Which award was J.K. Rowling appointed an Officer of in 2001?

J.K. Rowling was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2001. The appointment was announced in the United Kingdom’s New Year Honours list.

The Order of the British Empire is an order of chivalry recognizing contributions to the arts and sciences, work with charitable and welfare organizations, and public service. Its grades include Member, Officer, Commander, and higher ranks.

Rowling’s OBE recognized her contribution to children’s literature. By 2001, the Harry Potter novels had become an international publishing phenomenon, with books translated and distributed around the world.

An OBE is different from a knighthood or damehood. Rowling has often been described in news coverage through the initials OBE after her name, but the appointment did not make her a dame. The honor is also distinct from the Order of the Garter, the Order of the Bath, and the Order of Merit.