National Authors Day

Young woman sitting at a desk, surrounded by books, wearing glasses and holding a pen, with a thoughtful expression.. — National authors day illustration

Pack up your manuscript, put on your thinking cap and celebrate your favorite authors - it's National Authors Day! Often overlooked between the clamor for Halloween treats and the start of No-Shave November, this day has quietly gained popularity online, especially on November 1, 2016, when it reached a thrilling climax with 2206 mentions! Want to know more about this day? Well, grab a cup of coffee, nestle into a comfortable chair and read on!

When is Authors Day?

It's national authors day on the 1st November.

History of National Authors Day

Though you might be tempted to think this day was spun into existence by ink-stained wretches desperate for attention, it was actually the brainchild of the Women's National Book Association, or WNBA (no, not the basketball one). They initiated the holiday back in 1928 as a way to honor American authors. Presidential Proclamation made it official in 1949, and authors have been bathing in recognition and love on this day ever since!

Author Love Online

Fast forward to the era of hashtags (#NationalAuthorsDay, anyone?), the holiday took a digital roar! On November 1, 2016, the web was brimful with mentions of National Authors Day — 2206 to be precise! It seemed like the internet turned into a giant book club, with people tweeting about their favorite authors, posting selfies with their cherished books, and libraries and bookstores hosting special events.

Celebrating National Authors Day

Wondering how to celebrate this day? Well, get creative! You could curl up with a book by your favorite author, write a review online, or take it a step further by sending a personal note to an author whose work has influenced you. How about starting that novel you've been planning to write?

History behind the term 'Authors'

14th century

Origin of the word 'authors'

The word 'authors' can be traced back to the 14th century when it first appeared in Middle English. It was derived from the Latin word 'auctor', meaning 'maker, founder, originator'. During this time, authors were often referred to as 'auctours', emphasizing their role as creators and innovators in the literary world.

15th century

Emergence of printing press

The 15th century marked a significant turning point in the history of authors with the invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in 1440. This groundbreaking technological advancement revolutionized the production and dissemination of written works, making books more accessible to a wider audience. Authors now had a broader platform to share their ideas and reach readers across different regions.

18th century

Rise of literary criticism

In the 18th century, literary criticism gained prominence, shaping the way authors were perceived and evaluated. Influential figures such as Samuel Johnson and Jonathan Swift played key roles in analyzing and critiquing literature. This period witnessed a growing recognition of authors as individuals who possessed unique writing styles, distinctive voices, and profound insights into the human condition. Literary criticism provided a platform for engaging in intellectual conversations about various literary works and further elevated the status of authors.

19th century

The rise of the author as a celebrity

During the 19th century, authors began to attain celebrity status, partly due to the rise of the publishing industry and the growing demands of the reading public. Writers like Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and Jane Austen achieved immense popularity, attracting large audiences who eagerly awaited their new works. The public's fascination with authors extended beyond their literary creations, as they became the subject of intense public interest and admiration. This marked a significant shift in how authors were perceived, transitioning from mere creators of literature to cultural icons.

20th century

Expansion of authorship beyond literature

The 20th century witnessed a broadening of the concept of authorship beyond the realm of literature. With the advent of film, radio, and television, storytelling expanded into new mediums, creating opportunities for authors to express their creativity beyond the written word. Authors now had the chance to collaborate with filmmakers, screenwriters, and directors, contributing to the development of visual narratives. This expansion of authorship further highlighted the versatility and adaptability of authors in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Did you know?

Did you know that the first book ever written using a typewriter was 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer'? Mark Twain must've had quite the typing skills! Imagine if he had a laptop.