James Dashner Biography: Wife, Age, Height, Net Worth, Children, Wiki, Parents, Siblings

James Dashner is an American author of young adult speculative fiction, best known for his #1 New York Times bestselling Maze Runner series, which was adapted into a successful film trilogy by 20th Century Fox. Born in Georgia and raised in a large family, he transitioned from a career in finance and accounting to full-time writing, creating dystopian adventures filled with survival, mystery, and complex characters that have captivated millions of readers worldwide.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: James Smith Dashner
• Stage Name: James Dashner
• Born: 26 November 1972
• Age: 53 years old
• Birthplace: Austell, Georgia
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Author
• Height: Unknown
• Parents: James Dashner, Linda Dashner
• Siblings: 5
• Spouse: Lynette Anderson (m. 1998)
• Children: 4
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $4,000,000

Early Life and Education

James Smith Dashner was born on 26 November 1972 in Austell, Georgia. He grew up as one of six children in a supportive family that encouraged reading and creativity, with parents James Dashner and Linda Dashner. Details about his five siblings remain private.

He graduated from Duluth High School in 1991, then moved to Provo, Utah, where he attended Brigham Young University and earned a master’s degree in accounting. His ethnicity is Caucasian, and he was raised in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Career

James Dashner began his career after working in finance and materials management following his accounting degree.

He had written stories on his parents’ typewriter since childhood but pursued practical work until the idea for his first novel took hold.

He started with small-press publications, including the Jimmy Fincher Saga beginning in 2003, and gained early recognition in the LDS market with series like The 13th Reality, which earned him the Whitney Award for Best Youth Fiction.

His breakthrough came with the 2009 release of The Maze Runner, the first book in a dystopian trilogy that quickly became a bestseller and led to sequels such as The Scorch Trials and The Death Cure.

He expanded the universe with prequels like The Kill Order and The Fever Code, while also contributing to projects like the Infinity Ring series and writing the Mortality Doctrine trilogy. These works showcased his skill in blending action, puzzles, and emotional depth for young adult readers.

James Dashner has built a lasting legacy as a prominent voice in teen speculative fiction. The Maze Runner series alone has sold over 21 million copies worldwide, inspired major film adaptations, and introduced many readers to dystopian adventures.

He continues to add to his worlds, including the Maze Cutter trilogy, while maintaining a strong connection with fans through his honest and engaging storytelling.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @dashnerjames
• Facebook Handle: James Dashner Books
• Twitter Handle: Unknown

Personal Life

James Dashner married Lynette Anderson in 1998 after meeting her at Brigham Young University. The couple has four children and lives together in the Rocky Mountains of Utah.

He often speaks about the joy of family life and how it balances with his writing, crediting his wife’s support throughout his career.

Net Worth

James Dashner has an estimated net worth of $4 million.

His primary sources of income include book sales and royalties from his extensive catalogue, particularly the Maze Runner series; traditional publishing advances; international rights deals; and earnings from the film adaptations of his books.