Today, I’d like to introduce someone you may already know quite well — J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series. She’s not only famous for her magical world but also for being an introvert. Along with behind-the-scenes stories of how Harry Potter was born, I’d like to share a bit about who she is — and I hope you’ll feel something resonate within you.
The World of Harry Potter
Harry Potter needs no introduction these days. It’s more than just a book series — it’s become a global phenomenon, branching into films, stage plays, video games, and even a theme park at Universal Studios Japan. Much like Studio Ghibli, its magic feels woven into everyday life here in Japan.
I first encountered the story through the movies. I especially love the earlier films 😌 — that unmistakable “pure fantasy” feeling, the atmosphere, the air of it all… I can’t quite explain it. Watching them brings back a childlike sense of wonder, and I can’t help feeling excited and uplifted. It almost made me believe I could hop on a broom and fly through the sky 😅
I’m sure you have your favorite film, book, or scene, too 🪄
An Introvert Who Faced Many Struggles
J.K. Rowling has openly described herself as introverted. Some well-known stories about her include the following (based on sources like her official website https://www.jkrowling.com/ )
- She values her alone time for creativity
She’s known for avoiding social contact while working. She once said that her ideas come when she’s alone in a quiet place. - Lost in Her Own World of Books
Since childhood, she’s loved reading and described herself as a “classic bookworm.” She enjoyed spending time in her imagination, living alongside the characters in her head. - Overwhelmed by crowds and sudden attention
Even after Harry Potter became a global sensation, she avoided parties and public events as much as possible, and tried to keep media appearances to a minimum. Fame never seemed comfortable for her.
As a textbook introvert, the path to success wasn’t easy — it wasn’t until after she turned 30 that Harry Potter became a worldwide hit.
When her child was still very young, she went through a divorce. She was living in poverty, with almost no savings, relying on government support just to get by. She also experienced depression during that time.
And yet, in the midst of it all, she kept writing Harry Potter — for about five years.
Even after finally completing the manuscript, it was rejected by several publishers who thought it wouldn’t sell. But at the last publishing house, it was the publisher’s young daughter who said,”I want to read more!”
That one comment led to the book’s release — and the rest is history.
(She’s said there were many more struggles that can’t all be told here)
That kind of perseverance — it’s truly inspiring. It feels like one of the quiet strengths introverts often carry, don’t you think? Like a phoenix rising from the ashes 🐦🔥
A Quiet, Powerful Perspective
I believe her introverted nature also shows up in her writing. Her stories are filled with emotional depth, quiet insight, and characters who wrestle with inner conflict.
— Hermione, Snape, Neville… and of course, Harry himself.
He lost his parents at a young age, was taken in by relatives who treated him coldly — spending his days living under the stairs in a cupboard. He often wondered, “Why is this happening to me?”
Even after making close friends like Ron and Hermione, he still carried a quiet sadness — a loneliness that came from not having his parents, and a hesitation to share the truth of his past.
And yet, through the world of magic, he slowly found a place where he belonged…
Would you say Harry is an introvert or an extrovert?
To me, he’s clearly an introvert — thoughtful, reflective, full of questions 😅
The Harry Potter Films
Here’s a look back at the Harry Potter films. They bring the fantasy world to life in a way the books alone can’t, with rich visuals and immersive sound. And there’s something touching about watching the actors grow up through the series — it stirs a kind of parental fondness as you watch them mature 😌
So — what do you think of J.K. Rowling?
I hope this little piece helped you discover a new side of her as an introvert. And maybe — just maybe — the next time you return to the world of Harry Potter, you’ll find a new way to experience it 💫
