Putting the Science in Fiction
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.
Reviews
"The entries are brief, knowledgeable, and highly entertaining, like hearing an exasperated friend rant about his or her area of expertise.”Booklist
"Every writer should have a copy on his or her bookshelf.”
"The basic information is here as jumping off points, some delve into much more detail, and many offer up other resources to dig into the topics more deeply…a useful, well-written resource. Recommended.”
"One of the most entertaining and enjoyable books we have read recently. It is a thoughtful, engrossing, well-written and well-edited compendium of guidance on a wide range of subjects.”
"Putting the Science in Fiction is definitely a resource every writer should have in their toolbox.”
"The chapters are concisely written and easy to read. This book is for you if you’re interested in making more storytelling more accurate and interesting, whether your medium is comics, novels, film, or television, or you’re simply a curious nerd like me who finds books like this fascinating.”
"This book is a brilliant resource, both for writers and for those with a more general interest in science.”
"I found this book very helpful and think that as a resource I will be referring to it for a long time to come."
"[A] fabulous collection of articles about scientific topics of interest to authors. Topics are wide-ranging and include biology, medicine, computer science, geology, and space travel, among others.
"I recommend it to just about everyone—writers, readers—anyone looking to have some of their questions about habitable atmospheres, nanotechnology, and space flight answered"