We all have that one book—or perhaps a few—that we just can’t put down. National Author’s Day, celebrated on November 1st, is the perfect opportunity to honor the brilliant minds behind these literary masterpieces. Much like a temporary escape from reality, books offer us a chance to relax and drift into new worlds, helping us forget the stresses of everyday life.
On this day, celebrate by cozying up with your favorite book, a warm drink, and spend some time getting lost in its pages. It’s important to recognize the dedication and creativity that go into writing. Authors invest countless hours, effort, and passion to bring us the stories we love—whether it’s fiction, fantasy, or biographies. Their words shape our lives, inspire our imaginations, and challenge us to see the world differently.
As we celebrate National Author’s Day, take a moment to appreciate the writers who have poured their heart and soul into creating your favorite books, giving us stories that entertain, educate, and inspire.
History of National Author’s Day
What Defines an Author?
Renowned French philosopher Michel Foucault once asked, “What is an author?” He argued that attributing a work to a single individual profoundly affects how readers interpret it. Despite the deep philosophical discussions that followed, one thing is clear: authors are creators through and through.
The Impact of Authors Through Time
Authors are the minds behind novels, poems, graphic novels, textbooks, and so much more. From William Shakespeare—arguably the most famous author, and debatably a collective of writers under one pen name in the 1500s—who captivated both royalty and commoners alike, to contemporary writers like J.K. Rowling and Stephen King, who craft fantastical and horrifying worlds that reflect and provide insight into our own realities.
Authors as Timeless Storytellers
Regardless of the era or their origins, authors have always had the power to teach, entertain, and move us—even dating back to ancient storytellers like Homer. Though blind and unable to write, Homer recited epic poems like the “Iliad” and the “Odyssey,” which were later transcribed by his followers. History remembers Homer as the author, overlooking those who penned his words.
Revisiting Foucault’s Question
This brings us back to Foucault’s inquiry: What is an author? Historically and enduringly, an author is someone who uses words to inspire and influence others. Writers conduct extensive research and often spend years perfecting the stories we eventually read. Their dedication to drafting, editing, revising, and rewriting deserves our utmost appreciation.
The Origin of National Author’s Day
In 1928, Nellie Verne Burt McPherson, president of the Illinois Women’s Club and an avid reader, conceived the idea of a day to honor American authors. While hospitalized during World War I, she read Irving Bacheller’s “Eben Holden’s Last Day A-Fishing” and wrote to him expressing her admiration. Bacheller responded by sending her a signed copy of another story, deeply touching McPherson.
Establishing the Celebration
Moved by his generosity, McPherson sought a way to repay the gesture. She proposed the idea of National Author’s Day to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. The club approved, and in May 1929, they issued an endorsement to celebrate American authors annually.
Official Recognition and Legacy
The U.S. Department of Commerce officially recognized National Author’s Day in 1949. Although it took 20 years, McPherson’s vision became a reality, and the holiday has been celebrated nationwide every November 1st since then.
Continuing the Tradition
After McPherson’s passing in 1968, her granddaughter Sue Cole took on the responsibility of promoting the holiday. She encourages people to send appreciation notes to their favorite authors, celebrating their contributions to literature and acknowledging how they enrich our lives.
National Author’s Day Activities
Tweet at Your Favorite Author
Thanks to social media, connecting with authors is easier than ever. Send your favorite author a tweet or post on social media to let them know their work has impacted you. You can also share a list of your favorite books to inspire aspiring writers or spread the word about a book you love. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #NationalAuthorsDay!
Buy a Book for Yourself or a Friend
Support your favorite authors by purchasing their works from your local bookstore or online. You can also share the joy of reading by gifting a book to a friend. Be sure to leave a positive review on platforms like Amazon to help spread the word.
Give Time to the Author Inside You
Take some time to write! Whether it’s a short story, poem, or a personal reflection, writing is one of the best ways to honor the authors who inspire you. Let their creativity motivate your own.
Read Their Works
Celebrate National Author’s Day by revisiting your favorite books or discovering new works by authors you admire. By reading their creations, you acknowledge their talent and dedication.
Share Your Favorite Books
Spread the love for literature by recommending your favorite books to friends, family, or colleagues. Sharing your literary treasures helps celebrate the authors who have made a meaningful impact on your life.
Support Local Authors
Attend book signings, readings, or workshops by local authors. Supporting their work not only fosters a love for literature in your community but also helps local writers gain recognition.
Write a Review
Share your appreciation for your favorite books by writing reviews online or in local publications. Positive reviews help authors gain visibility and encourage others to explore their work.
5 Mind-Blowing Facts About Writers
1. Can You Spot Ernest Hemingway?
Every year in Key West, Florida, Sloppy Joe’s Bar hosts a three-day Ernest Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. This fun tradition pays homage to the famous writer, who once lived in the area.
2. Unusual Warm-Up Rituals
According to his daughter’s memoir, J.D. Salinger had a bizarre pre-writing routine that included speaking in tongues and drinking his own urine.
3. Blurred Memories of “Cujo”
Stephen King’s drug and alcohol use in the 1980s was so intense that he has no memory of writing one of his most famous novels, “Cujo.”
4. Dan Brown’s Musical Beginnings
Before finding success as a writer, Dan Brown initially pursued a career as a solo pop singer.
5. Maya Angelou’s Five Years of Silence
After the tragic events of her childhood, including the death of her mother’s boyfriend, Maya Angelou became mute for five years, believing her words had caused his death.
Why We Love National Author’s Day
Writing Is an Art
Authors have the unique ability to capture life’s moments, emotions, and the human condition through words. Their observations and storytelling not only entertain us but can also change our perspective. Books give us a glimpse into the world through someone else’s eyes, broadening our own understanding of life.
Writing Can Be Challenging and Isolated
Writing is far from easy. Many famous authors have struggled with depression and alcoholism, possibly due to the loneliness of the craft. From battling writer’s block to facing rejection, the path of a writer is full of ups and downs. That’s why National Author’s Day is a perfect opportunity to appreciate the dedication and effort writers put into their work.
We All Dream of Writing a Book
Who hasn’t thought about writing a book? Whether it’s a memoir, a sci-fi adventure, or a children’s story, many of us believe there’s a book within us. National Author’s Day is the perfect motivation for aspiring writers to pick up the pen and follow in the footsteps of those who have taken their ideas from concept to publication.
FAQs:
When is National Author’s Day celebrated?
National Author’s Day is celebrated every year on November 1st.
Why is National Author’s Day important?
This day recognizes the creativity, hard work, and contributions of authors to society. It also celebrates the lasting impact and legacy of their written works.
How can I celebrate National Author’s Day?
You can celebrate by reading books from your favorite authors, sharing recommendations, supporting local writers, writing reviews, and engaging with authors on social media.