No, it's not from a novel. The group is real:The Elders are an independent group of eminent global leaders, brought together by Nelson Mandela, who offer their collective influence and experience to support peace building, help address major causes of human suffering and promote the shared interests of humanity.The Elders are an impressive bunch: Martti Ahtisaari, Kofi Annan, Ela Bhatt, Lakhdar Brahimi, Gro Brundtland, Fernando H Cardoso, Jimmy Carter, Graça Machel, Mary Robinson, and Desmond Tutu. They also have two Honorary Elders: Aung San Suu Kyi and Nelson Mandela.
Check out their website here. (Thanks, Gloria)
