Diana Wynne Jones
Full Name and Common Aliases
Diana Wynne Jones was a renowned British author, celebrated for her imaginative and influential works in the fantasy genre. She was often affectionately referred to simply as Diana by her readers and peers.
Birth and Death Dates
Diana Wynne Jones was born on August 16, 1934, and she passed away on March 26, 2011.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Diana Wynne Jones was a British author, primarily known for her contributions to fantasy literature. Her career spanned several decades, during which she wrote numerous novels, short stories, and essays that captivated readers of all ages.
Early Life and Background
Diana Wynne Jones was born in London, England, to parents who were both educators. Her early life was marked by the upheaval of World War II, which led her family to relocate multiple times. This transient lifestyle fostered a deep love for storytelling and books, as Diana often turned to literature for comfort and escape. She attended St Anne's College, Oxford, where she studied English and was taught by notable figures such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. This academic environment further fueled her passion for fantasy and storytelling.
Major Accomplishments
Diana Wynne Jones's career was distinguished by her ability to weave complex narratives that appealed to both children and adults. She received numerous accolades for her work, including the prestigious Guardian Children's Fiction Prize in 1978 for her novel "Charmed Life." Her ability to blend humor, magic, and intricate plots earned her a devoted following and critical acclaim. In 1999, she was awarded the Mythopoeic Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement, recognizing her significant contributions to the fantasy genre.
Notable Works or Actions
Among Diana Wynne Jones's most celebrated works is the "Chrestomanci" series, which explores parallel worlds and magical adventures. The series is beloved for its rich world-building and engaging characters. Another standout work is "Howl's Moving Castle," a novel that gained international fame and was adapted into an acclaimed animated film by Studio Ghibli. Her other notable works include "The Dalemark Quartet," "The Tough Guide to Fantasyland," and "The Merlin Conspiracy." Each of these works showcases her unique ability to blend fantasy with wit and insight.
Impact and Legacy
Diana Wynne Jones's impact on the fantasy genre is profound and enduring. Her innovative storytelling and imaginative worlds have inspired countless readers and writers. She is often credited with paving the way for modern fantasy literature, influencing authors such as Neil Gaiman, Philip Pullman, and J.K. Rowling. Her works continue to be celebrated for their originality, humor, and depth, ensuring her place as a cornerstone of fantasy literature.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Diana Wynne Jones is widely quoted and remembered for her ability to articulate the magic and wonder of fantasy in a way that resonates with readers of all ages. Her quotes often reflect her keen understanding of human nature, the complexities of life, and the power of imagination. Her legacy endures not only through her written works but also through the countless readers and writers she has inspired. Diana Wynne Jones's contributions to literature have left an indelible mark, making her a beloved and quoted figure in the world of fantasy.
Quotes by Diana Wynne Jones
Diana Wynne Jones's insights on:
She stood for a moment looking out at a slowly moving view of the hills, watching heather slide past underneath the door, feeling the wind blow her wispy hair, and listening to the rumble and grind of the big black stones as the castle moved.
It seems that Fate has decreed that I live through my entire daydream in reality!
Mr. Lynn gave her one of his considering looks. “People are strange,” he said. “Usually they’re much stranger than you think. Start from there and you’ll never be unpleasantly surprised. Do you fancy doughnuts?
That’s magic I admire, using something that exists anyway and turning it round into a curse.
I hate dialect. It gets in the way. If there is a need for dialect, you can render it quite easily by reproducing the rythm of that form of speech. Then you don’t need to bother with silly spellings.
Sophie listened and felt sad. Interesting things did seem to happen, but always to somebody else.
All I wanted to do was sit down and read a book, she thought, and I come home to a flood!
She had a silly impulse to add, But she was alive an hour ago! And she stopped herself, because death is like that: people are alive until they die.
In fact, Cat was fairly sure Tonino was feeling just the way Cat had felt himself when he first came to Chrestomanci Castle, and Cat could not get over the annoyance of having someone have feelings that were his.