Ian Fleming ​

Ian Lancaster Fleming was a British writer, journalist, and naval intelligence officer who is best known for his James Bond series of spy novels. Fleming came up with the character in 1953 while writing his first book, Casino Royale. His James Bond book series inspired a number of films.

Quick Facts ​

• Created the famous character James Bond 007.
• His James Bond series has sold over 100 million copies worldwide.
• Most of his James Bond novels were adapted into films, games, comics and television series.
• Worked for Britain's Naval Intelligence Division during World War II.
• His James Bond character was influenced by his own experiences and people he met during his work in intelligence.
• Many of his novels were also published posthumously.

Background ​

Fleming was born into a wealthy and influential family in 1908, in Mayfair, London, England. He was educated at Eton College and later studied at the Universities of Munich and Geneva. Prior to the start of World War II, he worked as a journalist and stockbroker. During the war, he served in the Naval Intelligence Division of the Royal Navy, where he achieved the rank of Commander. After the war, he became a writer and journalist, and in 1953, he published his first James Bond novel, Casino Royale. Fleming's Bond novels became very popular and inspired a long-running series of films. He continued to write and published a total of 12 Bond novels and two short story collections. Fleming died in 1964.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Fleming's writing style is known for its vivid descriptions, realistic action scenes, and intricate plotting. His work is considered a staple in the spy thriller genre. Fleming has been praised for his ability to create compelling characters and his astute understanding of the geopolitical landscape of his time. His James Bond series not only gained him worldwide fame, but also revitalized and reshaped the spy genre.

Notable Works ​

• Casino Royale (1953)
• Live and Let Die (1954)
• Moonraker (1955)
• Diamonds Are Forever (1956)
• From Russia, With Love (1957)
• Goldfinger (1959)
• Thunderball (1961)
• You Only Live Twice (1964)
• The Spy Who Loved Me (1962)
• On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1963)