Paulette Jiles
Author of 'News of the World' adapted into major film
Paulette Jiles (born 1943) is an American author, screenwriter, and poet whose literary career spans decades and multiple genres. Born in Missouri, she has authored numerous novels and poetry collections that have garnered critical acclaim and major literary awards. Her breakthrough novel 'News of the World' (2010) became an international bestseller, exploring themes of redemption and human connection in post-Civil War Texas through the relationship between an aging news reader and a young girl. The novel's success led to a major film adaptation in 2020 starring Tom Hanks, bringing her work to a wider audience. Beyond fiction, Jiles has worked extensively as a screenwriter and has been a dedicated educator, teaching creative writing to students. Her work is characterized by lyrical prose, deep character development, and exploration of American history and frontier themes. Jiles has received numerous accolades throughout her career and is recognized as a significant voice in contemporary American literature, with her novels translated into multiple languages and adapted for screen.
Arts & Literature
American
1943
Thinking about the name
Paulette
French origin
“The classic feminine form of Paul, derived from the Latin Paulus meaning 'small' or 'humble,' with the distinctly French -ette suffix. Paulette became widely popular in the mid-20th century, particularly in France and among French-influenced American culture. It balances sophistication with accessibility, feeling both chic and warm.”