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LONDON, Aug 24, 2006 (UPI via COMTEX) -- "Harry Potter" author Jo Rowling is a billionaire, but having struggled earlier in life, she lives "modestly" in Britain and donates generously to charity.
Author of seven "Potter" books, with additional royalties from movies and merchandise, Rowling reportedly earns about $2 million every three days. Some have said she has more money than Queen Elizabeth, the Daily Mail reported.
But before she achieved fame, Rowling is said to have lived a hand-to-mouth existence in a mice-infested apartment on $132 per week.
The successful author has never been given to conspicuous consumption. She is disinterested in high fashion, although she does appreciate a nice handbag and quality shoes, the Mail reported.
Rowling's husband, Neil Murray, works as a family doctor. She said he "doesn't really spend money." The couple's children attend state schools.
Rowling gives large amounts to charity, including $41.5 million to Comic Relief. Rowling recently founded the Children's High Level Group to advocate for children's rights, especially those who are disabled in Eastern European care homes.
Her reasoning is that the money was earned doing something she loves.
"I suppose I feel I haven't suffered enough," she said.
URL: www.upi.com Copyright 2006 by United Press International
