Books for science fiction and fantasy writers

There are lots of very good books on the craft of writing. But there are comparatively few on writing science fiction and fantasy. Below I attempt to put together a list of useful books on this very specific subject. 

As writers, we are all different in the way we learn and in the way we create fiction. Some of us don’t find it helpful to read books on writing but if that’s you I would encourage you to give it another go as I feel it’s a great way to learn. 

I’ve split the books into two groups. The first are books on the craft of writing, tailored to the specifics of our genre. The second are books providing knowledge useful to the science fiction and fantasy writer. It should come clear what the difference between these two groups is as we go.

So without further ado here are the books! All are available on Amazon.co.uk. KU means it’s available on Kindle Unlimited.

Books on writing science fiction and fantasy

Philip Athans, The Guide to Writing Fantasy and Science Fiction. (KU)

Philip Athans, Writing Monsters

Deborah Chester, The Fantasy Fiction Formula

Orson Scott Card, Philip Athans, Jay Lake and the Editors of Writers Digest, Writign Fantasy and Science Fiction

Adam Roberts, Get Started in Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy

Ed. Jason M. Waltz, Writing Fantasy Heroes: Powerful Advice from the Pros 

Jeff Vandemeer, Wonderbook

Worldbuilding

Stephen Gillett, A Writer’s Guide to Constructing Star Systems and Life Supporting Planets

Janeen Ippolito, Worldbuilding from the Inside Out. And Workbook.

Rebekah Loper, The A-Zs of Worldbuilding (Workbook)

Marc Rosenfelder, Language Construction Kit and Planet Construction Kit (KU)

Jesper Schmidt, Fantasy Map Making: A step-by-step guide for worldbuilders 

Ed. Janna Silverstein, The Kobold Guide to Worldbuilding

Other useful information

Charles L. Adler, Wizards, Aliens and Starships. Physics and math in SFF.

Steven D. Bloom, The Physics and Astronomy of Science Fiction

Ed. Dan Koboldt, Putting the Science in Fiction . Writing with authenticity in SFF.

Guy Windsor, Swordfighting For Writers, Game Designers and Martial Artists

Exercises

Ed. Laurie Lamson, Now Write! Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror

I hope you found these books for science fiction and fantasy writers useful. Tell me your thoughts in the comments below!