Ursula K. Le Guin, feminist science fiction and fantasy author, dead at 88
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Ursula K. Le Guin, the feminist science fiction and fantasy author of the beloved Earthsea series, has died, her family said Tuesday. She was 88.
A family statement posted Tuesday on Le Guin's verified Twitter account says she passed away peacefully on Monday.
In addition to her fantasy and science fiction novels, Le Guin wrote short stories, poetry and literature for young adults.
She gained fame in 1969 with "The Left Hand of Darkness," which involves a radical investigation of gender roles.
Her feminist-themed 1983 "Left-Handed Commencement Address" at Mills College was ranked one of the top 100 speeches of the 20th century by researchers at the University of Wisconsin and Texas A&M University.
The Earthsea books have sold in the millions in 16 languages.
Horror writer Stephen King paid tribute to Le Guin on Twitter, calling her "one of the greats."
Usula K. LeGuin, one of the greats, has passed. Not just a science fiction writer; a literary icon. Godspeed into the galaxy.
— Stephen King (@StephenKing) January 23, 2018