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 James Baldwin on eBay
SIGNED JAMES BALDWIN "If Beale Street Could Talk" PB 1st SIGNET Edition
🇺🇸 Price: US $500.00
Buy It Now
SIGNED Franklin Library GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN James Baldwin LEATHER 1979
🇺🇸 Price: US $499.49
Buy It Now
James Baldwin THE PRICE OF THE TICKET Collected Nonfiction 1948-1985 Signed 1st
🇺🇸 Price: US $5,080.12
Buy It Now
James Baldwin. The Fire Next Time. Photographs by Steve Schapiro. (SIGNED)#246
🇺🇸 Price: US $350.00
Buy It Now
Just Above My Head James Baldwin SIGNED LTD 1979 1st Edition HC NEAR FINE
🇺🇸 Price: US $750.00
Buy It Now
The Fire Next Time, James Baldwin (1963) True First Edition, SIGNED
🇺🇸 Price: US $1,500.00
Buy It Now
Go Tell It On The Mountain, James Baldwin (1963) True First Edition, SIGNED
🇺🇸 Price: US $4,500.00
Buy It Now
James Baldwin / Blues For Mister Charlie / Signed First Edition in DJ; Dial 1964
🇺🇸 Price: US $1,650.00
Buy It Now
SIGNED - JAMES BALDWIN'S TURKISH DECADE by Zaborowska - 1st PB 2009 Duke
🇺🇸 Price: US $49.50
Buy It Now
Gypsy and Other Poems by James Baldwin Ltd Ed #75/325 Signed by Leonard Baskin
🇺🇸 Price: US $650.00
Buy It Now
The Jonah by James Herbert SIGNED LIMITED EDITION 292 of 300 CENTIPEDE PRESS
🇺🇸 Price: US $149.99
Buy It Now
Nothing Personal - Richard Avedon & James Baldwin SIGNED! First Ed Atheneum 1964
🇺🇸 Price: US $1,500.00
Buy It Now
James Baldwin SIGNED & dedicated First Edition of Just Above My Head 1979
🇺🇸 Price: US $2,739.40
Buy It Now
Signed By Author is an eBay affiliate. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.