J. B. Post

J. B. Post served as a librarian and scholar who specialized in science fiction and fantasy literature. His most notable work was "An Atlas of Fantasy" (1973, revised 1979), a comprehensive collection and analysis of maps from fantasy literature. Post worked as the head of Special Collections at the University of Pittsburgh Library, where he developed significant collections of science fiction materials. His expertise in cartography and fantasy literature allowed him to create detailed analyses of imaginary worlds and their mapping conventions. Through his career, Post contributed articles to various academic publications focusing on science fiction, fantasy literature, and bibliographic studies. His work helped establish fantasy maps and fictional cartography as serious subjects for academic study. The influence of Post's "Atlas of Fantasy" continues in fantasy literature studies, serving as a reference point for authors, scholars, and readers interested in the cartographic elements of fictional worlds.

Very limited reader reviews or ratings exist online for J.B. Post's works. His "Atlas of Fantasy" has only a handful of ratings on Goodreads and Amazon. Readers appreciated: - The comprehensive collection of fantasy maps from literature - Detailed analysis of cartographic conventions in fictional worlds - Historical documentation of fantasy mapping techniques - Inclusion of rare and obscure fantasy maps Common criticisms: - Black and white reproductions limit map detail - Some maps difficult to read due to print quality - Limited availability and high prices for used copies - Brief analysis sections compared to map content Current ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (8 ratings) Amazon: No current listings or reviews WorldCat: No user reviews One reader noted: "An invaluable reference for fantasy cartography, though the print quality doesn't do justice to the original maps." The scarcity of reviews reflects the book's academic/reference nature and limited print runs rather than its quality or influence.

An Atlas of Fantasy (1973, revised 1979) A scholarly compilation and analysis of maps from fantasy literature, documenting imaginary worlds from various works including Tolkien's Middle-earth, Thomas More's Utopia, and numerous other fictional landscapes.

Diana Wynne Jones Created the essential "Tough Guide to Fantasyland" which analyzes fantasy world-building and mapping conventions. Her work bridges academic analysis and creative fantasy, similar to Post's systematic examination of fantasy cartography.

Brian Sibley Produced maps and companion guides for various fantasy worlds including Middle-earth. His focus on the detailed documentation of fictional geography aligns with Post's cartographic interests.

Alberto Manguel Combines scholarly analysis with explorations of literary worlds as both librarian and author. His work "The Dictionary of Imaginary Places" parallels Post's cataloging of fantasy landscapes.

Stefan Ekman Studies fantasy world-building through an academic lens with focus on spatial theory and mapping. His book "Here Be Dragons" examines the role of geography in fantasy literature.

Karen Wynn Fonstad Created atlases of fictional worlds including Middle-earth and Pern with detailed cartographic analysis. Her approach to mapping imaginary places follows directly in Post's methodological footsteps.