Locus Magazine Unveils Ambitious "Best Of" Anthology Series, Rapidly Surpassing Kickstarter Goals

Oakland, CA – [Date of Publication] – In a significant development for the science fiction and fantasy (SFF) literary community, Locus magazine, a venerable institution renowned for its comprehensive coverage of the genre, has announced the launch of a groundbreaking new anthology series: Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year. This ambitious initiative aims to combat a perceived decline in curated "Best Of" collections, offering readers a definitive annual guide to the genre’s finest short fiction. The inaugural volume has already achieved full funding on Kickstarter, underscoring the strong demand and enthusiasm within the SFF readership for such a project.

The series is designed to serve as an authoritative annual compilation, meticulously curated from Locus‘s highly respected Recommended Reading Lists. These lists, compiled annually by the magazine’s expert editorial team, have long been a trusted resource for identifying outstanding works across various SFF categories. The new anthology series, by distilling these recommendations into a single, high-quality volume, promises to be an indispensable resource for both seasoned aficionados and newcomers seeking to navigate the vast and ever-growing landscape of speculative fiction. Its immediate success on the crowdfunding platform highlights a collective desire to preserve and celebrate the genre’s rich short fiction tradition.

Main Facts

The core of this exciting announcement revolves around Locus magazine’s foray into direct publishing of an annual "Best Of" anthology. Titled Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year, this series is poised to become a critical touchstone for the SFF community, bridging the gap left by a noticeable decrease in similar publications. The project was launched via Kickstarter, a strategic move that allowed Locus to gauge community interest directly and secure funding without reliance on traditional publishing gatekeepers. The resounding success of the crowdfunding campaign, which saw the first volume fully funded in record time, speaks volumes about the SFF readership’s appetite for high-quality, expertly curated content.

Anthology Series Details

The Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year anthology series distinguishes itself by leveraging the extensive and trusted expertise of Locus magazine. Each volume will be meticulously assembled based on the magazine’s annual Recommended Reading Lists, which are the culmination of a year-long process of reviewing and evaluating thousands of short stories, novelettes, and novellas. This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most impactful and critically acclaimed works make it into the final collection.

The inaugural volume is set to be edited by the highly acclaimed and multiple award-winning anthologist, Jonathan Strahan. Strahan’s involvement brings a significant level of prestige and experience to the project. Known for his keen editorial eye and deep understanding of speculative fiction, Strahan has an impressive track record of assembling memorable and influential anthologies, making him an ideal choice to shepherd this new series. His curatorial skills are expected to elevate the collection, offering readers a thoughtfully arranged and impactful reading experience that truly represents the year’s best.

Kickstarter Success and Stretch Goals

The Kickstarter campaign for the first volume of Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year not only met its initial funding goal with remarkable speed but has also continued to attract substantial support, pushing towards various stretch goals. This rapid funding underscores the community’s hunger for such a series and its trust in the Locus brand and Jonathan Strahan’s editorial vision. The initial baseline goal ensured the publication of a foundational collection of stories.

However, the ongoing success of the campaign promises an even richer offering. Reaching all stretch goals would significantly expand the anthology, increasing its word count to nearly 200,000 words—equivalent to approximately 600 pages. This expansion would allow for the inclusion of all selected stories, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the year’s standout short fiction. Crucially, achieving these goals also enables Locus to double the amount paid to contributing authors, a vital commitment that directly supports the creators at the heart of the genre. This financial incentive not only rewards authors for their excellent work but also sets a positive precedent for equitable compensation in the SFF publishing landscape.

Chronology

The launch of Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year is not merely an isolated event but rather the latest chapter in Locus magazine’s long-standing commitment to the speculative fiction genre. Understanding the historical context of Locus and the evolving landscape of SFF anthologies is crucial to appreciating the significance of this new series.

The Genesis of Locus and its Role

Locus magazine was founded in 1968 by Charles N. Brown, and over the decades, it has grown into an unparalleled news magazine and trade journal for the science fiction and fantasy fields. From its humble beginnings, Locus quickly established itself as the authoritative voice of SFF, providing comprehensive news, reviews, interviews, and publishing data. It became the industry standard for tracking new releases, sales figures, and emerging talents.

Central to its influence are the annual Locus Recommended Reading Lists and the prestigious Locus Awards. The Recommended Reading Lists, meticulously compiled by the magazine’s critics and editors, serve as an invaluable guide for readers and professionals alike, highlighting works of exceptional merit across various categories. The Locus Awards, voted on by readers, have celebrated the best in SFF literature for over 50 years, often serving as an indicator of broader genre trends and critical consensus. The magazine’s enduring legacy and its deep engagement with the SFF community make it uniquely positioned to launch an anthology series that carries both critical weight and popular appeal.

The Decline of "Best Of" Anthologies

The Kickstarter text for Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year directly addresses a troubling trend: "There’s been a steady decline in the number of Best Of anthologies being published over the past few years." This observation resonates deeply within the SFF community, where "Best Of" collections have traditionally played a pivotal role.

The reasons for this decline are multifaceted. The economics of traditional publishing have shifted, often favoring novels over short story collections, which can be perceived as harder to market. The rise of digital publishing platforms and online magazines, while expanding the outlets for short fiction, has also fragmented the readership, making it more challenging for any single entity to capture the full scope of a year’s outstanding work. Furthermore, the increasing costs associated with acquiring reprint rights for multiple authors, coupled with tighter publishing budgets, have made "Best Of" anthologies a less financially attractive proposition for many mainstream publishers. This decline has left a void, creating a genuine need for a reliable, comprehensive, and expertly curated annual collection that can truly represent the best short fiction of the year.

The Call to Action: Kickstarter Launch

Recognizing this void and the enduring value of "Best Of" anthologies, Locus magazine decided to take direct action. The decision to launch the Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year series via Kickstarter was a strategic and forward-thinking move. It allowed Locus to bypass the traditional publishing hurdles that have contributed to the decline of such anthologies.

The Kickstarter campaign was initiated with a clear goal: to secure the necessary funds to publish the first volume, covering the essential costs of editing, author payments, design, and production. The campaign quickly gained traction, demonstrating the immense goodwill and trust the SFF community places in Locus. Within a remarkably short period, the initial funding goal was met, confirming the strong demand for the project. This rapid success not only validated Locus‘s assessment of the market need but also showcased the power of community-driven funding in supporting vital literary endeavors. The crowdfunding model also provides a direct connection between the publisher and its readership, fostering a sense of shared ownership and investment in the project’s success.

Supporting Data

The fundamental premise of Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year rests on the intrinsic value and unique contributions that "Best Of" anthologies offer to the literary world. The project’s structure, the expertise of its editor, and the caliber of its featured authors all provide compelling data points supporting its significance.

The Indispensable Role of "Best Of" Anthologies

The Kickstarter text eloquently articulates the importance of these compilations: "These compilations are a longstanding tradition in SFF and are so important in guiding readers to new authors, by showcasing a top-tier selection of science fiction, fantasy, and horror stories, novelettes, and novellas. They also do something no single magazine issue, no algorithm, and no individual critic can do: they shape the memory of a year in literature."

Guiding Readers: In an era of information overload, where countless new stories are published across myriad platforms, readers often face "algorithm fatigue." A curated "Best Of" anthology acts as a trusted filter, saving readers time and effort by presenting them with a carefully vetted selection of high-quality works. It introduces them to new voices and ensures they don’t miss out on significant stories. This function is particularly vital for emerging authors, as inclusion in a respected anthology can provide a significant boost to their visibility and career.
Showcasing Excellence: Unlike individual magazine issues, which reflect a specific editorial taste, or algorithmic recommendations, which can be opaque and biased, "Best Of" anthologies offer a broader, more objective overview of the year’s literary achievements. They represent a critical consensus, showcasing the stories that have resonated most deeply with critics and discerning readers.
Shaping Literary Memory: Perhaps the most profound role of these anthologies is their ability to "shape the memory of a year in literature." They serve as historical documents, capturing the zeitgeist of the genre, highlighting prevailing themes, stylistic innovations, and the evolving concerns of SFF writers. Future scholars and readers will look to these volumes to understand what was considered groundbreaking and essential in a particular year, creating a lasting legacy that transcends ephemeral publications.

Curatorial Expertise: Jonathan Strahan

The choice of Jonathan Strahan as editor is a significant indicator of the anthology’s commitment to quality. Strahan is widely regarded as one of the most prolific and respected anthologists in contemporary speculative fiction. His editorial career spans decades, marked by a consistent output of critically acclaimed and award-winning collections.

Strahan has edited numerous "Best Of" anthologies for various publishers, including his long-running Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of the Year series, which previously filled a similar niche. His work has consistently been praised for its discerning selection, its ability to identify both established and emerging talent, and its capacity to assemble collections that are both cohesive and diverse. His deep knowledge of the SFF landscape, combined with his proven track record, ensures that the Locus anthology will be a benchmark of excellence, providing readers with a truly representative and engaging collection. His involvement is a powerful endorsement of the project’s literary ambitions.

Featured Talents: A Glimpse into the First Volume

The initial roster of authors and stories announced for the first volume provides a concrete demonstration of the high standards Locus and Strahan are setting. The inclusion of award-winning and award-nominated works immediately signals the anthology’s top-tier quality.

Thomas Ha’s "In My Country": This short story has already garnered significant critical acclaim, winning a Locus Award and receiving a Hugo Award nomination. Both awards are among the most prestigious in the SFF genre, signifying a work of exceptional narrative power and thematic depth. Ha’s story is indicative of the kind of thought-provoking and impactful fiction readers can expect.
Somto Ihezue’s "We Begin Where Infinity Ends": This novelette has also received dual recognition, winning both a Nebula Award and a Locus Award. The Nebula Award, voted on by members of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, is a testament to peer recognition, while the Locus Award reinforces its critical success. Ihezue’s work promises imaginative scope and literary prowess.
Further Acclaimed Authors: The anthology will also feature works by Isabel J. Kim, Alaya Dawn Johnson, Sarah Pinsker, B Pladek, and Esther Alter, among others. These authors represent a diverse array of voices and styles within contemporary SFF, many of whom are themselves award-winners or regularly featured in top-tier magazines and year’s best collections. Their collective presence ensures a rich and varied reading experience.
The "More" Factor: The mention of "more" stories depending on stretch goals is not merely about quantity; it’s about the ability to present an even more comprehensive and inclusive snapshot of the year. Each additional story represents another unique voice, another brilliant narrative, contributing to a broader and more diverse representation of the genre’s annual output.

The Financial Model: Kickstarter’s Impact

The choice of Kickstarter as the funding mechanism is more than just a means to an end; it’s a testament to a changing publishing paradigm. This direct-to-consumer model empowers the community to directly support projects they value, bypassing the often risk-averse strategies of traditional publishers. For Locus, it means:

Financial Independence: The ability to fund the project independently, ensuring editorial freedom and control over the content.
Community Engagement: Fostering a direct relationship with readers, transforming them from passive consumers into active patrons.
Fairer Author Compensation: The stretch goal to double author pay is a direct result of the crowdfunding model, demonstrating how community support can lead to more equitable practices within the industry, recognizing the vital contribution of creators.

Official Responses

The official communication surrounding the Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year project has primarily come from the Kickstarter campaign text, which serves as a powerful statement of intent and a rallying cry for the SFF community. This text encapsulates the motivations and aspirations behind this significant undertaking.

From the Locus Team

The core message from Locus and the project team is one of renewed commitment to the genre’s short fiction tradition and a clear identification of a critical need. The Kickstarter text states: "There’s been a steady decline in the number of Best Of anthologies being published over the past few years. These compilations are a longstanding tradition in SFF and are so important in guiding readers to new authors, by showcasing a top-tier selection of science fiction, fantasy, and horror stories, novelettes, and novellas. They also do something no single magazine issue, no algorithm, and no individual critic can do: they shape the memory of a year in literature."

This statement is not just an observation but an urgent call to action, articulating the perceived vacuum in the market and positioning Locus as the entity best equipped to fill it. It emphasizes the magazine’s dedication to quality, its role as a guide for readers, and its responsibility in documenting the literary evolution of SFF. The project reflects Locus‘s enduring belief in the power and importance of short speculative fiction as a vital art form. The team’s decision to launch through Kickstarter signals their confidence in the community’s support and their desire to involve readers directly in the project’s success.

Editor’s Perspective (Inferred)

While no direct quote from Jonathan Strahan was provided in the initial announcement, his long and distinguished career as an anthologist speaks volumes about his likely perspective and motivations for taking on this project. Strahan has consistently demonstrated a profound passion for speculative fiction, a dedication to showcasing the genre’s finest talents, and a commitment to curating collections that are both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.

It can be inferred that Strahan shares Locus‘s concern about the dwindling number of "Best Of" anthologies and views this new series as a crucial opportunity to reinvigorate this essential tradition. His involvement suggests a belief in the enduring power of well-chosen short stories to capture imaginations, provoke thought, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue within SFF. His willingness to lend his considerable expertise to this venture underscores the project’s significance and its potential to become a definitive annual collection. His editorial philosophy typically emphasizes a blend of established masters and exciting new voices, ensuring a diverse and dynamic representation of the year’s literary output.

Community Reaction

The overwhelming success of the Kickstarter campaign serves as the most potent official response from the community itself. The rapid overfunding demonstrates a clear and undeniable demand for a Locus-branded "Best Of" anthology. This immediate and robust financial backing is a testament to several factors:

Trust in the Locus Brand: Readers clearly trust Locus magazine’s judgment and its long-standing reputation for quality and authority within the SFF field.
Appreciation for Jonathan Strahan: The involvement of a highly respected editor like Strahan instilled further confidence in the project’s potential.
Desire for Curated Content: The funding success directly validates the premise that readers are indeed feeling the decline of "Best Of" anthologies and are eager for a reliable, expert-curated guide.
Support for Authors: The enthusiastic response also suggests a community willing to support initiatives that prioritize fair compensation for authors, particularly given the stretch goals dedicated to doubling author pay.

The crowdfunding results are not just financial figures; they represent a collective affirmation of the project’s value and a strong vote of confidence from the very readers it aims to serve.

Implications

The launch of Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year carries significant implications for the speculative fiction genre, potentially reshaping how short fiction is consumed, celebrated, and remembered. This initiative is more than just a new book series; it represents a strategic response to evolving market dynamics and a renewed commitment to core genre values.

Reinvigorating the "Best Of" Tradition

The most immediate implication is the potential to reinvigorate the "Best Of" anthology tradition, which, as Locus noted, has been in decline. By establishing a robust, well-funded, and expertly edited annual collection, Locus sets a new benchmark and perhaps even inspires other publishers or organizations to follow suit. A successful, high-profile series could demonstrate the viability and demand for such collections, encouraging renewed investment in short fiction anthologies across the industry. This could lead to a healthier ecosystem for short story writers and a more vibrant landscape of curated collections for readers.

Impact on Authors and Readers

The series promises substantial benefits for both the creators and consumers of speculative fiction.

For Authors: Inclusion in a Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year anthology will be a significant career milestone. It offers unparalleled visibility, placing their work before a wide and discerning audience. The increased compensation, especially if stretch goals are met, directly supports authors financially, acknowledging the value of their creative labor. Furthermore, being recognized by Locus and curated by Jonathan Strahan adds considerable prestige to an author’s bibliography, enhancing their literary standing and opening doors to future opportunities. This could be particularly impactful for emerging writers, providing a crucial stepping stone in their careers.
For Readers: In a world saturated with content, the anthology offers a trusted, high-quality filter. Readers can rely on Locus‘s and Strahan’s expertise to deliver a concentrated dose of the year’s most impactful and imaginative short fiction. This saves time, reduces decision fatigue, and ensures a rewarding reading experience. The series will become an anticipated annual event, offering a reliable compass in the vast SFF universe and helping readers discover new favorite authors and narratives.

The Future of Locus

This new anthology series marks a significant expansion of Locus‘s role within the SFF community. Beyond its traditional functions as a news source, review aggregator, and awards body, Locus is now directly engaging in the curation and publication of literary content. This diversification solidifies its position as a central pillar of the genre, demonstrating its commitment to not only reporting on SFF but actively shaping its future and preserving its past. It positions Locus as an even more integral and multifaceted institution, deepening its connection with both the creative and readership aspects of speculative fiction. This venture could pave the way for other innovative projects from the magazine, leveraging its brand and expertise in new ways.

The Power of Community Funding

Finally, the project’s success underscores the growing power and importance of community funding models like Kickstarter in the literary world. It demonstrates that passionate readers are willing to directly support projects they believe in, especially when those projects address a perceived need or fill a gap left by traditional publishing. This model allows for greater creative freedom, direct engagement between creators/publishers and their audience, and the potential for more equitable compensation for artists. Locus Best Science Fiction & Fantasy of the Year stands as a powerful example of how a dedicated community can collectively bring vital literary initiatives to fruition, ensuring that important traditions continue to thrive in the modern publishing landscape. Its success may serve as a blueprint for future genre-focused literary projects seeking innovative pathways to publication and sustainability.