This new volume by Booker in the 'Historical Dictionaries of Literature and the Arts' series is a worthy successor to Brian Stableford's earlier Historical Dictionary of Science Fiction Literature, reprinted in paperback as The A to Z of Science Fiction Literature. The entry for Stableford describes that book as 'the first edition,' suggesting that this volume was conceived as a second edition despite its slightly different title. This dictionary offers more current information, drawing on the author's considerable scholarship in the genre and nicely complementing his earlier volume in this series, The Historical Dictionary of Science Fiction Cinema. Alphabetically arranged entries cover topics including authors, subgenres, tropes, awards, organizations, and significant publications. Though its emphasis is on literature in English, attention is given to global science fiction. The introduction provides a concise overview of science fiction, including other media. A chronology covers works and events shaping the genre from the 18th century to the present. An extensive bibliography is arranged by topic, including thematic studies, national literatures, and individual authors. Though accessible to the general reader, this reference work is well-tailored to the needs of the science fiction scholar. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-level undergraduates through faculty; researchers; general readers.

Choice Reviews

The Historical Dictionary of Science Fiction in Literature is a wonderful reference book covering the topic of science fiction as it relates to literature. The book starts with a chronology that takes the reader step by step through the development of science fiction from it's very beginning right up to the present. . . .It is a very comprehensive and well researched reference tool. Everything is cross referenced throughout so as you are doing research you are constantly being guided to other topics to expand upon your knowledge. It is a fun book just to open to any page and pick up a bit of information about a person or thing in the science fiction field. The biographies of the authors are particular interest to me because I enjoy learning about people. . . .This is an ideal reference book for students, teachers and writers in general. . . .It is well worth adding to your bookshelf if you are a fan or writer of sci-fi.

Scared Stiff Reviews