1 of 22

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 3

worked into TV adaptations as with Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein." H. G. Wells' work has timeless appeal and quality that will no doubt appeal to new audiences for quite a long time to come.

4 Robert A. Heinlein, 1907-1988, Famous Work: Starship Troopers, (1959).

American author and influential writer often grouped together with Asimov and Clark in terms of importance in the field. His first novel written in book form (as opposed to targeting the magazine field) "Rocket Ship Galileo," was rejected on the grounds that travelling to the moon was considered too "far out" for the general public to believe. His works are often considered by many to tackle serious science fiction issues such as often labelled "hard science" which concentrates on technical detail, or on scientific accuracy. His novels in theme sometimes consist of a strange mixture of militaristic politics, with a liberal exploration of sexual freedom.

5 Arthur C. Clark, 1917-present, Famous Work: 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) expanded from his short story "The Sentinel."

Arthur C. Clark is a vast writer in the field of science fiction but it is the screenplay adaptation with Stanley Kubric which really stands out Arthur as a writer of deep significance in the field of science fiction.

6 Frank Herbert, 1920-1986, Famous Work: Dune (1965).

Easily one of the outstanding science fiction novels of the 20th century and often regarded as the finest science fiction novel of all time, regularly topping science fiction polls. Dune's lasting appeal lay in its connection with politics, religion, and ecology and the relation to the human science. "Dune," itself an epic within its own right, would spurn five sequels making Herbert a hero of the genre for all time.

7 Isaac Asimov, 1920-1992), Famous Works: The Foundation Series (1943+), Three Laws of Robotics (1954+).

With almost 400 titles to his name the famous Russian writer has perhaps contributed more works than many on the list put together and a short paragraph can hardly give him the credit he deserves. Known for the quality of his work as well as the sheer volume of his output Asimov remains and essential figure in the field of Science fiction.

8 Michael Crichton, 1942-present, Famous Works: The Andromeda Strain, (1969), Westworld (1973, film), Jurassic Park, (1990).

"Jurassic Park" shook the world when the film was released in 1990 smashing every box office records and taking computer generated technology to the edge and beyond. Though it is

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about The most famous science fiction authors?
We want to hear your view. Write now!