New Edition vs. Old Edition
This is a substantially revised edition of an earlier book (see cover image directly below) that I put together in 2002, called The Writer’s Guide to Fantasy Literature. That title was published as part of a line of instructional guides for writers. It fairly sold well (about 5,000 copies), but the company ended up dropping that entire line of books, and the rights to that title eventually reverted to me. In looking at re-issuing it, I felt that the material had broad applicability beyond writers of fantasy, and so have done lots of revision to make the key points about the diverse types of fantasy and the key building blocks of the genre interesting (I hope) to a general reader, while still offering many points of advice, ideas, and creative paths for writers.
– Philip Martin
[old edition:]
The Writer’s Guide to Fantasy Literature:
From Dragon’s Lair to Hero’s Quest
edited by Philip Martin (The Writer Books, 2002)
ISBN-10: 0871161958; ISBN-13: 978-0871161956
What are the differences?
1. The new 2009 edition is now oriented to a general audience of readers as well as writers.
While the new edition is still helpful to writers, I’ve cut most of a section devoted solely to general writing techniques. I felt most of that material was covered just as well elsewhere (in a profusion of writing guides).
2. In the new 2009 edition, I merged interviews into the main chapters.
In the old edition, I had interviews as stand-alone pieces. In the new edition, I’ve merged most of them into the text. I’ve also trimmed them a good deal, but for those interested, I’m posting a fuller text of the interviews here on the website.
3. It’s shorter!
As some famous writer said, “If I had more time, I would have written a shorter letter.” The old edition was 192 pages; the new edition is 144. It’s shorter, but better (in my opinion).
[new edition:]
A Guide to Fantasy Literature:
Thoughts on Stories of Wonder & Enchantment
by Philip Martin
Click here to order.
Crickhollow Books • On sale: June 15, 2009
Original Trade Softcover
144 pages, 6" x 9"
Literary Studies / Fantasy
$16.95 • ISBN: 978-1-933987-04-0
Praise for the original edition (A Writer’s Guide to Fantasy Literature):
“A genuinely valuable book, intelligently assembled and edited.”
— Peter S. Beagle, World Fantasy Award winner
“Rich with insights, thorough and knowledgeable, it’s the best and most reliable guide to a multi-faceted subject. At heart, it’s a work of deep love and understanding of a powerful literary genre.”
— Lloyd Alexander, Newbery Award winner
“The book is really practical and stimulating—unlike many in the field.”
— Joan Aiken, winner of the Guardian Award
“Practical and undogmatic … so well done that my recommended list [of books for writers] just got one book longer.”
— Charles de Lint, in Fantasy & Science Fiction magazine
“It’s a great deal of fun to read, and has some very sensible advice.”
— Patricia A. McKillip, World Fantasy Award winner