November 22

Born Mary Ann Evans in 1819, she adopted the pseudonym 'George Eliot' to ensure her works were taken seriously. Her novels 'Adam Bede', 'Middlemarch', and 'Daniel Deronda' explore morality, social change, and human complexity. Eliot's writing is praised for its realism, profound character studies, and philosophical depth. She also translated works of German philosophy and wrote poetry and essays. Eliot's influence extends to modern literature, inspiring writers with her narrative technique and insight. She died in 1880, leaving a legacy as one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian era.

George Gissing (1857-1903) was a prominent English novelist whose works offered sharp insight into the struggles of the lower and middle classes in late Victorian London. His novels, including the notable New Grub Street, explored themes of poverty, ambition, and social hypocrisy. Gissing's style combined keen social observation with richly developed characters. Despite personal hardships, he produced a significant body of work that influenced subsequent generations of writers. His literary legacy endures in the study of British realism and the understanding of societal constraints during his era.

André Gide (1869-1951) was a leading French literary figure whose work examined themes of personal integrity, desire, and the constraints of society. He authored acclaimed novels such as The Immoralist and The Counterfeiters, experimenting with innovative narrative techniques. In his essays and diaries, Gide offered frank reflections on his travels, philosophical beliefs, and personal life. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1947, he was celebrated for his profound and varied body of work. Gide's outspoken critiques of colonialism and his defense of intellectual freedom influenced generations of writers and thinkers. His legacy endures in modernist literature and human rights discourse.

Endre Ady revolutionized Hungarian literature with his passionate and avant-garde poetry published in the journal Nyugat. His work blended symbolist influences with personal themes of love, nationalism, and existential yearning. As a journalist, Ady championed cultural renewal and challenged conservative norms in early 20th-century Hungary. His bold style and provocative essays inspired a generation of writers and intellectuals. Despite his early death at 41, Ady's legacy endures as a cornerstone of modern Hungarian literary heritage.

Fumio Niwa was born in 1904 in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, and became an influential figure in modern Japanese literature. He debuted with works that delved into ethical dilemmas and the human condition, gaining acclaim for his clear prose and insightful character studies. Niwa's novels often addressed the clash between tradition and modernity in 20th-century Japan. He also wrote essays, plays, and non-fiction, demonstrating a wide literary range. During World War II, he served in the Japanese army and later reflected on wartime experiences in his writing. Niwa won several literary awards, including the prestigious Yomiuri Prize. He continued producing significant works that influenced postwar Japanese literature until his death in 2005. His works remain studied for their moral depth and sociocultural commentary.

Jon Cleary wrote more than fifty novels, achieving international success with works like 'The Sundowners,' which was adapted into a feature film. He created the beloved Scobie Malone detective series set in Sydney, blending mystery with local color. Cleary's novels often explored themes of family, adventure, and cultural change in post-war society. He received numerous literary awards and honors for his contributions to Australian literature. His engaging characters and compelling narratives earned him a dedicated global readership.

Brian Cleeve was born in 1921 and became a celebrated Irish author and broadcaster. He wrote acclaimed crime novels, memoirs, and works exploring cultural history. Cleeve’s engaging radio and television programs brought literature to a wide audience. His memoir, “A Fleece of Straw,” received praise for its wit and insight. An outspoken critic of censorship, he championed creative freedom throughout his career. He passed away in 2003, remembered for his storytelling and media presence.

John Bird was an influential English actor and writer whose career in satire spanned over five decades. He co-founded the satirical magazine Private Eye and contributed biting commentary on politics and society through his writing and stage performances. Bird gained widespread recognition as a star of the television series 'Bremner, Bird and Fortune,' where his incisive interviews and sketches challenged authority. He also appeared in numerous other television comedies and stage productions, showcasing his versatility as a performer. Bird’s intelligent humor and fearless critique earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. He continued to write, perform, and inspire fellow satirists until his passing in 2022.

Roy Thomas was born on November 22, 1940, in Jackson, Missouri. He began his comics career as a fan writer before joining Marvel Comics in 1965. As editor-in-chief from 1972 to 1974, he introduced new titles and expanded existing franchises. Thomas is credited with revitalizing Conan the Barbarian and launching characters like Wolverine and the Vision. He later worked for DC Comics, writing seminal runs on Justice League and Wonder Woman. His contributions helped shape the modern comic book industry and inspired generations of creators.

Valerie Wilson Wesley worked as a journalist for The Plain Dealer and later The New York Times before turning to fiction. She is best known for her Tamara Hayle series, featuring an African American private investigator in Newark. Her novels explore social issues, race, and urban life with sharp insight and engaging plots. Wesley's work has earned Edgar Award nominations and critical acclaim. She has written over a dozen books and contributed to anthologies and short story collections. Beyond writing, she has served as an advocate for diversity and representation in literature.

Victor Pelevin is a leading contemporary Russian writer whose novels and short stories explore the absurdities of post-Soviet society through surrealism and philosophical inquiry. Born in 1962, he gained fame with works like Omon Ra, The Life of Insects, and Generation P, earning multiple literary awards. His writing combines dark humor, Eastern mysticism, and sharp social critique, resonating with readers worldwide. Pelevin keeps a low public profile, adding to his mystique. Translators and critics praise his inventive use of language and capacity to capture the zeitgeist of modern Russia.

Marjane Satrapi was born in Rasht, Iran, and witnessed the Iranian Revolution as a child before moving to Europe. She studied at the University of Strasbourg and began her career in the French comics scene. Her memoir 'Persepolis', published in 2000, received critical acclaim for its poignant portrayal of life during and after the revolution. The graphic novel was adapted into an animated film in 2007, which Satrapi co-directed and which won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. She has written and illustrated several other graphic works, blending personal narratives with political commentary. Satrapi continues to work in film and literature, exploring themes of identity, exile, and cultural conflict.