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
Signed by Alan Lee & Brian Sibley-The Fall of Numenor by J. R. R. Tolkien-New
🇺🇸 Price: US $153.86
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SIGNED J.R.R. TOLKIEN THE FALL OF NUMENOR 1ST HC/DJ PROFUSELY ILLUSTRATED
🇺🇸 Price: US $179.00
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J R R TOLKIEN / The Hobbit or There and Back Again Limited Signed 1st ed 1990
🇺🇸 Price: US $999.00
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Folio Society J.R.R.Tolkien The Lord of the Rings Limited Edition RARE SIGNED
🇺🇸 Price: US $4,627.74
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Lord of the Rings ~ SIGNED by J.R.R. TOLKIEN ~ First Edition ~ 1st Printing 1954
🇺🇸 Price: US $135,000.00
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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 Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien : Boxed Set 3 HCDJ Lee Signed First Ed
🇺🇸 Price: US $1,250.00
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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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The Annotated Hobbit SIGNED by Douglas A. Anderson, JRR Tolkien 1st Ed HC/DJ
🇺🇸 Price: US $550.00
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