Isaac Asimov

One of the all time best storytellers. As a kid I stumbled on his I, Robot book of short stories that was at least 30 years old and it still held my attention. From there I've read alot of his work in the realm of fiction. Some of his really early stuff like Nighfall was excellent. There were some lousy short stories from that time as well. However, when you find out that many of those stories were penned in his late teens/early twenties how surprised should you be that there will be some duds.

Asimov is to Science Fiction what Tolkien is to fantasy. He published a bi-monthly zine in the 1980's with an editorial at the beginning of each issue. These editorials are some of the most fascinating insights into one of the 20th centuries greatest minds, peruse your local used bookstore's magazine section to try and find some of these gems.

Issac Asimov literally redefined science fiction as a genre. The combination of a strong plot line, genuinely interesting characters, and real attempt at extrapolation on what the world will become put him in a class all his own.

Asimov and Heinlein are the Shakespeare and Marlowe of Science Fiction. Lots of little mistakes here and there but the overall result is without equal.

One of the greats who had an appreciation for the science in science fiction. A talented editor as well.

My problem with him is, he doesn't write books, he writes collections of short stories. By the time I'm interested in what's going on, we're 40 years into the future.

The sheer volume of Asimov's work means there were some pretty ordinary offerings but when he was on the ball his gift for storytelling was immense. Truly one of the greats of S/F

A very prolific writer in many subjects. Once acclimatized to his writing by reading his fictional work, you can easily follow his non-fictional work. Start with his short mysteries.

A fantastically ceative and fiercely intelligent writer. He revolutionized the idea of science fiction, with special regard to sci-fi mysteries.

Great stuff, although if i have to be honest it's a bit scientific. I love science though so it makes no difference to me. The End of Eternity and The Gods Themselves are GREAT books!

A fantastic writer! His books made me want to become a writer. His excellent non-fiction writing supplements his great mysteries and science fiction. And what a great sense of humour!

The master!! Do yourself a favor and read everything he wrote. Some bad, and some good, but all delightful. The Foundation Series is a must read, and Norby is great for youngsters.

classic stuff; good but not great

The old stuff! and the short stories are the worthiest.

Classic, great ideas, great stories, lacks on style and characterization.

Odd writer. He seems more concerned with the scientific aspects of his stories than the characters, which I sometimes like. But he'll never be a favorite for that reason.

what i've read of asimov is excellent i definitly plan ot read more of his

Very good SF writer, I think. Especially the "Fondation".

Asimov is definitely one of the masters of the speculative fiction genre. The Foundation Trilogy is one of the most influential works in science fiction, and a good read besides. Also, Asimov is what I believe the template for all science-fiction writers should be: his interests extended beyond science-fiction to subjects ranging from Shakespeare to the Bible (_Asimov's Guide to Shakespeare_ is highly recommended!). His passing was truly a loss for the world, but he left behind a legacy that will last for a very long time.

His Foundation Trilogy, Robot Series, Empire Series, and his short stories are great. "Nightfal" is one of his best. When you go to your bookstore and see new books by him realise that he was such a great author that others want to immitate him.

Too much Science-Fantasy instead of Science-Fiction

The Robot novels, the Foundation series, his mystery works, over 400 books published in his lifetime - WOW!

A wonderful author. His robot stories are the best. He also has a wonderful sense of humor and.. what more can I say?

Asimov...words cannot express exactly how that man affected the world. Mearly thinking of his name is awe-inspiring.