Terry Carr

Terry Carr was an influential science fiction editor, writer, and fan who left a lasting mark on the genre. Best known for his editorial work, he established the groundbreaking Ace Science Fiction Specials series, which introduced seminal works like Ursula K. Le Guin's "The Left Hand of Darkness" and Alexei Panshin's "Rite of Passage." Carr also edited the long-running "The Best Science Fiction of the Year" anthology series and the original story collection "Universe," cementing his reputation as a discerning curator of speculative fiction.

Born in Grants Pass, Oregon, Carr immersed himself in science fiction fandom from an early age, publishing fanzines and co-creating the legendary hoax persona Carl Brandon. His dual identity as both a professional and a dedicated fan earned him multiple Hugo Awards, including wins for Best Fanzine (1959) and Best Fan Writer (1973). As a freelance editor, Carr broke new ground by becoming the first to win a Hugo Award in that category in 1985. His career also included teaching at the Clarion Workshop, where he mentored emerging writers like Richard Kadrey and Pat Murphy. Carr remained active in the science fiction community until his death in 1987.