterious Affair at Styles

Agatha Christie, known as the "Queen of Mystery," faced her own share of rejections. Her first novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, was rejected by several publishers before being accepted by John Lane, the publisher of The Bodley Head, in 1920. This book introduced the world to the beloved detective Hercule Poirot. Christie went on to write 66 detective novels, 14 short story collections, and several plays, becoming one of the best-selling authors in history.

4. James Joyce – Dubliners

James Joyce is now celebrated as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century, but his collection of short stories, Dubliners, faced significant hurdles. Joyce submitted the manuscript to multiple publishers and faced numerous rejections over a span of several years. It wasn’t until 1914 that the collection was finally published by Grant Richards. Dubliners is now hailed for its profound portrayal of life in Dublin and has influenced countless writers.

5. George Orwell – Animal Farm

George Orwell’s Animal Farm, a powerful allegory about totalitarianism, also encountered rejection. Before finding a publisher, Orwell faced skepticism from multiple publishers who were unsure about the book’s potential. It was first published in 1945 by Secker & Warburg, and despite the initial challenges, it became a critical and commercial success, solidifying Orwell’s place in literary history.

6. Harper Lee – To Kill a Mockingbird

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is a beloved classic that addresses profound social issues. However, before its publication, Lee faced numerous rejections from publishers who didn’t recognize its potential. After about 30 rejections, the novel was finally accepted by J.B. Lippincott & Co. in 1960. The book won the Pulitzer Prize and has become a staple in educational curricula worldwide, earning Harper Lee a permanent place in literary canon.

7. Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel) – And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street

Before becoming a children’s literature icon, Dr. Seuss faced a series of rejections. His first book, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street, was rejected 27 times before it was finally published in 1937. Today, Dr. Seuss is celebrated for his imaginative stories and whimsical illustrations, with books like The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham continuing to delight children and adults alike.

Conclusion

The journeys of these seven bestselling authors serve as powerful reminders that rejection is often a stepping stone to success. Persistence, resilience, and unwavering belief in one’s work can ultimately lead to remarkable achievements. If you're facing rejection in your writing journey, take inspiration from these authors who turned their setbacks into literary triumphs. Keep writing, keep believing, and your story might just be the next bestseller.