Jonathan Strahan

Jonathan Strahan is an award-winning editor and anthologist specializing in science fiction, fantasy, and horror literature. Based in Perth, Western Australia, he has established himself as one of the most prominent editors in speculative fiction since the 1990s. Strahan has edited numerous acclaimed anthologies including the Eclipse series and the Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of the Year volumes. His editorial work through Eidolon magazine and Eidolon Books in the 1990s helped develop Australia's speculative fiction publishing landscape. He has been nominated multiple times for the Hugo, World Fantasy, and Locus Awards for his editorial work. Beyond editing anthologies, Strahan has served as Reviews Editor for Locus magazine and co-hosts the Coode Street Podcast discussing science fiction literature. The depth and range of his anthology curation has helped showcase both established and emerging voices in speculative fiction over several decades. His critical commentary and podcast contributions have also made him an influential voice in discussions about the evolution and direction of science fiction and fantasy literature.

Readers praise Strahan's skill at selecting diverse, high-quality stories for his anthologies. Reviews note his ability to balance established authors with new voices, and his knack for finding stories that push boundaries while remaining accessible. What readers liked: - Consistent quality across anthology series - Clear editorial vision that creates cohesive collections - Introduction essays that provide helpful context - Balance of different styles and subgenres What readers disliked: - Some anthologies felt too experimental for traditional SF/F fans - Occasional repetition of authors across different collections - Higher price point compared to other anthologies Ratings averages: Goodreads: Most anthologies rate 3.8-4.2/5 Amazon: Typically 4/5 stars Eclipse series: 4.1/5 average across volumes Best SF&F of the Year: 4.3/5 average One reader noted: "Strahan has an uncanny ability to find stories that stick with you long after reading." Another commented: "His taste leans literary, which won't appeal to everyone, but the quality is undeniable."

Eidolon I Early collection of Australian speculative fiction published through Eidolon magazine, featuring stories from emerging writers in the 1990s.

Gardner Dozois edited over 30 volumes of Year's Best Science Fiction and shaped the field through his editorial work at Asimov's Science Fiction magazine. His curatorial approach and commitment to both established and emerging voices mirrors Strahan's sensibilities.

Ellen Datlow has edited horror and dark fantasy anthologies for over 30 years, including Year's Best Fantasy and Horror series. Her focus on short fiction and dedication to developing new talent aligns with Strahan's editorial philosophy.

David G. Hartwell edited numerous influential anthologies including Year's Best SF series and helped define modern science fiction through his work at Tor Books. His broad knowledge of the field and eye for emerging trends matches Strahan's perspective on speculative fiction.

Ann VanderMeer edits experimental and literary speculative fiction anthologies that push genre boundaries. Her work with Weird Fiction Review and various themed collections shows similar editorial innovation to Strahan's projects.

Charles N. Brown founded Locus Magazine and shaped science fiction criticism through his editorial direction. His commitment to reviewing and documenting the field connects to Strahan's work as a critic and podcaster discussing genre literature.