Martin Greenberg

Martin Greenberg was an American book publisher and science fiction editor who made significant contributions to science fiction publishing in the mid-20th century. As the co-founder of Gnome Press in 1948, he played a crucial role in bringing important science fiction works to print, including Isaac Asimov's Foundation Trilogy. After serving in World War II where he earned five battle stars, Greenberg entered the publishing world through his association with New Collector's Group. His departure from this small press led to the formation of Gnome Press with David Kyle, which became one of the pioneering science fiction specialty publishers of the 1950s. Despite publishing notable works and authors, Greenberg's business practices were controversial, with several authors, including Asimov, expressing dissatisfaction over payment issues. Gnome Press ultimately ceased operations in 1962, after which Greenberg transitioned to mainstream editing at Abelard-Schuman before later running an art supply store. Greenberg's contributions to science fiction publishing were recognized with his induction into the First Fandom Hall of Fame in 2000. He passed away in 2013 at the age of 95, leaving behind a complex legacy in the science fiction publishing world.

Readers primarily discuss Greenberg's role as an editor and publisher rather than his own writing. Online discussions focus on his work at Gnome Press and his anthology editing. What readers liked: - High-quality book production and distinctive cover art from Gnome Press editions - Selection of authors and stories for anthologies - Publishing previously unavailable works in hardcover format What readers disliked: - Poor author payment practices at Gnome Press - Inconsistent quality across anthology selections - Limited distribution of published works Due to Greenberg's role primarily as an editor/publisher rather than author, traditional review metrics on sites like Goodreads and Amazon are sparse. His anthologies typically receive 3.5-4 star ratings when reviewed. Reader comments often note the historical significance of Gnome Press editions while acknowledging the business problems that plagued the company. As one reader on a science fiction forum noted: "Greenberg's Gnome Press books are beautiful artifacts from SF's golden age, even if the business side was a mess."

Coming Attractions (1957) - A collection of science fiction stories selected and edited by Martin Greenberg, featuring works by emerging writers of the 1950s science fiction scene.

Isaac Asimov is a foundational science fiction author whose work was published by Greenberg at Gnome Press. His Robot and Foundation series established core concepts in science fiction that influenced generations of writers.

Robert E. Howard created Conan the Barbarian and pioneered sword and sorcery fiction. Gnome Press published the first hardcover collections of Conan stories, helping establish the character's enduring legacy.

Robert A. Heinlein wrote influential science fiction that Gnome Press helped bring to mainstream audiences. His works deal with similar themes of space exploration and future societies that Greenberg recognized as important to the genre.

Arthur C. Clarke writes hard science fiction focused on space exploration and technological advancement. His technical yet accessible style mirrors many of the authors Greenberg chose to publish at Gnome Press.

L. Sprague de Camp worked extensively with sword and sorcery fiction, including editing Conan stories. He collaborated with many of the same authors Greenberg published and operated in the same literary circles of 1950s science fiction.