Science Fiction: A Critical Guide

This book, first published in 1979, explores science fiction as a serious and creative literature, featuring contributions from academic critics and novelists from Britain, America, and Europe. The essays establish the common properties of science fiction writing and assess its history and significance, covering the earliest imaginative journeys to the moon and later developments in British, American, and European science fiction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 19 May 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, first published in 1979, presents a comprehensive and insightful portrait of science fiction as a distinct form of serious and creative literature. Drawing contributors from across Britain, America, and Europe, the collection showcases a diverse range of voices, including well-known academic critics and emerging novelists. Through a series of essays, the book establishes the common characteristics and traits that define science fiction writing, while also critically assessing the history and significance of a field often characterized by unreliable critical judgments. Spanning a vast expanse of material, the book explores the earliest imaginative journeys to the moon, as well as the subsequent developments in British, American, and European science fiction.

The contributors to this book offer diverse perspectives and analytical approaches, contributing to a rich and nuanced understanding of the genre. They examine the themes, motifs, and narrative techniques employed in science fiction, exploring how these elements shape the genre's evolution and impact. The book also delves into the social and cultural implications of science fiction, examining how it reflects and refracts contemporary issues and concerns.

One of the key strengths of this collection is its ability to bridge the gap between academic analysis and popular appeal. The essays are accessible and engaging, making them suitable for both scholars and enthusiasts of science fiction. They provide valuable insights into the genre's past, present, and future, while also challenging readers to consider the broader implications of science fiction in our world.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich and complex world of science fiction. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on the genre, drawing on a wide range of expertise and perspectives. Through its essays, the book establishes the common properties of science fiction writing, assesses the history and significance of the field, and explores the social and cultural implications of science fiction. Whether you are a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the genre, this book will provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of science fiction's enduring power and influence.

Weight: 621g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367756345