The 100 Most Influential Authors of the 20th Century
This list celebrates one hundred of the most widely read authors whose work shaped — and continues to shape — the literary landscape of the 20th century. It reflects a broad and inclusive perspective, recognising storytellers from across the globe and across genres, languages, and lived experiences.
From Nobel laureates to genre pioneers, from voices of revolution and exile to icons of popular fiction, these authors have reached millions of readers — sometimes across generations — through powerful ideas, unforgettable characters, and enduring narratives.
This is not a list of the “greatest” or “most awarded” writers, but rather those whose words found lasting audiences worldwide. It honours the diversity of 20th-century literature and invites you to explore signed editions of their works, now treasured by collectors and readers alike.
Click the name of the author to see signed works for sale:
Signed works by J. R. R. Tolkien on eBay
Lord of the Rings ~ SIGNED by J.R.R. TOLKIEN ~ First Edition ~ 1st Printing 1954
🇺🇸 Price: US $135,000.00
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J. R. R. Tolkien The Fall Of Numenor Signed by Alan Lee 1st Edition HB
🇺🇸 Price: US $89.03
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Lord of the Rings Trilogy ~ SIGNED by J. R. R. TOLKIEN ~ First Edition 1957 JRR
🇺🇸 Price: US $32,000.00
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Autographed* The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien Hardcover Box Set, *READ*
🇺🇸 Price: US $219.99
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Alan Lee Signed Unfinished Tales 2020 J.R.R. Tolkien Illustrated Ted Nasmith
🇺🇸 Price: US $185.00
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The Tale of the Children of Hurin ~ by J.R.R. TOLKIEN ~ Limited Signed Ed ~ 2007
🇺🇸 Price: US $3,600.00
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SIGNED J.R.R. Tolkien Sir Gawain and the Green Knight UK 1st Allen Unwin 1975
🇺🇸 Price: US $480.00
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The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings Trilogy ~ SIGNED by J.R.R. TOLKIEN 4X ~ JRR
🇺🇸 Price: US $110,000.00
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Folio Society THE HOBBIT J. R. R. Tolkien Slipcased SIGNED Numbered by Alan Lee
🇺🇸 Price: US $1,195.00
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The Annotated Hobbit SIGNED by Douglas A. Anderson, JRR Tolkien 1st Ed HC/DJ
🇺🇸 Price: US $500.00
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