The Writer's Guide to Fantasy Literature: From Dragons Lair to Hero Quest

From Library Journal
Most books for fantasy writers blend that genre with sf, but this work is an exception. Unfortunately, the entire first chapter (of 12) is devoted to "Pottermania," including "Eight Reasons Why Harry Is a Success," and a large amount of space is devoted (although more deservedly so) to J.R.R. Tolkien. The book offers little concrete instruction for writers, the most practical advice being found in five pages of the final chapter ("Submitting Your Work for Publication"); otherwise, most instruction is done by pointing to passages by successful authors. Included are such masters of fantasy literature as C.S. Lewis, Ursula Le Guin, and T.H. White, as well as peripherally related writers like Joseph Campbell and nongenre writers like John Steinbeck. This admittedly "inclusive" and "nonacademic" approach is overly generous at times. The slim volume doesn't dally with any one work, with the exception of Harry Potter, and can give the impression of rush and disorder; but the ten interviews with prominent fantasy writers do offer valuable insights. This guide provides a decent overview of an overlooked genre until a more thorough and organized treatment comes along. Recommended for academic libraries supporting broad writing programs and all public libraries. Angela Weiler, SUNY at Morrisville Lib. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.


The Midwest Book Review, January 2002
"Truly inspiring and insightful "must-read" for anyone looking to improve their fantasy writing."


The Midwest Book Review, January 2002
"The majority of its tips, and techniques would apply to the writing of science fiction, historical fiction, or genre novels!"


Peter S. Beagle, World Fantasy Award winner
“A genuinely valuable book, intelligently assembled and edited.”


Patricia A. McKillip [World Fantasy Award winner]
“I hope lots of young writers find this book; it has some very sensible advice.”


Lloyd Alexander, [Newbery Award winner]
“Rich with insights, it’s the best and most reliable guide to a multi-faceted and powerful literary genre.”


Book Description
The Writer’s Guide to Fantasy Literature offers an overview of the main styles of fantasy, with scores of practical tips and techniques, along with examples of great fantasy writing from today’s best mythic-fiction writers. This thoughtful guide will help you navigate your way from dragon’s lair to hero’s quest—on your personal path to success! Get advice on generating ideas, tips on planning, writing and revising, and how to submit your work for publication. Step inside and learn techniques from the experts like Joan Aiken, Peter S. Beagle, Ursula Le Guin, Terry Pratchett, and Jane Yolen. If you ever wanted to try your own hand at writing spellbinding tales of wonder, here is a wealth of advice from some of the all-time masters of the field!


About the Author
Philip Martin is the editor of The Writer's Guide series (connected to The Writer magazine, founded 1887), offering resources on how to write well and succeed professionally. He is a folklorist, author, and editor of award-winning books on cultural traditions.


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Most books for fantasy writers blend that genre with sf, but this work is an exception. Unfortunately, the entire first chapter (of 12) is devoted to "Pottermania," including "Eight Reasons Why Harry Is a Success," and a large amount of space is devoted (although more deservedly so) to J.R.R. Tolkien. The book offers little concrete instruction for writers, the most practical advice being found in five pages of the final chapter ("Submitting Your Work for Publication"); otherwise, most instruction is done by pointing to passages by successful authors. Included are such masters of fantasy literature as C.S. Lewis, Ursula Le Guin, and T.H. White, as well as peripherally related writers like Joseph Campbell and nongenre writers like John Steinbeck. This admittedly "inclusive" and "nonacademic" approach is overly generous at times. The slim volume doesn't dally with any one work, with the exception of Harry Potter, and can give the impression of rush and disorder; but the ten interviews with prominent fantasy writers do offer valuable insights. This guide provides a decent overview of an overlooked genre until a more thorough and organized treatment comes along. Recommended for academic libraries supporting broad writing programs and all public libraries. Angela Weiler, SUNY at Morrisville Lib. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.


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