4 November 2026: PEN International is launching Expressions of Freedom, an online fundraising auction bringing together an exceptional group of internationally acclaimed writers and creative voices in support of its work defending freedom of expression and protecting writers at risk around the world.
Opening on Monday 9 November 2026 at 12 noon GMT, the auction features contributions from Margaret Atwood, Siri Hustvedt, Yann Martel, Kate Mosse, Ayelet Waldman, Sir Ian Rankin, Mikhail Shishkin, Jane Hirshfield, Judyth Hill, Anthony Doerr, Lemn Sissay OBE, Hayley Mulenda, Andrey Kurkov, Mona Arshi and Joanne Leedom-Ackerman.
Bidders will have the opportunity to acquire unique literary items and take part in exclusive experiences, including private conversations with authors, one-to-one creative mentoring, online poetry gatherings, signed first editions, original artwork and handwritten material.
Among the highlights of the auction are:
Margaret Atwood: A private 30-minute video conversation, accompanied by a signed copy of her memoir Book of Lives.
Siri Hustvedt: An original drawing by the acclaimed novelist and essayist.
Sir Ian Rankin: A signed limited edition of Standing in Another Man’s Grave.
Yann Martel: Original handwritten notes from the early development of his novel Son of Nobody, accompanied by a personal message from the author.
Anthony Doerr: A personalised postcard written by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author.
Kate Mosse: A signed first edition of Autumn: The Story of a Season.
Other contributions include:
Ayelet Waldman: An exclusive book club experience, including a discussion of her latest novel A Perfect Hand for the winning bidder and five guests.
Jane Hirshfield: A private online poetry gathering, with invitations for guests of the successful bidder.
Lemn Sissay OBE: A private one-to-one conversation, with the possibility of an in-person meeting in London or Manchester, where the winner can also bring a friend.
Mikhail Shishkin: Signed editions of his acclaimed works.
Judyth Hill: A private one-hour poetry or publishing session.
Hayley Mulenda: An exclusive one-to-one mentoring session and signed book.
Andrey Kurkov: A signed edition of Freedom / Vrijheid, a bilingual English-Dutch publication, one of only 300 copies.
Mona Arshi: An exclusive poetry mentoring experience, including a reading of up to 20 poems from the winning bidder’s manuscript and an individual feedback session.
Joanne Leedom-Ackerman: A collection of signed books and a private conversation with the author.
At a time when writers, journalists and creatives around the world continue to face censorship, intimidation, imprisonment and persecution for expressing their ideas, the auction offers an opportunity for the literary and creative community to come together in support of those whose voices are under threat.
Taking place in the lead-up to Human Rights Day on 10 December, Expressions of Freedom celebrates the power of literature, art and creativity to inspire, challenge ideas and bring people together. Every bid will help strengthen PEN International’s work defending the fundamental right to express ideas freely.
Note to Editors:
For media queries, please contact Sabrina Tucci, Head of Communications and Campaigns at PEN International: [email protected]