The world lost many great writers in 2022. Nevertheless, their legacy still lives on. Whether they’ve written theological studies, children’s stories, or thrillers—their words on pages will forever live on through the hearts and minds of dedicated fans. Here are just some of the people to keep in your thoughts and prayers:
1. Pope Benedict XVI (April 16, 1927–December 31, 2022)
The former pope is known for his service to God. However, did you know that he has also written several works? Some of them include the following:
The former pope is known for his service to God. However, did you know that he has also written several works? Some of them include the following:
- Dogma and Preaching;
- Principles of Christian Morality; and
- Feast of Faith: Approaches to a Theology of the Liturgy
His works include defending the Catholic faith while emphasizing the need to return to Christian values.
2. F. Sionil José (December 3, 1924–January 6, 2022)
Francisco Sionil José was a Filipino writer whose themes included class struggles and the effects of colonialism in Filipino society. His works, written in English, are translated into twenty-eight languages. Considered the leading Filipino candidate for the Nobel Prize in Literature, he has won the esteemed Palanca Award.
3. Shirley Hughes (July 16, 1927–February 25, 2022)
Shirley Hughes, aka Winifred Shirley Hughes, was an English author and illustrator who wrote over fifty books. Her book Dogger (1977) was considered a favorite among the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medals for British children’s book illustration winners. She is also known for her Alfie series, which touched many adult and child readers for over thirty years.
4. Patricia MacLachlan (March 3, 1938 –March 31, 2022)
Patricia Marie MacLachlan is another children’s author known for her book, “Sarah, Plain and Tall.” It won the 1986 Newberry Medal and dealt with themes of loneliness, abandonment, and how to cope with change. It also has a 1991 made-for-tv adaptation , which stars Glenn Close and Christopher Walken. Four more books follow the book in the series, which explores the Witting family.
5. Jack Higgins (July 27, 1929–April 9, 2022)
Author Jack Higgins was born Henry Patterson. He is most well-known for his popular thrillers and espionage novels like “The Eagle Has Landed,” which also features a popular movie adaptation in 1976 featuring Michael Caine and Donald Sutherland.
He has also written other books under pseudonyms like James Graham, Martin Fallon, and Hugh Marlowe. Many of his stories feature cynical heroes and ruthless villains in vividly-described settings. His last book was “The Midnight Bell” published in 2016.
Many of these writers have created an impact that has changed the world of literature forever. While they are no longer here, their works are still available in multiple bookstores worldwide.