Wonderbook : The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction

Wonderbook has become the definitive guide to writing science fiction and fantasy by offering an accessible, example-rich approach that emphasizes the importance of playfulness as well as pragmatism. It also exploits the visual nature of genre culture and employs bold, full-color drawings, maps, renderings, and visualizations to stimulate creative thinking. On top of all that, the book features sidebars and essays from some of the biggest names working in the field today, including George R. R. Martin, Lev Grossman, Neil Gaiman, Michael Moorcock, and Karen Joy Fowler. For the fifth anniversary of the original publication, Jeff VanderMeer has added an additional 50 pages of diagrams, illustrations, and writing exercises creating the ultimate volume of inspiring advice that is also a stunning and inspiring object. "If worldbuilding gives you an S-class migraine, never fear. There's one book that every speculative fiction writer should read to learn about proper worldbuilding: Wonderbook by Jeff VanderMeer. This handy how-to guide deserves a spot on your writer's bookshelf. . ." Bustle "In the gorgeously illustrated Wonderbook, Vandermeer generously gives away some of his tricks. Your dad can finally start that novel he's been talking about." Refinery29 "Even if you write stories already, there is a lot to be learnt here and it might also sort out any writer's blocks you have when you think you're written yourself into a corner. Reading how various authors get around this should at least prove no problem is insurmountable, even if you have to re-write your draft. Learn and digest." SFcrowsnest "Whether you're a novice writer wanting to get that story out of your head onto paper, or a seasoned author, you're going to find much to consider in this. Highly recommended. 10/10" SciFiBulletin "Wonderbook is one of the best books about writing I've ever read or experienced." – Nnedi Okorafor, Author "Aspiring writers of "imaginative fiction" - whether science fiction, fantasy or other kinds - are in for a treat: a new update to the fiction-writing guide "Wonderbook," by Jeff VanderMeer. . . it's gorgeous to page through and substantial enough to last new (or medium) writers a good long time." Space.com "VanderMeer ambitiously sets out to help readers get creative, and he does it with a rule-breaking book full of illustrations." The Portalist "This newly revised and expanded edition of VanderMeer's essential guide to crafting fantastic stories includes a great section on writing environmentally themed fiction." EcoWatch "Jeff VanderMeer is an expert in building strange and intricate worlds. . .In this gorgeously illustrated book, he shares his tricks.", Refinery29 gift guide