Delia Owens Net Worth: How Rich Is The Author?

Delia Owens is a well-known American author and zoologist. She is best known for her debut novel Where the Crawdads Sing, which has sold millions of copies worldwide and was adapted into a major motion picture. But how much is Delia Owens' net worth in 2024?

Delia Owens Net Worth

As of 2024, Delia Owens' net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This wealth comes primarily from her successful writing career, particularly the sales of Where the Crawdads Sing.

Early Career and Education

Delia Owens' career began in zoology. She studied zoology at the University of Georgia, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. She later received a Ph.D. in Animal Behavior from the University of California, Davis. With her then-husband Mark Owens, she spent years studying wildlife in Africa, which provided the basis for her early non-fiction books.

Writing Career

Owens' writing career started with non-fiction books co-authored with her husband, Mark Owens, detailing their experiences as wildlife researchers in Africa:

• Cry of the Kalahari (1984)
• The Eye of the Elephant (1992)
• Secrets of the Savanna (2006)

Her debut novel, Where the Crawdads Sing, published in 2018, became a massive success. The novel's blend of mystery, romance, and natural history resonated with readers worldwide, leading to significant sales and critical acclaim. It topped the New York Times Best Seller list for a total of 32 weeks.

Where the Crawdads Sing

Where the Crawdads Sing tells the story of Kya, a young girl who raises herself in the marshes of North Carolina after being abandoned by her family. The novel explores themes of isolation, survival, and the connection between humans and nature. Its success led to a film adaptation in 2022, further boosting Owens' popularity and income.

Earnings and Revenue

Delia Owens' revenue primarily comes from book sales, royalties, and film rights. Where the Crawdads Sing has sold over 12 million copies, generating substantial income. The film adaptation, produced by Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, also contributed to her earnings.

Royalties from book sales typically range from 10% to 15% of the book's cover price. Given the high volume of sales for Where the Crawdads Sing, these royalties would amount to millions of dollars. Additionally, the sale of film rights and subsequent royalties from the movie would add significantly to her wealth.

Real Estate and Assets

While specific details about Delia Owens' real estate holdings and other assets are not publicly available, it is reasonable to assume that she has invested in property and other assets befitting her financial status. Most successful authors invest a portion of their earnings in real estate, stocks, and other investment vehicles.

Accolades and Recognition

Delia Owens has received numerous awards and recognition for her work, including:

• Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fiction (2018)
• Audible Book of the Year (2019)

These accolades have not only boosted her reputation but also contributed to the increased sales and recognition of her books.

Conclusion

Delia Owens' estimated $10 million net worth is a testament to her successful writing career, particularly the widespread popularity of Where the Crawdads Sing. Her journey from a wildlife researcher to a best-selling author is an inspiring story of talent, hard work, and perseverance.