Published by the SFX Magazine a few months ago… I might as well post it ehre as well :3 The top 5 Science Fiction and Fantasy authors, are undoubtably the top 5 bestsellers as well. Also, Im glad to say that I actually agree with most of the awards given here with possibly one exception… but that aside, here goes!
George R.R. 
Martin RANK 5
Oh yes. Famous both for critics and readers alike for his unforgiving vision of Winterfell in the Song of Ice and Fire series which began in his hit novel “A Game of Thrones.” I liked his writing style in his books, and the unforgiving way that he wrote the novel. It was realistic, despite the themes regarding magic, which lent to the utter desolation of the landscape (which was I suppose his intention.) All the characters were human, and everyone grew, matured, or gave up as normal humans did. For short, this is a world where heroism does not exist, and instead, is replaced by plots upon plots that could rival Melrose Place. Even the critics have found the themes “dark and cynical” and “hopelessly tragic.” As a friend so said, it was just too “depressing” while another friend said “it was brilliantly powerful!” – similarly, I expect a division of readers here to both like and dislike him. Happy Ending fans should seriously avoid him, but those with a sense for Shakepearean tragedies may just want to dip into his works. Well deserved fifth place, Mr. Martin!
Douglas Adams RANK 4
Hooray for English dry humor. Witty, Dry, and blatantly funny. That’s basically what Douglas Adams wrote in his (shall I say) masterpiece “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” While the critics were scarce in giving him praise, it was a hit for te more mainstream audience… and dare I say, I full agree with the audience in this one. There is something of a genius in this man’s writing, and his ideas are quirky, hilarious and out of this world. I may disagree that he should be in the top 5 (probably in the top 10, but top 5 is cutting it too close to the cream of the crops) him being a great writer is besides the question. “Thanks for all the Fish!” that says it all, for who could ever imagine dolphins being a higher life form than humans and the ‘Meaning of Life’ being a mere useless number?
Neil Gaiman RANK 3
The man that changed comicbook writing forever. Yes, thats Gaiman. Ever since his stint on writing adult-themed comic books, everyone in the industry caught on and followed the lead… but few could really reach the excellence he managed in Sandman. Gaiman is a “cook” of a writer, as he so aptly professed. And like a cook, his works can differ greatly – especially since he experiments a lot. I found a lot of his works brilliant, while some of his works disappointing, while some… utter garbage. But that does not stop me to appreciate those masterpieces he did write. Neverwhere will forver be in my top favorite books of all time, and American Gods beside it. His works in Sandman, Stardust, and his short stories in Smoke in Mirrors are incredibly imaginative, darkly witty and whimsical. Quite deserves his place in rank 3, if you ask me.
J.R.R. Tolkien RANK 2
Why is he number two? This is the man that made elves a household name, and Gandalf a little short code for Hippies. His works were made in years upon years, and covered with an accuracy for research and expertise for language. His works encompass both poetry and prose, and some history – despite it being fictional history, but history nonetheless. And most of all, decades after his death, everyone still finds Aragorn cool, and Gandsalf wise. To last the test of time is truly a huge success, but I can understand why he’s number two. Not everyone appreciates his writing style, as Moorcock aptly said that it was “Winnie the Pooh” literature. However, Moorcock is not in any means as successful as this man, and his words are worth little at this point. The fact is, Lord of the Rings, that classic – has captured the imagination of thousands of fans and writers alike. Same as Isaac Asimov’s gigantic contribution to scifi… Tolkien also has contributed to the formation of its current landscape.
Terry Pratchett RANK 1
Surprising? I think so. But undeserved? Absolutely not. Ever since I read “The Color of Magic” by Pratchett, one of his many books of the Discworld series, it has become an instant favorite. It’s almost like watching Monty Python, except reading it in a book. Filled with the genius of English humor, as well as a trademark Pratchett wit and imagination (who can imagine a flying gigantic space turtle as a planet?) – his works are almost instant classics, in that it does not only give us humor, but relate a deeper meaning beyond it all. Also cleverly placed are pseudo-scientific explanations on the magical physics of the world, lending it a very very British feel. Its almost reminiscent of “The Animal Farm” an odler classic which at first appears as nothing more but humor, but is actually a statement against both authoritarianism and oppression. And while Discworld has no overtly powerful message as thus, it is still powerful in its parody in just everything thats human. From statements on democracy and tyrants…Cohen’s (parody of Conan) heroism…and even to discussing insurance, eclectic tourism, and death. Brilliant read, and its not one of the hard reads either. Both for the intellectuals and the … duh… not-so-intellectuals around. Now, let me just leave and read up in my next Pratchett novel. Woot!
J
Nonsensical Rant:
Where’s Anne Rice? o_o
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