Fantasy of the 20th Century: An Illustrated History

What do C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Mark Twain, William Morris, George MacDonald, Washington Irving, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle all have in common? They all have written fantasy novels/stories in one form or another, and in one type or genre or the other. This massive book gives an excellent detailed history of Fantasy fiction, including the writings of all the authors mentioned above. Moreover, the text is accompanied by some great illustrations, actual book covers, magazine covers, and art all aiding in the detail of the history presented. This book is quite thorough in its history, making mention of classics such as the Iliad and Odyssey, Greek, Roman, Celt, and German mythology, as well as Arthurian mythology and tales. What is more, the book details fantasy fiction from the early 1900's to the present day (the actual date of publication for this book). There are chapters devoted to the Pulps written from the early teens to the late fifties. H.P. Lovecraft, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Robert E. Howard, Fritz Leiber, and many more are detailed in the Pulp section of this work. The book also details what is known as 'High Fantasy' with works by Tolkien, Lewis, Terry Brooks, Peter Beagle, Piers Anthony, Terry Pratchett, and the like. All have works that are either historical sword and sorcery set in imaginary worlds with hybrid creatures, dwarfs, elves, warriors and the like. A genre which has become so popular that it dominates the fantasy market today. This book is a must for all fantasy fiction fans, collectors of fantasy novels and old pulp magazines, as well as for those who just love reading history and fantasy. The book is over 250 pages, filled with color art work, reads quite well and keeps the reader's attention throughout, all making it a wonderful addition to any library.

This is a very interesting book. I think the illustrations are easily enjoyed by collectors, enthusiasts and just the average reader alike.The commentary in addition to the images really gave depth to the Illustrated History. In addition, the formatting of the book, having sections for different strains of the fantasy genre, was very convenient.Overall, a very fun and visually stimulating book.

Randy Broecker's Fantasy Of The 20th Century deserves ongoing mention as an outstanding fantasy reference guide which should be a 'must' for any serious collector and reader. From the earliest fantasy mythology epics to later publications and modern authors from H. Rider Haggard to Robert Howard, Fantasy Of The 20th Century surveys the major publications of the 20th century. A highly recommended reference, this is packed with color photos and insights alike.

Solid fans of fantasy writing and the genre's history will appreciate Randy Broecker's Fantasy Of The 20th Century, a superbly presented survey of fantasy creators and their worlds. Full-page color photos of fantasy publications from magazines to pulp fiction accompany a coverage of notable authors, plots, and series titles alike. This will prove an especially inviting gift for that avid fan who 'has everything'.