Written by: Isabel Sanchez

Harold Robbins: The Master of Bestselling Novels

With over 750 million copies sold in 32 languages, Harold Robbins is undoubtedly one of the bestselling writers of all time. His novels have captivated readers worldwide with their blend of history, melodrama, sex, and glossy high society, earning him a reputation as a master storyteller.

Early Life

Born Harold Rubin on May 21, 1916, in New York City, Robbins was the son of Frances Fannie Smith and Charles Rubin, welleducated Jewish emigrants from the Russian Empire. Despite his humble beginnings, Robbins would go on to live a life far more dramatic than any of his fictional characters.

Rise to Fame

Robbins' writing career began with his first novel, Never Love a Stranger, published in 1948. However, it was his second novel, The Dream Merchants, published in 1949, that really put him on the literary map. This novel about the American film industry, from its beginning to the sound era, showcased Robbins' unique ability to weave together history, drama, and romance.

Major Works

• The Carpetbaggers (1961) - A novel featuring a protagonist loosely based on Howard Hughes, Bill Lear, Harry Cohn, and Louis B. Mayer, which takes the reader on a journey from New York to California, exploring the prosperity of the aeronautical industry and the glamour of Hollywood.
• A Stone for Danny Fisher (1952) - A novel adapted into the 1958 motion picture King Creole, starring Elvis Presley.
• The Raiders (1995) - The sequel to The Carpetbaggers, which continued to captivate readers with its blend of drama, romance, and intrigue.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Robbins' life was marked by drama and controversy, much like his novels. He dropped out of high school at 15 to enlist in the U.S. Navy, where he claimed to have served on a submarine that was torpedoed, leaving him as the sole survivor. However, this claim was later disputed. Robbins also worked a variety of jobs, including errand boy, bookie's runner, and inventory clerk in a grocery store, before eventually becoming an executive at Universal Pictures.

Influence on Modern Society

Robbins' novels have not only captivated readers but have also had a significant impact on popular culture. His work has inspired numerous film adaptations, including King Creole and The Carpetbaggers, and has influenced generations of writers and filmmakers.

Legacy

Harold Robbins' legacy as a master storyteller and bestselling author continues to inspire readers and writers alike. His unique blend of history, drama, and romance has left an indelible mark on the literary world, cementing his place as one of the greatest writers of all time.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Robbins worked at Universal Pictures from 1940 to 1957, rising from a clerk to an executive.
• He was known for his lavish lifestyle, which included owning a private plane and a yacht.
• Robbins was married six times and had three children.

With his incredible writing skills, fascinating life story, and lasting impact on popular culture, Harold Robbins remains an iconic figure in the literary world, continuing to captivate readers and inspire writers to this day.