Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of distant planets and magical realms, all from the heart of Saskatchewan—meet Edward Willett! This award-winning author, born in New Mexico and now a Canadian gem, has captivated readers with his science fiction, fantasy, and non-fiction works. With a voice that sings both on the page and the stage, Willett’s stories, like the Aurora Award-winning Marseguro, blend imagination with heart, making him a standout in speculative fiction.
But there’s more to Willett than his books. He’s a performer, a podcast host, and a publisher, bringing his creative spark to everything he touches. Ready to dive into his fantastic worlds? Let’s explore the life and legacy of this multifaceted storyteller.
The Making of Edward Willett
Born on July 20, 1959, in Silver City, New Mexico, Edward Willett moved to Saskatchewan at age eight, where the wide prairies fueled his imagination. After earning a journalism degree from Harding University, he kicked off his career at the Weyburn Review, sharpening his storytelling skills as a reporter and editor. By 1993, Willett took the leap to full-time freelancing, diving into fiction and non-fiction with equal passion. His early love for science fiction and fantasy, paired with a knack for performance, set the stage for a prolific career.
Edward Willett’s Unforgettable Stories
Willett’s bibliography—over 60 books strong—spans genres, but his speculative fiction shines brightest. Marseguro (2008), a gripping science fiction tale of genetically engineered Selkies facing a theocratic Earth, won the 2009 Aurora Award for its thrilling pace and rich world-building. Its sequel, Terra Insegura, continued the saga, earning a 2010 Aurora nomination. Under the pseudonym E.C. Blake, Willett crafted the Masks of Aygrima trilogy, a fantasy series blending magic and rebellion with young adult appeal.
His young adult fantasy Spirit Singer (reissued by Shadowpaw Press) won a Saskatchewan Book Award for its lyrical tale of a girl navigating a spirit-filled world. Willett’s recent work, The Tangled Stars (2022), offers a humorous space opera twist, showcasing his versatility. His style? Vivid characters, intricate plots, and a knack for blending science and magic with human struggles, all delivered with a performer’s flair.
Beyond novels, Willett’s non-fiction explores everything from J.R.R. Tolkien’s worlds to the Ebola virus, while his Worldshapers podcast, an Aurora Award winner, dives into the creative minds of fellow authors. Through Shadowpaw Press, he champions new voices, curating anthologies like Shapers of Worlds.
Why Edward Willett Matters
Edward Willett’s impact stretches beyond his page-turning stories. His work bridges Canadian and American speculative fiction, earning accolades like multiple Aurora and Saskatchewan Book Award nominations. By founding Shadowpaw Press, he’s nurtured emerging authors, while his podcast fosters a global community of storytellers. Willett’s ability to juggle writing, acting, and singing—often performing in Saskatchewan’s theaters—makes him a cultural force, inspiring readers and creators to embrace their multifaceted passions.
His stories, rich with themes of identity, resilience, and exploration, resonate with readers of all ages, proving that speculative fiction can both entertain and provoke thought. In a genre often dominated by big names, Willett’s steady output and community focus carve out a unique legacy.
About Edward Willett
- Born: July 20, 1959, in Silver City, New Mexico
- Key Works: Marseguro, Spirit Singer, The Tangled Stars, Masks of Aygrima
- Awards: Aurora Award (2009, 2019), Saskatchewan Book Award (2002)
- Fun Fact: A professional actor and singer, Willett has performed in Saskatchewan musicals and operas.
Snag Marseguro or Spirit Singer and dive into Edward Willett’s thrilling worlds of science fiction and fantasy! Whether you’re a fan of interstellar adventures or magical quests, this storyteller’s got something for you.