Review: The History of Science Fiction Magazine Vol. 1 1926-1935

The History of Science Fiction Magazine Vol. 1 1926-1935 by Mike Ashley

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Part history of science fiction and part anthology, this book succeeds completely. Int he first section, Ashley details the beginnings of magazine science fiction in the pulp era, beginning with the publication of the first all science fiction magazine, Amazing Stories, in April 1926. He follows the history through 1935 pointing out when each new science fiction magazine premiers and discussing important editors, authors, and stories. In the second half of the book, Ashley carefully selects a representative story for each year covered. The stories are all excellent and give the reader a feel for the evolution of science fiction during the period.

I highly recommend this as a first text for someone wanting to systematically study the history of science fiction. As a long time reader I was familiar with some of the authors and stories but Ashley puts everything into context and provides the reader a solid foundation in science fiction history.



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