How to Write Science Fiction and Fantasy (Writer's Digest Genre Writing Series)

Rating:
Summary: Excellent book for beginners
Review: This is an excellent book for someone just getting started in the genre. His do's and dont's are indespensible (even as a refresher course for the advanced) though his examples are opinionated and dry. But because this is a book about HOW to write and not why we write, the most valuable information he shares is the art of conveying the most in as few words as possible. The masters of fantasy/Sci-Fi know how to accomplish this with dynamisim and grace. If this is what you want to learn, or you just want a refresher, then by all means buy the book but do not rely on it as your sole source of information.

Rating:
Summary: If you want to write SF...
Review: When I advise people on how to get published in the SF/Fantasy genre, I always recommend this book. Generally I object to "how-to-write" books for a variety of reasons, but this is a book that breaks my general rule. Card gives general sound advice with examples, lists the biggest "do nots" that he's run into, sets some straight-forward methods of submissions -- and most importantly gives some honest encouragement for new writers. If your book is good enough, it will get published. The proof is in the pudding -- I sold my very first book after reading this one, which is, after all, the true test of books on writing.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent and engaging discussion of sf/fantasy writing
Review: With clarity, humor, and the insight that marks him as one of the most powerful voices in contemporary science fiction and fantasy, Card provides the aspiring writer of speculative fiction an excellent framework to build upon, as he explores issues specific to this "literature of the strange", illustrated through clear examples taken from the works of establishes sf and fantasy authors. HOW TO WRITE SCIENCE FICTION AND FANTASY is a well-ordered and practical guide with a personal touch, an informed and intelligent discussion of the writing process beginning with the first stages of world creation and culminating with manuscript submission procedure. Highly recommended to writers in the speculative fiction genres. -- Hannah K. Power