A love letter to the science fiction genre by a writer, author, and fan.
What makes science fiction more than just stories about rockets and robots? Why do we keep coming back to tales of galactic empires, cryogenic sleepers, and faster-than-light travel? And what can the history of the genre teach us about where it’s headed next?
In Science Fiction from A to Z, author Joe Vasicek explores the building blocks of the genre that shaped his career as both a fan and an indie writer. From “A is for Audience” to “Z is for Zenith,” each chapter dives into a key concept, trope, or movement in science fiction—covering everything from golden age classics to the modern indie publishing boom. Along the way, Vasicek reflects on his own experiences writing dozens of novels and short stories, as well as the broader cultural shifts that have shaped fandom over the past decade.
Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a new fan just discovering the genre, or a writer looking to sharpen your craft, this book will give you a deeper appreciation for the rich legacy and boundless future of science fiction.
Originally published online for the 2013 Blogging from A to Z Challenge and updated in 2022.
