Science fiction has been around for more than a century and has continued to evolve decade by decade.
From Dragonriders of Pern to Gideon the Ninth, there is a robust science fiction industry, which is a lot to take in. It can be pretty daunting to step into a space with so much going on. If you’re new to editing science fiction, here are a few tips to get you started.
Read it, listen to it and watch it!
The first tip I have has been echoed before: read the genre! Dive deep and swim wide. Science fiction has so much to offer.
Literary Terms defines science fiction — also known as sci-fi — as “imaginative, but based in science. It relies heavily on scientific facts, theories, and principles as support for its settings, characters, themes, and plot-lines.”
But there are also numerous sub-genres in sci-fi. Whether they’re space operas, supernatural fiction, fantasy, hard sci-fi or soft sci-fi, you can find so much joy in the stories.
Find out what sub-genres intrigue you the most. Reflect on the parts you like and don’t like so you can tailor your editorial service to the niche that brings you joy.
Understand genre conventions
Once you know what sub-genres you enjoy, the next step is to research genre conventions. For example, what makes a space western a western if it’s not set in the American Old West? Think of exploration — but instead of an Arizona desert, it is the frontier of space. What are all the things that can go wrong on a long journey? What can go right?
There is a lot of real-world commentary entrenched in science fiction. Be empathetic when you collaborate with an author. You want to guide them toward polishing their story while understanding that what the characters go through could be personal.
Science fiction also features technical details that “are usually possible according to science — or at least plausible.” You don’t have to be a rocket scientist, but having excellent research skills is a must for hard sci-fi or military sci-fi. I scour the internet to fact-check science, technology and engineering protocols (probably landing me on the “writer” FBI list for how many ways an explosion can happen in space!).
On the flip-side, soft sci-fi is less about the intricacies of deep science. As an editor, I tell the writer what parts don’t seem scientifically or magically possible so the reader can easily suspend their disbelief.
Embrace fandom spaces
Sci-fi fandoms have a substantial global footprint. Consider attending a local convention or conference and taking part in online fandom spaces. I suggest looking through Instagram, TikTok, Tumblr and author blogs. Google may help you find a Mighty Nest, Discord or Slack space for the fans as well. This will help you learn about the audience that you will be helping your writer(s) speak to.
Tapping into the fandom will also help you see where the genre has been and where it is going, as fans drive the industry just as much as the publishers. Fandoms often build around large properties like Star Trek or Star Wars, but you can find niche spaces for the smaller series as well.
Many writers are longtime fans of certain series, and understanding that inspiration will help you be a better editor.
Keep evolving
The final tip I have is to keep in mind that science fiction is constantly evolving. As an editor, you should be keeping up with the changes by reading new releases and keeping tabs on what books won the Hugo, Locus and other awards. Often those books will influence the next few years of stories.
Be open-minded about genre-blending choices that your writers may need help polishing. Just like how romantasy has taken the publishing industry by storm, there are always fresh voices expanding the sci-fi genre, and your expertise will be key in bringing them to fans.
As an editor, I am always excited to see something new and will often read a few high-profile books to learn what makes that category tick.
Final thoughts
To sum it up: indulge like a fan, do your research (and fact-checking) and be open-minded. There is so much to explore in science fiction. I hope to see you out on the “frontier” with me!
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Heather Romanowski
Heather Romanowski works with publishers like Wizards of the Coast, Elder Glade Publishing and Manuscripts, as well as independent authors and businesses. She edited Seanan McGuire’s Tangles, a 2022 Hugo Award nominee in the short story category. When she is not reading or editing, she is an avid gamer and gardener. She dabbles in journaling, yoga, rock climbing, mini-painting and baking. When she can, Heather indulges her wanderlust and visits as many historical sites, museums, gardens and local haunts as possible with her husband and dog. She lives in the Great Lakes state of Michigan, where she is a coordinator for the Michigan chapter of the Editorial Freelancers Association. She volunteers as community co-coordinator for the Editors Tea Club and is a member of ACES: The Society for Editing.