What do people who read sci-fi novels look for in a good story?
Q. I am writting some science fiction as well as other short stories as is one of my passions. I know a good book when I read one, but I'm wondering what people look for it a sci-fi book that is compelling and takes people away from the present and allows them to be deep into the story. Twists? Hard scientific facts used? Closer in timeline to the present or further? Male leads or female lead characters? romance elements? Space fights, aliens, desctruction, evolution, etc. What is it that hooks you?
Asked by guitarmusician84 - Sun Feb 15 07:54:33 2009 - - 8 Answers - 0 Comments

A. That depends on whether the story takes place in our present and future (advanced humanity) or as a stand alone universe with no relation to earth (a la star wars). where a unifiable history is present, i like to see how this new world was built upon our own, or what events in their past caused their timeline to differ from ours. The storyline has to deal with a problem that we are currently, or will soon be dealing with. Or at least a problem that has its roots in a unified past. This gives the reader some firm footing and allows them to become familiar with the story and characters. Good example: altered carbon, by richard morgan. In this novel, the timeline and unified history are perfectly created. Characters use slang that has its… [cont.]
Answered by pat s - Sun Feb 15 08:36:42 2009

Who would be a good agent to approach with a series of sci-fi books to publish?
Q. I have written (and had published) a sci-fi book previously and now have a series of books which will lead to a 5 book series. Who are good agents in the sci-fi arena to approach - many agents say they do not touch sci-fi at all.
Asked by Sci-fi_Author - Fri Dec 28 18:55:05 2007 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. 1) If your previous book was self published, say so up front. It isn't really a writing credit because your book didn't go through the scrutiny of being selected for publication, you just paid to do it. 2) NEVER tell a publisher or agent your book is a series. The first book should stand alone with a clear ending. If you tell an agent or publisher it's a series, they become very nervous and you will be rejected. No publisher wants to be stuck with a multi book contract if the first book tanks. On the other hand if the first book is a success, you will be able to sell the others for a better deal. 3) Get yourself the latest copy of Writers Market and start your search. There is no one answer to your question. Look not only at agents who… [cont.]
Answered by Persiphone_Hellecat - Fri Dec 28 19:23:41 2007

Are there any sci-fi novels that could be considered an analogy for the war on terrorism?
Q. Have there been any recent sci-fi novels that serve as an analogy for the war on terror currently being fought? And if so, are those stories told with a political viewpoint?
Asked by gothikork - Thu Oct 15 15:11:41 2009 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Read Little Brother by Cory Doctorow. It qualifies.
Answered by redunicorn - Thu Oct 15 22:03:20 2009