Yann Martel, Elif Shafak, Ali Smith, Olga Tokarczuk, and others, champion PEN International’s first ‘Literary Auction’
“Writers are only ever free as the words they can speak. I’ve seen how PEN International works to protect that freedom, and it feels vital to stand with them. I hope as many as possible will join PEN International’s auction, to make sure their words and stories can continue to be heard” - Isabel Allende
“I’ve been a member of PEN International’s Writer Circle for many years, and support PEN’s efforts whenever I can. I’m delighted to be able to help raise funds through this special auction.” Yann Martel
“I’m pleased to be able to support PEN International through this auction. As a member of PEN’s Writers Circle, I’ve considered it important to support PEN’s solidarity and humanitarian programmes for many years.” Sir Ian Rankin
10 December 2025: PEN International is proud to announce the launch of its first Literary Auction. This marks a new chapter in the history of the organisation, bringing together some of the world’s most celebrated writers in a collective effort to defend freedom of expression at a time when it is under unprecedented threat, with special gifts from Elif Shafak, Yann Martel, Ian Rankin, Ali Smith, Jane Hirshfield, Isabel Allende, Anthony Doerr, and Olga Tokarczuk.
Celebrated writers have donated rare, exclusive, and deeply personal items that reflect the power of literature to inspire solidarity and spark change. Their contributions highlight a shared belief in PEN International’s mission: that words must remain free, and that those who risk everything to speak truth must never stand alone. The auction offers extraordinary gifts, including:
Yann Martel’s original manuscript notes for Son of Nobody
A once-in-a-lifetime video call with Elif Shafak
The chance to appear as a character in Ali Smith’s next novel
A signed first edition of The Asking by Jane Hirshfield
A signed, limited edition of Ian Rankin’s Standing in Another Man’s Grave
An exclusive, specially designed poster by Anthony Doerr, featuring his original schematics for Cloud Cuckoo Land — not available to buy elsewhere
A leather bound, signed copy of The House of the Spirits by Isabelle Allende
Each item offers supporters a unique connection to the authors they admire—while directly strengthening PEN’s work.
Funds raised through the auction will support PEN International’s global programmes, including emergency assistance for writers at risk, as well as long-term campaigns and advocacy for freedom of expression in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
The PEN International Literary Auction not only showcases the extraordinary commitment of the global literary community, but also invites readers, supporters, and collectors everywhere to help safeguard the voices that shape our world.
The auction is open to bidders worldwide.
Note to Editors:
For media queries, please contact: Sabrina Tucci, Head of Communications and Campaigns, [email protected]
To discuss the Literary Auction, please contact: Paul Julien, Head of Development, [email protected]