Non-Fiction

Strange Stars: David Bowie, Pop Music, and the Decade Sci-Fi Exploded

“If you like classic rock or classic science fiction, definitely check out STRANGE STARS for a truly worthwhile walk down memory lane. If you like both, consider this a must-have.”

Kirkus

“An adventurous guide through 1970s music zeitgeists, Heller’s work will pique the interests of those in search of something a little more cosmic.”

Publishers Weekly

“This is an impressive guide for anyone who wants to explore the ear-tingling sci-fi pop of the turbulent 1970s, and Heller very helpfully provides extensive notes and a detailed discography.”

Starburst Magazine

“STRANGE STARS is full of cosmic wisdom that will open your mind to alien melodies, and also make you hear your favorite classic rock and funk in a whole new way. This book taught me so much about the science fiction influences of some of my favorite albums, but also a ton of surprising stuff about how music shaped the worlds of science fiction. A totally indispensable guide.”

Charlie Jane Anders, Nebula Award-winning author of ALL THE BIRDS IN THE SKY

“STRANGE STARS is an ultra-engaging dive into science fiction’s impact on the rock and pop music we know and love. Heller’s exploration of where these fandoms intersect and become one is gloriously nerdy delight that expands far beyond Bowie. It connects the essential dots between the transportive work of J.G. Ballard, Jimi Hendrix, P-Funk, British New Wave, and Phillip K. Dick.”

Jessica Hopper, author of THE FIRST COLLECTION OF CRITICISM BY A LIVING FEMALE ROCK CRITIC

“There’s never been anything like STRANGE STARS before—a fantastic voyage through rock & roll history, decoding the sci-fi inspiration that’s always lurked at the heart of it. Jason Heller finds the interstellar connections between visionaries from Sun Ra to Kraftwerk to P-Funk to Bowie, from The Left Hand of Darkness to The Dark Side of the Moon. This brilliant book makes you hear whole new strains of weirdness in music you thought you already knew.”

Rob Sheffield, author of ON BOWIE