Reading lists and articles featuring Wilbur Smith

Wilbur Smith Biography

Early Life

Wilbur Addison Smith, born on 9 January 1933 in Ndola, Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia), was the son of Elfreda and Herbert James Smith. Named after aviator Wilbur Wright, his father, a tough metal worker, established a cattle ranch on the banks of the Kafue River. Despite his father’s rugged lifestyle, Smith’s mother instilled in him a love for books, shaping his early interest in fiction.

• Born: 9 January 1933
• Birthplace: Ndola, Northern Rhodesia

Education

Smith attended Cordwalles Preparatory School and later Michaelhouse for high school. Despite feeling out of place, his passion for reading thrived. An English master at Michaelhouse recognized his talent, guiding him in literary pursuits. Smith’s desire to become a journalist yielded to his father’s advice, leading him to study accountancy at Rhodes University.

• Boarding School: Cordwalles Preparatory School, Natal
• University: Rhodes University, Grahamstown

Accountant and Novelist

Initially pursuing a career as a tax accountant, Smith’s writing journey began when he sold his first story, “On Flinder’s Face,” in 1963. His breakthrough novel, When the Lion Feeds, marked a turning point, enabling him to quit his job and embrace a full-time writing career. Over the years, he authored numerous best-sellers, delving into historical fiction with a focus on Southern Africa.

• Published First Novel: When the Lion Feeds
• Published Total Books: 49
• Total Copies Sold: 140 million

Novelist: The Courtney and Ballantyne Series

Smith’s literary journey unfolded through various series, including the Courtney and Ballantyne families. From The Burning Shore to The Leopard Hunts in Darkness, he explored historical narratives, captivating readers with tales of adventure, war, and family dynamics.

• Series: The Courtney Family
• Series: The Ballantyne Family

Later Career

In 2012, Smith transitioned to HarperCollins, collaborating with co-writers to meet the demands of his eager fan base. Moving to Bonnier Zaffre in 2017, he continued producing books at an accelerated pace. His autobiography, On Leopard Rock, offered insights into his life and career.

• Joined HarperCollins: December 2012
• Moved to Bonnier Zaffre: 2017

Awards

In 2002, Wilbur Smith received the Inaugural Sport Shooting Ambassador Award from the World Forum on the Future of Sport Shooting Activities, acknowledging his contributions beyond literature.

• Award: Inaugural Sport Shooting Ambassador Award (2002)