Science fiction is a field of literature that has great interest and great controversy among its writers and critics. This book examines the roots, history, development, current status, and future directions of the field through articles contributed by well-respected science fiction writers, teachers, and critics. The articles 'speculate' on what is science fiction, is science fiction serious literature, which writers are considered good science fiction writers, and where the genre of science fiction is headed with 21st-century writers. Contributors include Brian W. Aldiss, Kathryn Cramer, Samuel R. Delany, David G. Hartwell, Ursula K. Le Guin, Barry N. Malzberg, Darko Suvin, Michael Swanwick, and many other outstanding authors. Examining all genres and subgenres of science fiction writing, this book provides differing viewpoints on science fiction, making it a great basis for dynamic classroom discussions.

"Reading Science Fiction" brings together world class scholars and fiction writers to introduce the history, concepts and contexts necessary to understanding this fascinating genre.

Comprehensive and engaging, Reading Science Fiction includes:

* Explores a wide range of theoretical approaches to studying science fiction, such as gender studies, post-colonial studies and structuralism

* Maps the definitions and history of science fiction, including its origin, influences and parallel development with modern society

* Introduces major science fiction writers such as Arthur C. Clarke, Joanna Russ, Octavia Butler and Kim Stanley Roberts.

This work provides valuable insights into the world of science-fiction, this thought-provoking textbook makes learning how to read science fiction an exciting and collaborative process for teachers and students alike.