One of my favorite things about being a scientist is that it often puts me in a position to help other authors. That was my central goal when I started the Science in Sci-fi, Fact in Fantasy blog series. Over the past two years, I’ve hosted almost a hundred articles, nearly all of which were written by guest contributors. Engineers, historians, doctors, linguists, and other experts have all shared their knowledge, along with their love of science fiction and fantasy.
I’m very proud of this series, so when my agent Paul Stevens asked if I’d like to put together a nonfiction book proposal on it, I rather liked the idea. This series is a deep trove of valuable information for SF/F authors, as anyone who’s stumbled on it and then lost two hours of their day can tell you. I learn something from each one that I put up. If they were somehow collated into a cohesive, organized reference that could be published, well, I think that would be pretty fantastic.
Paul and I worked together to create a nonfiction proposal, a learning experience for both of us. I also reached out to about 40 of my blog contributors to ask if they’d be willing to be part of this crazy idea. Everyone was on board, for which I’m incredibly grateful.
There are not many imprints that publish books like this, but Paul shopped our proposal around to a few houses. One of them, arguably the pre-eminent publisher of writing reference books, loved the idea as much as we did. I’m pleased to announce that Writer’s Digest Books has acquired World rights to Putting the Science in Fiction, edited by yours truly.
About the Book
Putting the Science in Fiction brings together scientists, physicians, engineers, and other experts to help writers:
- Understand the basic principles of science, technology, and medicine that are frequently featured in fiction.
- Avoid common pitfalls and misconceptions to ensure technical accuracy.
- Write realistic and compelling scientific elements that will captivate readers.
- Brainstorm and develop new science- and technology-based story ideas.
This won’t simply be a re-hash of the articles already on my series page. I’ll be working with my editor Cris Freese, the team at WD, and about 40 contributing authors to expand and deepen the coverage of relevant subject areas. There will also be at least six new articles that can only be found in the book.
Whether writing about mutant monsters, rogue viruses, giant spaceships, or even murders and espionage, Putting the Science in Fiction will have something to help every writer craft better fiction. Look for it in print and e-book in Fall 2018.
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Wow, this is fantastic! I hope the project goes smoothly. We need better Sci in our Fi.
This is awesome. Congratulations!!