Arthur Hailey
Arthur Frederick Hailey was a British/Canadian novelist who wrote several best-sellers, including Hotel and Airport, that have been translated into over 40 languages. His books are mostly situated in a specific industry or setting, giving readers an in-depth look at the inner workings of the particular environment.
Quick Facts
- Best known for his "industry" novels which take a deep dive into one particular industry.
- His works have been translated into 40 languages.
- He wrote the novel "Airport" which was then made into a blockbuster movie in 1970.
- Published 11 novels that sold over 170 million copies worldwide.
- Started writing at a very young age but didn't publish his first novel till his mid-30s.
Background
Hailey was born in 1920 in Luton, England. His father was a factory worker and his mother a housewife. Despite being a bright student, Hailey had to leave school at age 14 due to family financial constraints, and he started work in a garage. He later served as a Flight Lieutenant in the Royal Air Force during World War II, an experience that he drew on in writing his first novel. In 1947, he immigrated to Canada where he worked for a trade magazine and began writing. His first novel, The Final Diagnosis, was published in 1959 and was set in the world of a large hospital. His 1965 novel, Hotel, was a number one New York Times bestseller and was made into a successful TV series. He went on to have a successful career, writing several more novels all in different industries, using his trademark detailing of procedures in a particular profession as key plot devices. He passed away in 2004 at the age of 84.
Writing Style and Impact
Hailey's novels are popular for their in-depth descriptions and precise detailing, which showcase a deep understanding of business sectors, including real estate, banking, aviation, and pharmaceuticals. His writing is characterized by comprehensive research, offering readers insights into the complexities of various industries. His works have been an inspiration to many, making industry nuances accessible to the common reader through the power of storytelling.
Notable Works
- Hotel (1965)
- Airport (1968)
- Wheels (1971)
- The Moneychangers (1975)
- Overload (1979)