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Birth
He was born in the town of Saint Columb Minor, Cornwall , England. His father was a school master and his mother fought for women's rights. -
First Novel
At the age of 12 William attempted to write his first book, though failing to do so. This failure frustrated him causing him to bully his peers. -
Collage
After primary school William attended Brasenose College at Oxford University. He studied english literature, despite his father wanting him to become a scientist. -
Teaching
After graduating William would take up a teaching position. It was this experience that would lead to inspiration for the Lord of Flies. -
Navy
For most of the 6 years after joining William spent his time on a boat. He fought in WWII battling at see and even taking command of multiple ships. -
Publishing of Lord of the Flies
After 21 rejections his most acclaimed novel would be published. The novel tells the story of a group of kids stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. -
Royal Society of Literature
Only a year after publication Lord of the Flies would earn William a place in this honor society. He would also receive the title Commander of the British Empire years later. -
First movie
Though not till after William had retired a movie was created about lord of the flies. Made by Peter Brook the film was an adaptation of the famous novel. -
Nobel Prize
William would receive the Nobel prize for literature in 1983. He would also be knighted 5 years later by Queen Elizabeth. -
Death
William would die of a heart attack at the age of 83. Having spent the last years of his life writing at his house were he lived with his wife.