Mary Doria Russell

Russell has become widely known for her two novels which explore one of science fiction's oldest concepts - First Contact with aliens. In this framework she also explores the even older issue of theodicy (how does one reconcile the idea of a benevolent deity with pain and evil in the world).

Her fans have been eagerly awaiting her next book for several years, but a series of personal and family illnesses has produced a like series of setbacks. She has done major rewrites of the partial manuscript several times now. She currently hopes to finish the manuscript by the end of this year.

Russell lives in Ohio with her husband, Don, and her son, Dan.

Books in Print

• The Sparrow (1996)
• Children of God (1998)

She has received a number of honors:

• James Tiptree, Jr. Memorial Prize
• British Science Fiction Association's Best Novel Award
• Arthur C. Clarke Prize for Science Fiction
• John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer in Science Fiction
• Cleveland Arts Council Prize for Literature
• American Library Association Readers Choice Award
• Spectrum Classics Award
• Kurd Lasswitz Preis (German Nebula)

She has also been nominated for:

• Hugo Award
• Book of the Month Club Best First Fiction Prize