Picture a New Zealand-born Aussie who swapped data modeling for storytelling and struck gold with a quirky romantic comedy—meet Graeme Simsion! Best known for his international bestseller The Rosie Project, Simsion has charmed millions with his heartfelt and humorous tales of love, neurodiversity, and human connection. His journey from IT consultant to literary sensation proves it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
With his Don Tillman series translated into over 40 languages and selling millions of copies, Simsion’s blend of wit, warmth, and relatable characters has made him a beloved voice in contemporary fiction. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the life, works, and impact of this delightful author!
The Making of Graeme Simsion
Born in Auckland, New Zealand in 1956, Graeme Simsion moved to Australia at age 12, where his knack for systems and structure led him to study physics and later pivot to information technology. He built a successful career, founding Simsion Bowles & Associates, a consultancy that grew to 70 staff. By 2006, with an MBA and a PhD in data modeling from the University of Melbourne under his belt, Simsion took a bold leap at 50, enrolling in a screenwriting course at RMIT University. This sparked a creative shift, setting the stage for his literary breakout.
Graeme Simsion’s Unforgettable Stories
Simsion’s debut, The Rosie Project (2013), started as a screenplay before becoming a novel that won the Victorian Premier’s Unpublished Manuscript Award. The story follows Don Tillman, a socially awkward genetics professor on a quest for love via a scientific questionnaire, only to be swept up by the free-spirited Rosie. Its humor and heart made it a global hit, selling over five million copies. The sequels, The Rosie Effect (2014) and The Rosie Result (2019), continue Don and Rosie’s journey through marriage and parenthood, exploring neurodiversity with sensitivity.
Beyond the Don Tillman series, Simsion’s The Best of Adam Sharp (2016) dives into rekindled romance, while Two Steps Forward (2017) and its sequel Two Steps Onward, co-written with his wife, Anne Buist, follow characters on a transformative pilgrimage. His writing style—witty, character-driven, and emotionally intelligent—blends humor with poignant themes, making his stories universally appealing. Simsion also penned The Novel Project (2021), a practical guide for aspiring writers, and Creative Differences and Other Stories (2022), showcasing his versatility with short fiction.
Why Graeme Simsion Matters
Simsion’s work resonates because it celebrates human differences, particularly through Don Tillman, whose neurodivergent traits spark discussions about autism and acceptance. His books have touched readers worldwide, offering laughter and insight into relationships and personal growth. By transitioning from IT to fiction, Simsion inspires late bloomers to chase creative dreams, proving reinvention is possible at any age. His collaboration with Anne Buist, a psychiatrist and novelist, adds depth to his narratives, blending storytelling with real-world perspectives.
- Born: 1956, Auckland, New Zealand
- Key Works: The Rosie Project, The Rosie Effect, The Rosie Result, Two Steps Forward
- Awards: Victorian Premier’s Unpublished Manuscript Award (2012), Australian Book Industry’s Book of the Year (2014)
- Fun Fact: Simsion once ran a wine distribution business called Pinot Now!
Snag The Rosie Project and dive into Graeme Simsion’s witty, heartwarming world of romantic comedy!