‘Shopaholic’ Author Sophie Kinsella Dies at 55 After Battle With Brain Cancer

LONDON — Sophie Kinsella, the bestselling author of the “Shopaholic” novels, died at 55 after an 18-month fight with aggressive brain cancer, her family announced Wednesday.

Kinsella, whose books sold more than 50 million copies in 60 countries, became a global name with her 2000 debut The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic. The series, centered on Becky Bloomwood’s chaotic shopping adventures, earned a devoted following worldwide — including among Jewish readers. Though Kinsella herself was not Jewish, many of her titles have been translated into Hebrew and became staples in Israeli bookstores.

Her family said she died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, and praised her “unimaginable courage” during her illness. They added that she considered herself blessed by her family, friends, and the success of her writing career.