J.K. Rowling Joins Wealthiest List

The Harry Potter phenomenon has brought fame and fortune to its author.  Since the US release of her first book in 1997, more than 300 million copies have been sold.  In addition to the books, movie rights and merchandising for the tales of the boy wizard have helped to build her wealth.

It is estimated that Rowling earned 77 pounds per minute during the past year, placing her ninth on the list of the biggest wage earners on the planet, according to Forbes magazine.  Rowling is also notably the only non-American on the list in the top ten.

The top spot went to director Steven Spielberg.