How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy

Media:	Paperback
Author:	Orson Scott Card
Publisher:	Writer's Digest Books
Release date:	01 September, 2001
List price:	~~$12.99~~
Our price:	$10.39 that is 20% off!

How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy

Average rating: Stars

Much of what he says is obvious, but no less important for that

Orson Scott Card is well known to science fiction (the Ender and Worthing sagas) and fantasy (the Alvin Maker saga) readers. He is also (apparently - I have no first-hand knowledge) a dedicated teacher and mentor to young writers (and young Mormons, for that matter, as he teaches Sunday School). In this short book he lays out what he sees as the ground rules for writing science fiction and fantasy. Although I do not agree with his argument that these two genres should be in the same aisle in the bookstore, he convincingly argues that writing these two genres is very similar.

He divides his book into several practical areas - world creation, point-of-view, how to handle exposition in an interesting way, etc. These topics are general for both s.f. and fantasy because the writer needs to convey the rules of the world (be it space travel or magic) in such a way that the reader learns about the world while also enjoying him/herself. He gives numerous examples from the current (and not-so-current) literature, by writers who should be familiar to readers of the two genres.

Unfortunately, much of his advice is obvious to anyone who has thought seriously about writing s.f. or fantasy. Having said that, however, it's not a bad idea to have these ideas reinforced because they are so basic. After all, if professional musicians play scales, writers can stand to be reminded of the basic writing rules that Card sets out. There is a lot of practical advice as well - how to break into the genre (by selling short stories to magazines), when to acquire an agent, where to look to find the addresses to publishing houses, etc.

This is a practical guide to the nuts and bolts of the technicalities of writing. For advice on writing itself, I prefer Stephen King's "On Writing" - it's more interesting (if esoteric) and more general. But this book by Card has lots of good information on the genre-specific issues, and also has more practical advice on the profession of writing.

How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy - Orson Scott Card

How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy

I found the book very instructive and provocative, with good examples, possibilities and ideas that would-be writers can draw upon.
The author's reference to actual writers' works and his take on why they were/are successful is especially good for the novice writer.
While I not agree with everything he says, I would recommend this book to anyone who would want to write science fiction and fantasy. I would also be interested in attending any of his workshops/classes if only I was not so far away - in Singapore!
Two caveats: His recommended reading list will keep you awake for the next three months! He seems to focus more on sf than fantasy.
Provokes, excites, challenges and disciplines the imagination. Short enough to be read quickly. Good reading for time-pressed urbanites.
Thank you, Orson Scott Card!

Reviewed by
ichiro
Singapore

Orson Scott Card - How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy

Undoubtedly the best reference on the basics of the craft.

After having read almost every available book on writing science fiction and fantasy specifically, I think that the combination of this volume and Crawford Kilian's "Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy" constitutes the most complete, practical and useful source of advice and information for any writer interested in stepping into or perfecting the craft of writing in either genre, in any form, any length or any language.
This concise, well-organized, award-winning reference on the fundamentals of writing genre fiction is written by one of science fiction and fantasy's most prominent contemporary writers. His conversational style, enjoyable and entertaining, is perfectly paired with the book's user-friendly format for a delightful and smooth reading experience, whether you peruse the book systematically, cover-to-cover, or simply consult it on specific topics.
The wide variety of subjects covered include an introduction to both genres, techniques on world creation (clothing, traditions, languages, geography), advice on story construction (characters, viewpoint, plot, theme), keys to good writing, (exposition, leads, hooks, language, grammar), and the business of writing (markets, publishers, classes, organizations, awards). Solid examples, taken from well-known titles as well as the author's work, masterfully illustrate the points being explained, while delightful anecdotes of the author's growth as a writer - his struggles, his mistakes, his triumphs - give inexperienced writers a clear picture of what being a professional in this business really entails.
The last sub-section of the book, "Life at Home," is a genuinely special bonus to any writer; in it the author offers in a matter-of-fact and straightforward way some heartfelt, inspiring advice on how to commit to the craft and be able live a good and fulfilling life as a writer.
While reading this book won't turn you into a great writer overnight - only lots and lots of writing practice and lots and lots of reading from the genre you want to write in will make you master the craft - from reading this book you can expect three basic things: a) to get a clear picture of the craft, business and life of writers; b) to acquire a thorough understanding of the essential elements of the fantasy and science fiction genres; and c) to discover invaluable advice, nifty tips, and helpful techniques from a published author on how to improve your craft and avoid some common pitfalls that could hinder your development as a writer.
If you are serious about creating science fiction and fantasy stories fit to print, then get this superb resource and follow its advice, and you'll stay on the right track, guaranteed.
Also recommended: "Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy" by Crawford Kilian.
--Reviewed by Maritza Volmar

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