Jean M. Auel

Jean M. Auel is an American writer known for her Earth’s Children series of novels, a prehistoric fiction series set in Europe during the Upper Paleolithic era. The series started with the publication of “The Clan of the Cave Bear” in 1980, which was a huge success and became a bestseller.

Jean Marie Auel was born on February 18, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois. She studied at the University of Portland and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1976. Before becoming a writer, she worked as a technical writer and a credit manager. After the success of her first novel, Auel continued the Earth’s Children series with several more books, including “The Valley of Horses,” “The Mammoth Hunters,” “The Plains of Passage,” “The Shelters of Stone,” and “The Land of Painted Caves.” Her novels are known for their detailed research into prehistoric times, including the flora, fauna, and cultures of the time. The series follows the life of a young Cro-Magnon woman named Ayla, who is raised by Neanderthals and must navigate the challenges of life in a prehistoric world.

Jean M. Auel’s books have been translated into numerous languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. While she faced some criticism for the accuracy of her portrayals of prehistoric life, her novels have been praised for their imaginative storytelling and vivid depictions of ancient cultures. She passed away on March 28, 2019, at the age of 82. Her legacy lives on through her Earth’s Children series, which continues to captivate readers with its unique blend of historical research and compelling storytelling.