Lois Lowry | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 29, 2025

Who is Lois Lowry?

Lois Lowry, born on March 20, 1937, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a distinguished American author renowned for her contributions to children's literature. She published her debut novel, A Summer to Die, in 1977, a poignant story that explored themes of loss, drawing inspiration from her own childhood experiences. Over the years, Lowry demonstrated her versatility by crafting a myriad of works, from the whimsical tales of Anastasia Krupnik to the hauntingly thought-provoking narrative of The Giver. This exceptional range has won her widespread acclaim and a dedicated readership, solidifying her status as one of the most influential figures in contemporary children's literature.

Throughout her prolific career, Lowry has received numerous accolades, including two prestigious Newbery Medals. Her 1989 novel, Number the Stars, which depicts the plight of Jewish families during World War II, resonates with readers for its bravery and compassion. Four years later, The Giver, set in a dystopian society, challenged conventions and sparked discussions on the complexities of memory, freedom, and choice. The book's significant impact led to its adaptation into a film in 2014, further broadening Lowry's audience and cementing her legacy as an author who engages with profound themes while remaining accessible to young readers.

Early Life and Education

Lois Lowry was born Lois Ann Hammersberg on March 20, 1937, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Growing up as a shy and introverted child, she developed a profound love for reading, which inspired her to pursue a career in writing from a young age. The daughter of a dentist and Army officer, her childhood was marked by frequent relocations due to her father's military service. This unique upbringing saw her spend some of her formative years in Japan, enriching her perspective on different cultures and experiences.

After her family settled in New York City, Lowry graduated from high school, paving her way to higher education. She attended Brown University for two years before leaving to marry naval officer Donald Lowry at 19. The couple relocated frequently because of his military commitments, during which they had four children. Eventually, while living in Maine, Lowry returned to her studies and completed her bachelor's degree at the University of Southern Maine in the early 1970s, setting the stage for her illustrious writing career.

Career Beginnings with Marriage and Children

Lois Lowry's journey as a writer began amid significant personal milestones. At the age of 19, she married naval officer Donald Lowry, which took her on a path of frequent relocations due to his military career. During their marriage, they welcomed four children: daughters Alix and Kristin, as well as sons Grey and Ben. This experience of motherhood, coupled with the challenges of mobility, undoubtedly influenced her writing. Lowry's commitment to her family was unwavering, but it also fueled her desire to turn her personal experiences into relatable stories for children.

After years dedicated to raising her children, Lowry decided to pursue her college education and completed her bachelor's degree at the University of Southern Maine in the early 1970s. It was a transformative period for her, as the lessons learned and the stories lived during her years as a mother and military spouse served as rich inspiration for her writing. In 1977, she published her first novel, "A Summer to Die," which not only marked her entry into the literary world but also allowed her to process the profound grief of losing her older sister. This blend of personal loss and motherhood would become a consistent theme in Lowry’s poignant storytelling.

Award-Winning Novels and Achievements

Lois Lowry's remarkable career as an author has been marked by a series of award-winning novels that resonate with readers of all ages. She gained widespread acclaim for her 1989 historical novel, "Number the Stars," which tells the poignant story of a young girl's bravery during the Nazi occupation of Denmark. This compelling narrative not only captivates audiences but also educates them about the harsh realities of war and the power of friendship. Lowry was honored with the prestigious Newbery Award for this work, cementing her status as an important voice in children's literature.

In 1993, Lowry achieved even greater recognition with her groundbreaking novel "The Giver." Delving into themes of dystopia and the complexities of human emotions, the story follows a young boy named Jonas who discovers the dark truths behind his utopian society. While some criticized its themes of violence and controlled existence, others praised its profound insights. "The Giver" also earned Lowry a Newbery Award in 1994 and has since been adapted into a successful film, bringing her powerful narratives to an even broader audience. Throughout her career, Lowry has continued to explore challenging themes in her writing, consistently engaging young readers with her thoughtful and impactful stories.

Personal Loss and Resilience

Lois Lowry faced profound personal loss in 1995 when her son, Grey, a U.S. Air Force pilot, tragically died in a plane crash. This devastating event left a deep impact not only on her heart but also on her creative spirit. Grey had a young daughter, Nadine, who was just a toddler at the time of her father's passing. In the midst of her grief, Lowry found a way to channel her emotions into a meaningful project, intending to create a memoir for her granddaughter that would help preserve the memories of her father.

As she sifted through family photos and memories for the memoir, titled "Looking Back", Lowry experienced a transformative reflection on her own life. The process of remembrance allowed her to face her sorrow while celebrating the joys and lessons shared within her family. This endeavor exemplified her resilience and ability to find strength through her storytelling. Lowry’s work continues to resonate with readers, offering inspiration through her themes of loss, love, and the importance of memories.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Lois Lowry married naval officer Donald Lowry at the young age of 19. The demands of Donald's military career meant the family would frequently relocate, bringing both challenges and adventures. During their marriage, they welcomed four children into their lives: daughters Alix and Kristin, along with sons Grey and Ben. This blend of diverse experiences not only shaped her life but also provided rich material for her future writing. As a mother, Lowry balanced her family responsibilities while nurturing her passion for storytelling, which eventually led to a successful writing career.

After enduring the dissolution of her marriage, Lowry found strength in her role as a dedicated mother. Her children became a driving force behind her creativity, inspiring characters and stories that resonated with young readers. Tragically, Lowry faced profound personal loss in 1995 when her son Grey, a U.S. Air Force pilot, died in a plane crash. This heart-wrenching experience fueled her desire to write the memoir "Looking Back", a poignant tribute to her son and a means to preserve their shared memories for her granddaughter, Nadine. Despite the challenges, Lowry's commitment to her children and her passion for writing remain central to her identity as a beloved author.

Net Worth and Earning: Writing Success and Income

Lois Lowry, celebrated for her remarkable contributions to children's literature, has amassed considerable wealth through her writing career. With an extensive bibliography that includes beloved titles such as "Number the Stars" and "The Giver", Lowry's work has not only garnered numerous prestigious awards, including two Newbery Medals, but has also achieved commercial success. Her books have sold millions of copies worldwide, contributing significantly to her net worth. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, estimates suggest that her earnings from book sales, adaptations, and licensing deals play a significant role in her financial achievements.

In addition to her initial success in literature, Lowry has expanded her income through the successful adaptation of her works into film and television. The much-anticipated 2014 movie adaptation of "The Giver" brought her further recognition and boosted her income as a result of box office success and related merchandise. This diversification of income sources highlights the ongoing appeal of her stories across different media, ensuring that Lois Lowry continues to remain a prominent figure in the literary world and beyond. Moreover, her ability to connect with readers through her engaging narratives and relatable characters further cements her legacy and enhances her financial standing.

FAQs

Key Facts About Lois Lowry

What is Lois Lowry known for?
Lois Lowry is a prolific American author of children's and young adult literature. She is best known for works like The Giver and Number the Stars, which tackle serious themes in a way that is accessible to young readers, earning her a beloved status in children's literature.

When was Lois Lowry born?
Lois Lowry was born on March 20, 1937, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her multicultural upbringing and various life experiences have heavily influenced her writing style and thematic choices.

What notable awards has Lois Lowry received?
Lois Lowry has won multiple prestigious awards, including two Newbery Medals. She received her first award for Number the Stars in 1990 and her second for The Giver in 1994, recognizing her outstanding contributions to children's literature.

What inspired Lois Lowry's writing?
Lowry’s writing is often inspired by her personal experiences, familial relationships, and historical events. The loss of her sister to illness and her experiences during World War II have significantly influenced her narratives, lending authenticity and emotional depth to her stories.

What are some of Lois Lowry's well-known books?
Some of her most notable works include A Summer to Die, Anastasia Krupnik, The Giver, and Number the Stars. These books highlight her versatility, ranging from lighthearted tales to profound dramas.

Has any of Lois Lowry's work been adapted into films?
Yes, her acclaimed novel The Giver was adapted into a feature film in 2014. The movie starred Brenton Thwaites, Jeff Bridges, and Meryl Streep, introducing her thought-provoking story to a broader audience.

Where does Lois Lowry currently live?
Lois Lowry currently resides in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She continues to write and engage with her readers while also pursuing photography, an interest that complements her literary work.

What series did Lois Lowry create for younger readers?
Lowry created the Gooney Bird Greene series, featuring a quirky and adventurous elementary school girl. This series appeals to younger audiences with its humor and sense of adventure, showcasing Lowry's versatility in writing for different age groups.