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 Wole Soyinka on eBay
Chronicles of the Happiest People on Earth by Wole Soyinka (signed first ed.)
🇺🇸 Price: US $450.00
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Poems of Black Africa by Wole Soyinka (SIGNED 1st American Ed. 1975, Hardcover)
🇺🇸 Price: US $2,500.00
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Selected Poems By Wole Soyinka (2023) - a retrospective. Author-signed
🇺🇸 Price: US $350.00
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Wole Soyinka / The Interpreters / Signed in DJ / Later Printing, 1988
🇺🇸 Price: US $330.00
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Wole Soyinka, Ezekiel Mphahlele / BLACK ORPHEUS August 1964 No 15 Signed 1st ed
🇺🇸 Price: US $2,750.00
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