Jean Marie Auel is an acclaimed American novelist, best known for her series of historical fiction novels, Earth's Children. She was born in Chicago, United States, in 1936, to Neil Solomon Untinen, a house painter, and Martha Wirtanen, a homemaker. Auel's real name is Jean Marie Untinen, and she is the second of five siblings. She is sometimes mistakenly associated with owls due to the pronunciation of her surname, which she finds awkward.
Before publishing her books, Auel conducted extensive research on the Ice Age to ensure accuracy in her writing. Her dedication to factual information has earned her recognition from renowned scientists, archaeologists, and anthropologists worldwide. Her novels, particularly Earth's Children, explore the interactions between Cro-Magnon people and Neanderthals during prehistoric Europe. The series has been a global success, selling over 34 million copies and translated into multiple languages.
Auel's literary career is marked by her meticulous attention to detail and dedication to research. Her novels, set in prehistoric times, provide a rich and vivid depiction of human life during that era. The Earth's Children series has captivated readers with its compelling storytelling and historical accuracy. Auel's work has left a lasting impact on the literary world and continues to inspire readers and scholars alike. She currently resides in Portland, Oregon, with her husband, Ray Bernard Auel, and their five children.
Jean M. Auel's novels have earned her a reputation as a world-class author, with her books selling over 45 million copies worldwide as of 2010. She attended the University of Portland and earned an MBA in 1976. Auel's dedication to her craft has been recognized with honorary degrees from the University of Maine, the University of Portland, and the Mount Vernon College for Women. Her work has earned her the respect of the scientific and academic communities, and she continues to inspire readers with her vivid portrayals of prehistoric life.