March 12 is the birthday of Harry Harrison (1925-2012). Harrison was a major figure in the field while he was alive. Sadly, he has fallen into obscurity these days.

He wrote a number of science fiction series, some serious, some humorous and satirical. In addition to being a prolific writer, he was an accomplished editor. Among his editorial credits are The Best SF, coedited with Brian Aldiss (1967-1975), the original anthology series Nova (four volumes, 1971-1974), The Astounding-Analog Reader (two volumes, coedited with Brian Aldiss), and Astounding: the John W. Campbell Memorial Anthology.  He also briefly edited Amazing Stories and Fantastic in the late 1960s. Continue reading →