Science Fiction Book Publishers Key Terms

Navigate the sea of science fiction book publishers with knowledge

By Kathryn Keep

Understanding the key terminology of science fiction book publishers can help you on your way to a successful career in publishing or writing. Although many people lump science fiction in with fantasy, it is a separate genre with its own terminology. Genre fiction is growing in popularity, particularly in the young adult market. What is science fiction? Do you know your cyberpunk? What's the draw of post-apocalyptic stories? Would you write an Orwellian story? Are there advantages to print-on-demand? Should you consider publishing an eBook? By knowing science fiction book publishers key terms, you can answer some of these questions.

Science fiction

With genre lines blurring and writers creating subgenres, you may find it beneficial to have the term science fiction defined. In general terms, it is any story that uses science to answer the question "what if." Ultimately, it is up to individual publishers, agents and authors to decide what sort of science fiction to specialize in.
Try: The SF Site gives definitions of science fiction and defines what distinguishes it from fantasy.

Print-on-demand

Print-on-demand (POD) is a digital technology that allows you to print books one or two at a time rather than a large run on a traditional press. Books printed this way are substantially more expensive per book, but it can allow books to remain available without physical copies in a warehouse.
Try: Lulu is a well-respected POD publisher. The website takes you step-by-step through the process.

E-book

An e-book, also called an eBook, is an electronic book rather than a book in print form. It is possible to publish only in eBook form. As a relatively new publishing option, eBook rights are a hot topic in the publishing world.
Try: To see free examples of full-length science fiction eBooks, check out the Baen Free Library.

Cyberpunk

The main idea of cyberpunk is the fusion of man and machine. It tends to be very dark and dystopian with heroes fighting against technologically advanced controlling factions.
Try: Cyberpunk Review gives multiple definitions of cyberpunk, including the different aspects such as technology's negative effect on society.

Orwellian

Orwellian science fiction describes the polar opposite of a free society. Themes include government control and misinformation of the public.
Try: Absolute Astronomy defines and describes the key elements of Orwellian stories.

Post-apocalyptic

What happens after the world has ended? Turn the page in your favorite post-apocalyptic book to find the answer.
Try: Abe Books details the meaning of post-apocalyptic science fiction and recommends its favorite books in this category.