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National Author’s Day

Celebrate National Author's Day by picking up a book from your favorite author and taking some time to reflect on their inspiring words!

Sunday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATENovember 1

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYPop Culture

SUBCATEGORYBooks

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Authors' Day on Nov. 1! This holiday has been around since 1954 and honors the literary works of authors from all genres and backgrounds. From great classics like William Shakespeare, JK Rowling, Maya Angelou, Jane Austen, Ernest Hemingway, to contemporary favorites such as Stephen King and John Green - these talented wordsmiths have enriched our culture with their wisdom and creativity for centuries.

TIMELINE

National Author’s Day Timeline

Nellie Verne Burt McPherson's Idea

Nellie Verne Burt McPherson proposed the idea of National Author's Day as a way to show appreciation to American authors.

Women’s Club Adoption

The General Federation of Women's Clubs backed McPherson's campaign for a National Author's Day.

United States Department of Commerce Involvement

The United States Department of Commerce recognizes National Author's Day, bringing it closer to official recognition.

Official Recognition

National Author's Day is officially recognized by the U.S Congress, establishing it as a national holiday.

Digital Celebrations

With the advent of social media, National Author's Day starts being celebrated virtually with hashtags and online author features.

Promotion of Diverse Authors

Efforts are intensified to celebrate and recognize authors from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Author’s Day

Read a book by an author you haven't read before.

Dive into the works of a new author and discover something new. Whether it is a classic or a more contemporary work, you can explore different genres and styles.

WRITE

Write a fan letter to your favorite author.

Take some time to write a heartfelt letter to your favorite author and express your gratitude for their work. You never know, they might even write back!

ATTEND

Attend an author event in your area.

Many authors host events such as book signings, lectures, and readings at local libraries and bookstores. Check online or in the newspaper for upcoming events that you can attend.

HOST

Host a book club meeting.

Gather a group of friends and pick out a book by an author you all enjoy. Set up a meeting, discuss the book, and share your thoughts on the author's writing style.

CREATE

Create artwork inspired by an author's work

Pick out one of your favorite pieces of literature and create something based off of it. Paintings, drawings, sculptures, poems - the possibilities are endless.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Author’s Day

Authors inspire us with their courage

Writing takes tremendous courage - authors put themselves at risk by opening up their creative worlds and sharing their thoughts and ideas with the world. Celebrating National Authors Day is a way we can honor these brave creators for having the strength to share their stories with us all!

Authors open our eyes to new perspectives

Authors have the power to transport readers into a different world and help them gain insight into concepts they may not otherwise encounter. Through words on a page, authors have the ability to spark creativity, evoke emotion and awaken understanding.

Authors entertain with their stories

A great story can bring people together in ways that nothing else can. Whether it's a funny novel or a thrilling mystery, authors create powerful pieces of work that keep readers engaged from start to finish. Even if you're not usually a reader, there's sure to be an author out there who can change your mind!