"I'm also happy that the list may draw more attention from young people, perhaps inviting them to pursue careers in writing," he said.

Wu started the list in 2006. Though he's been questioned by many for associating authors with wealth, Wu insisted that writers are respectable and deserve better lives for the works they've created.

"Writers should be as popular and beloved as celebrities," Wu said.

Wu even invited the listed writers, together with the publishers, to put on a red carpet event.

On Thursday, actor Chen Kun and actress Jiang Wenli walked the red carpet at the event to show support for the writers.

The two film stars have published books in previous years.

In addition, TV anchor Meng Fei placed 19th on the 2013 list, and director Feng Xiaogang made 60th.

Established authors Yu Hua, Jia Pingwa and Su Tong all published heavyweight novels this year and made the list.