Author Lois Lowry, 89, Reveals ‘Bizarre Accident’ That Sent Her to the ER Covered in Bruises

Lois Lowry, the esteemed author known for her impactful young adult literature, has recently cancelled a highly anticipated book event due to a serious incident involving a malfunctioning revolving door. The author, now 89 years old, garnered attention on social media when she posted a striking selfie that showcased her injuries, including significant bruising and a laceration on her lip.

The incident occurred before Lowry was slated to appear at An Unlikely Story, an independent bookstore in Plainville, Massachusetts. She had been set to engage in a discussion alongside Jeff Kinney, renowned for his popular “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series. The event was part of the promotional tour for her latest work, “Building 903,” which was released to the public just last month.

In her Instagram post dated October 12, Lowry provided an update to her fans, explaining the unfortunate turn of events. “This is my glamour shot this morning after a bizarre accident that sent me to the ER for six hours instead of to the wonderful event at An Unlikely Story which alas, had to be cancelled,” she wrote in the caption, clearly unable to conceal her disappointment at missing the occasion.

The author did not shy away from detailing the cause of her injuries. She revealed that it was an “apparently malfunctioning revolving door” that led to her predicament. The sudden and unexpected nature of the accident clearly took her by surprise, leading to an emergency room visit rather than the book signing event she had looked forward to attending.

Lowry’s literary career, spanning over four decades, has made her a beloved figure in the world of children’s literature. She is most celebrated for her 1993 work, “The Giver,” a dystopian novel that explores profound themes of memory and individuality. This story was later adapted into a feature film in 2014, featuring notable actors such as Meryl Streep and Jeff Bridges.

In a conversation earlier this year with PEOPLE magazine, Lowry reflected on her inclination to return to dystopian themes, which are evident in “Building 903.” She stated, “These are tough times that we live in, with lots of questions about the future.” With candidness, she expressed her concerns about the state of the world, acknowledging her age and the uncertainty of not being there to witness future developments. Yet, she expressed hope that her imagination could navigate the complexities of society, “However, my imagination does that for me.”

Her remarks highlight the relevance and importance of literature in providing insights into current societal concerns, reinforcing the idea that storytelling can address difficult subjects. “Building 903” marks a continuation of her exploration of such themes, embodying her long-standing commitment to engaging young readers in meaningful discussions about their world.

While the cancellation of the event is undoubtedly disappointing for Lowry’s fans, her health and recovery remain paramount. She will undoubtedly continue to inspire and connect with her audience through her powerful narratives and the values she imparts through her work.

As she recovers, many of her readers will be eagerly awaiting the opportunity to meet the iconic author in the future. Lowry’s contributions to literature not only encompass entertaining stories but also challenge readers to reflect and think critically about the world around them. Despite the setback, her resilience and dedication to her craft are evident, and her next appearance is sure to be met with even more enthusiasm and anticipation.