Our President Philip Pullman tops the Books section of the Debrett’s 500, ‘a positive endorsement and recognition of Britain’s 500 most influential people.’

Pullman is praised for his advocacy of authors’ and readers’ interests as well as his writing:

Pullman has campaigned against age and gender labelling of literature as part of the Let Books Be Books movement, and was patron of the Oxford Literary Festival until January 2016, when he resigned in protest at the lack of fees paid to speaking authors. Read more

Our Chief Executive Nicola Solomon has also been included, for the second year running:

… an exceptionally important voice in protecting authors’ rights. A solicitor by trade, Solomon has been an outspoken advocate for authors’ interests at the society in negotiations and disputes with publishers and agents. Read more

The ‘Books’ section of the list, compiled by an independent expert, also includes Hilary Mantel, who sits on our Council, as well as fellow members Julian Barnes, Paula Hawkins and Ali Smith.

Read the Books list

Read the full list