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 John Steinbeck on eBay
The Other Side of Eden: Life With John Steinbeck - Hardcover - signed Copy
🇺🇸 Price: US $49.99
Buy It Now
EAST OF EDEN by John Steinbeck Viking Press Signed True 1st Edition 1952
🇺🇸 Price: US $7,995.00
Buy It Now
signed by illustrator, Tortilla Flat, John Steinbeck, 1947, Worthington, HCDJ
🇺🇸 Price: US $249.99
Buy It Now
John Steinbeck TRAVELS WITH CHARLEY Signed 1st Edition 1st Printing
🇺🇸 Price: US $10,049.95
Buy It Now
JOHN STEINBECK GRAPES OF WRATH EASTON PRESS DELUXE ARTIST SIGNED SEALED
🇺🇸 Price: US $949.99
Buy It Now
John Steinbeck, Fletcher Martin / Of Mice and Man SIGNED Limited Edition
🇺🇸 Price: US $125.00
Buy It Now
1954 Sweet Thursday John Steinbeck First UK Edition Dust Wrapper signed
🇺🇸 Price: US $200.67
Buy It Now
Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck - 1st Edition, 1st Printing, Signed
🇺🇸 Price: US $5,350.00
Buy It Now
SIGNED, JOHN STEINBECK, IN DUBIOUS BATTLE, A NOVEL, 1963, DJ, NOBEL PRIZE WINNER
🇺🇸 Price: US $1,600.00
Buy It Now
The Red Pony ~ SIGNED by JOHN STEINBECK ~ First Edition ~ Limited ~ 1st ~ 1937
🇺🇸 Price: US $3,200.00
Buy It Now
John Steinbeck ONCE THERE WAS A WAR Signed 1st Edition 1st Printing
🇺🇸 Price: US $11,299.95
Buy It Now