Description:
Once again Fredrick Pohl has produced an outstanding mix of well-known and obscure fiction by some of the premiere writers in the science fiction and fantasy field in The SFWA Grand Masters: Volume 3, this time featuring Lester Del Rey, Pohl himself, Damon Knight, A.E. Van Vogt, and Jack Vance. The Science Fiction Writers of America (SFWA) Grand Master Award is a lifetime achievement award that is given to a living author for his or her contribution to the field of science fiction and/or fantasy. When Pohl was authorized to edit the three-volume set covering the then 15 Grand Masters, it probably seemed like the perfect number of books. Pohl states, "This is the third--and at least for the moment the last," but he undoubtedly recognizes that since more Grand Masters have been named since this series began, future editions seem likely. The SFWA Grand Masters: Volume 3 features an introduction by Pohl that examines important early editors in the field. The introductions to each author's pieces are highlighted by Pohl's special insider's view and a look at why each author deserved the title of SFWA Grand Master. Pohl's Grand Master introduction was written by "independent critic" and spouse Elizabeth Anne Hull. Pohl's remembrances offer a wonderful view of the history of how science fiction evolved, but the meat of the anthology lies in the stories by these superb authors. From the classic to the forgotten, this excellent selection of fiction helps remind us why these authors were named Grand Masters and why their stories should not be forgotten. --Kathie Huddleston
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