The SF Masterworks series, akin to what Penguin Classics represents for literature, has established itself as a significant tribute to essential science fiction works. Launched nearly two decades ago by Gollancz, which is now part of Orion Books, this series aims to keep classic post-war science fiction titles easily accessible. The stunning cover art featured on these books is a major draw, though the literary worth of the titles themselves is often what first attracts readers.
Notable entries in this prestigious series include Philip K. Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep, the basis for Ridley Scott’s iconic film Blade Runner, Frank Herbert’s celebrated Dune, and Richard Matheson’s classic I Am Legend. The series boasts over 100 titles, and we reached out to those behind the scenes to learn about its inception and ongoing impact.
Selection Process
Darren Nash, Digital Publisher at Gollancz, explains that SF Masterworks was initiated to preserve significant post-war science fiction works that had begun to fade from print. “The series was started because the then head of Gollancz, Malcolm Edwards, noticed several key titles had drifted out of circulation,” Nash shared via email with Gadgets 360. “By establishing this series, he aimed to create a collection of science fiction classics.”
The selection of titles is not determined by fan polls; instead, the Gollancz team carefully evaluates which works have made a lasting impact on the genre. “Using a TV analogy, if we were creating a Masterworks list of police dramas, Hill Street Blues would be chosen over Columbo for its revolutionary influence,” Nash explained.
Notably, the series features a substantial number of Philip K. Dick’s works, with 12 titles featured. Nash noted, “This was prior to my tenure, but it seems the editorial team had a wealth of titles already under contract and personal enthusiasm for Dick’s works influenced that decision.” While some titles may be up for discussion in terms of their merit, he maintains that several others firmly belong in the Masterworks collection.
Gollancz must also acquire rights for many of the titles in the series, as Nash elaborated, “Each of the initial fifteen titles was published under a new agreement, and we strive to release one book per month.”
In 2010, the SF Masterworks series underwent a rebranding. The previous versions, launched in 1999, featured numbered titles, which presented challenges for collectors. Nash described how the outdated cover designs were a motivating factor for the refresh: “We aimed to create a more contemporary look, as well as address the frustration of collectors who couldn’t complete their series due to missing titles.” By removing the numbering system, they alleviated the pressure of maintaining a complete collection.
Cover Design Innovations
The updated covers of the SF Masterworks series exhibit a vibrant aesthetic, prominently featuring the series name alongside the book title and author’s name. Tim Marrs, who designed the cover for Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, embraced the creative freedom allowed by Gollancz. “The design guidelines were quite flexible, which allowed for a unique artistic interpretation,” he remarked to Gadgets 360.
Marrs noted that many previous covers focused on the humorous elements of the story, but he sought to capture its deeper themes. “The challenge was to convey the isolation and chaos faced by Arthur Dent in a vast, surreal world,” he explained.
According to Nash, Gollancz aims for their covers to maintain a classic feel while allowing fresh artwork to enhance their appeal. This blend of tradition and innovation is apparent in the work of illustrators like Larry Rostant, who created the cover for Dan Simmons’ Hyperion using a mix of photography and digital techniques.
Despite the common perception that illustrators are avid readers of their respective titles, the reality can differ. Rostant, who has designed covers for prominent series including George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire, highlighted that selling the book remains the primary goal in cover design. “Our business focuses on creating appealing visuals that attract buyers,” he added.
Similarly, Marrs revealed that he had not read The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy in full due to time constraints, but he found an engaging audiobook version to help inform his design process.
Author Perspectives
Many authors welcome the opportunity for their works to be included in the SF Masterworks collection. Paul McAuley, author of Fairyland, expressed his satisfaction upon receiving Gollancz’s request for a reprint. “It was a pleasing acknowledgment that my book had made an impact,” he noted, mentioning the valuable opportunity for additional proofreading that came with the reissue.
McAuley did have concerns regarding the relevance of Fairyland’s themes as they pertain to contemporary issues. “Science fiction often grapples with the challenge of becoming outdated due to the rapid pace of technological advancements,” he commented. “While we have seen developments in biotechnology, the ease of editing genes as depicted in the novel remains elusive.” He acknowledged that despite significant progress, the full realization of the ideas in his book may not be as attainable as initially believed.
The cover for Fairyland features an image of the Eiffel Tower, which aligns with a key scene in the narrative, though potential copyright restrictions have prevented the use of other imagery that would have better encapsulated the book’s theme.
Patricia Cadigan, author of Synners, shared her delight at being part of the series. “Having been a fan of the SF Masterworks collection, it was a joy to see my work included,” she said, noting her appreciation for Gollancz’s long-standing support of her writing.
Cadigan incorporated elements of emerging technology in Synners, completed in the late ’80s, while also understanding that predicting the future is fraught with challenges. “I was pleased to discover that none of the concepts presented in my book have been rendered impossible,” she stated.
Best-Selling Titles
The SF Masterworks series features both hardcover and paperback editions, with varying popularity based on format and availability. “We strive to obtain rights to publish in multiple formats, although this is sometimes impeded by existing agreements with other publishers,” Nash explained.
The initial print runs for these titles range from 1,000 to 5,000 copies, with primary markets in the UK and Australia. However, sales in the US create a boost to the brand’s reputation, even if rights restrictions limit availability there.
Since the relaunch, top-selling titles within the SF Masterworks series include classics such as The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, along with other notable entries like Flowers for Algernon and I Am Legend.
Which titles in the SF Masterworks collection resonate most with you? Do you have a preference for these editions compared to others in the genre? Share your thoughts in the comments.
