Joanne Harris (born 3 July 1964) is a British author best known for her novel Chocolat, which was adapted into a successful film starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. Born in Barnsley, Yorkshire, to a French mother and an English father, Harris grew up in a bilingual household that fostered her love for both language and storytelling. She studied Modern and Mediaeval Languages at St Catharine's College, Cambridge, and later taught French at various schools before becoming a full-time writer.
Her writing is often characterised by its rich, sensory detail and exploration of themes such as identity, magic, and the conflicts between tradition and change. Her work spans multiple genres, including contemporary fiction, historical novels, and fantasy, showcasing her versatility as a writer. Chocolat (1999), her most famous work, is set in a small French village and tells the story of Vianne Rocher, who opens a chocolate shop during Lent, challenging the town's rigid social norms. The novel’s blend of magical realism, culinary delights, and cultural commentary captured the imaginations of readers worldwide.
She has continued to write prolifically, producing a series of novels that revisit characters from Chocolat, as well as standalone works that explore a wide range of subjects. Her books often feature strong, complex female protagonists and a deep connection to folklore and myth, reflecting her interest in the power of stories and the ways they shape our lives.
Most Popular Books by Joanne Harris:
- Chocolat (1999) - A novel about a woman who opens a chocolate shop in a conservative French village, stirring up passions and rivalries. Adapted into an Oscar-nominated film.
- Blackberry Wine (2000) - A magical realist novel that explores the memories and secrets contained in a bottle of homemade wine.
- Five Quarters of the Orange (2001) - Set in wartime France, this novel delves into the complexities of memory, guilt, and forgiveness.
- The Lollipop Shoes (2007) - A sequel to Chocolat, this novel follows Vianne Rocher as she tries to escape her past and create a new life for herself and her daughters.
- Blueeyedboy (2010) - A psychological thriller written in the form of an online journal, exploring the dark side of virtual identities.
- The Gospel of Loki (2014) - A fantasy novel that retells Norse mythology from the perspective of Loki, the trickster god.
- The Strawberry Thief (2019) - The third book in the Chocolat series, returning to the village of Lansquenet-sous-Tannes as new conflicts arise.
Joanne Harris's work continues to enchant and challenge readers with its unique blend of realism and fantasy, its deep emotional resonance, and its exploration of the human condition. Her novels have been translated into over 50 languages, making her one of Britain’s most internationally acclaimed authors.