Picture an Irish-born visionary who shapes the future of science fiction and fantasy with every anthology he edits—meet Jonathan Strahan! Born in Belfast in 1964 and raised in Perth, Australia, Strahan is a titan in speculative fiction, celebrated for his Infinity Project, Tor.com contributions, and the Hugo-winning Coode Street Podcast. With a knack for curating stories that spark wonder, he’s a guiding star in the genre.
Strahan’s journey is a tale of passion and persistence, blending editorial brilliance with a love for storytelling. From co-founding a niche journal to earning 19 Hugo nominations, his career is a testament to his influence. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this anthologist extraordinaire!
The Making of Jonathan Strahan
Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Jonathan Strahan moved to Perth, Western Australia, in 1968, where the vibrant landscape fueled his imagination. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Australia in 1986, laying the groundwork for his literary career. In 1990, he co-founded Eidolon: The Journal of Australian Science Fiction and Fantasy, serving as co-editor and co-publisher until 1999. This venture marked his entry into the genre, showcasing his talent for spotting compelling voices.
Strahan’s early career wasn’t just about editing; he was a critic and reviewer, too. In 1997, he joined Locus: The Newspaper of the Science Fiction Field in Oakland, California, honing his critical eye before returning to Australia. By 1999, he founded The Coode Street Press, a platform for his critical ‘zine, and began reviewing for Locus, where he’s been Reviews Editor since 2002.
Jonathan Strahan’s Unforgettable Anthologies
Strahan’s editorial genius shines in his anthologies, which have redefined speculative fiction. His Infinity Project, launched with Engineering Infinity in 2010, explores ambitious themes like space exploration and future wars. Reach for Infinity (2014) features 14 short stories from luminaries like Ken MacLeod and Peter Watts, tackling humanity’s cosmic aspirations. Critics praise Strahan’s ability to weave diverse voices into cohesive, thought-provoking collections.
Another gem is The Book of Dragons (2020), a Locus Award winner that reimagines mythical creatures through stories by Neil Gaiman and others. His annual Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of the Year series, running since 2007, is a genre staple, showcasing talents like Aliette de Bodard. Strahan’s style is inclusive and forward-thinking, blending hard science fiction with diverse perspectives, making his anthologies both timeless and timely.
Since 2014, Strahan has been a consulting editor for Tor.com, acquiring novels, novellas, and short fiction. His work on Eclipse Online (2012–2013) further cemented his reputation for championing innovative short fiction, even if the project was short-lived due to publisher changes.
Why Jonathan Strahan Matters
Jonathan Strahan’s impact on science fiction and fantasy is profound. His anthologies have launched careers, amplified marginalized voices, and pushed the genre’s boundaries. With over 70 anthologies and 20 single-author collections, he’s a curator of the genre’s evolution. The Coode Street Podcast, co-hosted with Gary K. Wolfe since 2010, has produced over 550 episodes, earning a 2021 Hugo Award and shaping critical discourse.
Strahan’s 2010 World Fantasy Award and multiple Locus and Aurealis Awards highlight his influence. His ability to spot trends—like climate change in Drowned Worlds (2016)—keeps speculative fiction relevant. For fans and writers, Strahan is a bridge between tradition and innovation, ensuring the genre thrives in a turbulent world.
- Born: 1964, Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Key Works: Infinity Project, The Book of Dragons, Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of the Year
- Awards: World Fantasy Award (2010), Hugo Award for Coode Street Podcast (2021), 19 Hugo nominations
- Podcast: Coode Street Podcast, over 550 episodes
Snag The Book of Dragons or tune into the Coode Street Podcast to dive into Jonathan Strahan’s vibrant world of speculative fiction!