Best-selling author Sophie Kinsella, known for her beloved Shopaholic series, has left an indelible mark on readers worldwide. Her family announced her passing on Wednesday, December 10, sharing that she "died peacefully, with her final days filled with her true loves: family, music, warmth, Christmas, and joy." The message, posted on her Instagram account, expressed the profound loss felt by those who knew and loved her: "We can't imagine what life will be like without her radiance and love of life."
Sophie Kinsella was not just a favorite among book lovers; she had her share of celebrity fans too. In a 2014 interview, she shared a delightful moment when she discovered that Hollywood star Joan Cusack was a fan of her work. "It was very sweet when I was working on the Shopaholic film and Joan Cusack said she was a big fan," Kinsella recalled. "That made my day, because I am the hugest fan of Joan Cusack."
“It was very sweet when I was working on the Shopaholic film and Joan Cusack said she was a big fan," Kinsella said. "That made my day, because I am the hugest fan of Joan Cusack.”
Cusack, known for her roles in films like School of Rock, played Becky Bloomwood's mother in the movie adaptation of Kinsella's novels, bringing a special connection to the author's work.
Kinsella's writing career was nothing short of extraordinary. Her books, including the Shopaholic series, have sold around 45 million copies in over 60 countries and been translated into more than 40 languages. Despite her illness, Kinsella embraced her life and work with courage and gratitude. Her family noted her appreciation for her success and the love she received, stating, "Sophie counted herself truly blessed – to have such wonderful family and friends, and to have had the extraordinary success of her writing career."
Tributes have poured in from friends, fans, and colleagues. Her agents at The Soho Agency, Araminta Whitley and Marina de Pass, described her as "a once-in-a-lifetime author and friend." They praised her ability to craft emotionally resonant stories that entertained readers across the globe.
Kinsella's legacy includes not just the Shopaholic series but also more than a dozen other titles, some published under her real name, Madeleine Wickham. She is survived by her husband Henry and their five children, leaving behind a legacy of joy and creativity that will continue to inspire.
Sophie Kinsella's passing at the age of 55, following her battle with glioblastoma, marks the end of a vibrant chapter in literary history. Her stories, filled with humor and heart, have touched millions and will continue to do so for generations to come. Her family, friends, and fans will hold onto the memories of her warmth, creativity, and the joy she brought into the world.