We live in a time where science is no longer just confined to the genre of science fiction. Evident in books, television, movies, graphic novels, Netflix original content, and more, science has been popping up in many different genres. However, like any other subject that requires research, it’s a must to keep a level of credibility on the subject. That said, the people at Writer’s Digest have recently published Putting the Science in Science Fiction: Expert Advice for Writing with Authenticity in Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Other Genres.
The Writer’s Digest’s own science fiction group, comprising of author and the book’s editor Dan Koboldt, Gwen C. Katz, Danna Staaf, Kathleen S. Allen, and Amy Mills, will be present at Mysterious Galaxy to discuss this one of a kind compilation. The book has collected articles Dan, a foreword from author Chuck Wendig, and a collection of never-before-published articles to connect would-be science writers with many experts in the broad field of sciences. Their insights serve to “debunk the myths, correct the misconceptions, offer advice on getting the details right, and help writers create more realistic yet engaging stories to satisfy discerning readers,” as Writer’s Digest’s website says. A must event for any writer or fan of science in literature.
Aside from his many articles, Dan has also written fiction for several years, his fantasy and science fiction novels including his three-book Gateways to Alissia epic fantasy series, The Build-A-Dragon Company, The Shattered Queendom, and The Non-Magician. Gwen’s debut novel is Among the Red Stars, a YA story about a young Russian girl who risks her life by flying a fragile canvas biplane to drop bombs on German soldiers, inspired by a true story of airwomen that the Nazis called “Night Witches.” Danna Staaf has a PhD in invertebrate biology, earned from Stanford University. She wrote Squid Empire: The Rise and Fall of the Cephalopods, which explores the ocean’s depths for hundreds of millions of years and explores these strange creatures that have inspired many a Lovecraftian tale.
This event is free and seating is first come, first serve. To get a book signed during one of our events, a copy of the event book must be purchased through Mysterious Galaxy. Event purchases through Mysterious Galaxy not only keeps our bookstore doors open, but also makes author signings possible.
Science and technology have starring roles in a wide range of genres--science fiction, fantasy, thriller, mystery, and more. Unfortunately, many depictions of technical subjects in literature, film, and television are pure fiction. A basic understanding of biology, physics, engineering, and medicine will help you create more realistic stories that satisfy discerning readers.
This book brings together scientists, physicians, engineers, and other experts to help you:
- 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.
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.
Putting the Science in Fiction collects articles from "Science in Sci-fi, Fact in Fantasy," Dan Koboldt's popular blog series for authors and fans of speculative fiction (dankoboldt.com/science-in-scifi). Each article discusses an element of sci-fi or fantasy with an expert in that field. Scientists, engineers, medical professionals, and others share their insights in order to debunk the myths, correct the misconceptions, and offer advice on getting the details right.
