Picture an American editor who turned science fiction and fantasy into a dazzling playground of stories—meet John Joseph Adams! Born in 1976, Adams is the mastermind behind the Hugo Award-winning Lightspeed Magazine and the bestselling Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy series. Dubbed 'the reigning king of the anthology world' by Barnes & Noble, he’s shaped speculative fiction with a keen eye for diverse, boundary-pushing tales.
From zombies to spaceships, Adams has a knack for curating stories that spark wonder and challenge reality. His work as an editor, critic, and publisher has made him a cornerstone of modern sci-fi and fantasy. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore how this visionary carved his path!
The Making of John Joseph Adams
Born on July 31, 1976, John Joseph Adams grew up with a passion for storytelling that led him to earn a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Central Florida in 2000. His early career kicked off at The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, where he honed his editorial skills from 2001 to 2009 under mentor Gordon Van Gelder. This gig was his launchpad, immersing him in the vibrant world of speculative fiction.
By 2010, Adams was ready to blaze his own trail. He launched Lightspeed Magazine, an online sci-fi powerhouse, and later took the helm of Fantasy Magazine and Nightmare Magazine. His ability to spot compelling stories and champion new voices quickly earned him a stellar reputation in the genre.
John Joseph Adams’s Unforgettable Anthologies
Adams’s anthologies are like treasure chests of speculative fiction, each brimming with bold ideas and unforgettable narratives. His Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy series, launched in 2015, showcases the year’s top stories, blending classic genre tropes with fresh, diverse perspectives. Guest editors like Rebecca Roanhorse and R.F. Kuang have joined him to curate tales that explore what it means to be human in fantastical worlds.
Other standout works include Wastelands, a gripping dive into post-apocalyptic survival, and The Living Dead, a zombie anthology so chilling it was named one of Publishers Weekly’s 'Best Books of the Year.' Out There Screaming, co-edited with Jordan Peele, tackles Black horror with raw intensity, while The Mad Scientist’s Guide to World Domination unleashes delightfully deranged sci-fi schemes. Adams’s editorial style is fearless, embracing everything from ancient magic to futuristic tech with a focus on inclusivity and innovation.
His Hugo Award-winning Lightspeed Magazine is a beacon for short fiction, publishing stories that push boundaries and earn critical acclaim. Whether it’s a tale of interstellar adventure or a haunting fantasy, Adams ensures every story pops with imagination and emotional depth.
Why John Joseph Adams Matters
John Joseph Adams isn’t just an editor—he’s a game-changer in speculative fiction. His anthologies and magazines have amplified underrepresented voices, from BIPOC to LGBTQ+ creators, making the genre more inclusive. His work with Kobold Press and Monte Cook Games on tabletop roleplaying projects shows his versatility, blending narrative flair with immersive world-building.
With two Hugo Awards, a Stoker, a Locus, and multiple World Fantasy Award nominations, Adams’s impact is undeniable. He’s inspired countless writers and readers to embrace the unknown, proving that stories can reshape how we see the world. His legacy is a vibrant, ever-expanding universe of ideas that invites everyone to dream bigger.
About John Joseph Adams
- Born: July 31, 1976
- Key Works: Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy, Wastelands, The Living Dead, Out There Screaming
- Awards: Two-time Hugo Award winner, Stoker Award, Locus Award, eight-time World Fantasy Award finalist
- Notable Role: Editor and publisher of Lightspeed and Nightmare magazines
Snag a copy of Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy or dive into Wastelands for a thrilling ride through Adams’s curated worlds. Your next favorite story is waiting!