Date: 19th September 2008

Edinburgh Honours Rowling


JK Rowling is to be honoured by the city where she created her world-famous wizard books.

The writer - who penned the famous boy wizard novels in the city - will receive the Edinburgh Award, which recognises an individual's outstanding achievements and contribution to the city.

The author, who has sold 400 million books worldwide, said: "Edinburgh is very much home for me and is the place where Harry evolved over seven books and many, many hours of writing in its cafes."

She is a tremendous asset to the city, not least for her writing prowess but also for her philanthropy and the vast amount of support she gives to numerous charities George Grubb
Edinburgh's lord provost

"So much has happened to me both professionally and personally since I moved here nearly 15 years ago, that to receive this recognition is particularly meaningful and special."

Source: Press Release