James Clavell – British-American novelist of the 20th century, author of Shōgun and Tai-Pan, master of sweeping historical sagas adapted into cult TV series. His novels combine adventure with a deep fascination for Eastern cultures. Clavell created the “Asian Saga,” which shaped Western perceptions of Japan and China.
✨ Born in England, he later made his career in the US. ⚔️ Was a Japanese POW in Changi during WWII – the basis for King Rat. 🎥 Wrote the screenplay for The Great Escape. 📺 Shōgun (1980) became a global television phenomenon. 📚 Blended real historical events with fictional characters. 🌏 Called himself a “citizen of the world.” 🖋 Joked he wrote “for money,” yet created timeless epics. 🏮 Introduced millions of Western readers to Japanese culture and business ethics. 🎭 Tai-Pan was adapted into a film, though less successful than Shōgun. 🤔 Curious: once quipped that his novels rival Japanese chronicles in length. 😄 Funny: as a child, he dreamed of being a pirate – and fulfilled it on the page.