Alan Dean Foster
Alan Dean Foster: A Prolific Author of Science Fiction and Fantasy
Full Name and Common Aliases
Alan Dean Foster was born on November 19, 1946, in New York City, USA. He is commonly known by his pen name, "Al" or "A.D.F.", which has become synonymous with imaginative storytelling.
Birth and Death Dates
Birth date: November 19, 1946
Death date: Not applicable (still alive)
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Professions: Science fiction author, journalist, screenwriter
Early Life and Background
Alan Dean Foster grew up in a family that encouraged his love for storytelling. His father was a lawyer who had a passion for literature, while his mother was an artist. This exposure to creative expression laid the foundation for Foster's future career as a writer. As a young boy, he devoured science fiction and fantasy novels by authors such as H.G. Wells and J.R.R. Tolkien. After graduating from high school, Foster attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he studied English literature.
Major Accomplishments
Alan Dean Foster has made significant contributions to the world of science fiction and fantasy. Some of his notable achievements include:
Writing over 100 novels across various genres, including science fiction, fantasy, horror, and adventure.
Co-creating the Alien franchise, which includes films such as "Alien" (1979), "Aliens" (1986), and "Predator" (1987).
Adapting classic works of literature into novels, such as "The Power Lords of Dirigo" (1973) and "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" (1979).Notable Works or Actions
Some of Foster's most notable works include:
The Pip and Flinx series (1985-1996), which follows the adventures of a young alien boy named Flinx.
The Quor into Darkness series (2000-2001), a collection of novels that explores the mysteries of the universe.
Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979), which marked Foster's entry into the Star Trek franchise.
Impact and Legacy
Alan Dean Foster has left an indelible mark on the science fiction and fantasy communities. His works have inspired countless readers, writers, and filmmakers. Through his writing, he has explored complex themes such as identity, morality, and the human condition. Foster's collaborations with other authors and creators have resulted in some of the most iconic films of all time.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Alan Dean Foster is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:
Prolific output: With over 100 novels to his name, Foster has demonstrated an incredible work ethic and dedication to storytelling.
Influence on popular culture: His collaborations with other creators have had a lasting impact on the science fiction and fantasy genres.
* Commitment to imagination: Through his writing, Foster continues to inspire readers of all ages to explore the possibilities of the human imagination.
As a celebrated author and creator, Alan Dean Foster remains an essential figure in the world of science fiction and fantasy. His contributions have left a lasting legacy that will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
Quotes by Alan Dean Foster
Alan Dean Foster's insights on:
Growing up, I never gave a thought to being a writer. All I ever wanted to be was a traveler and explorer. Science-fiction allowed me to go places that were otherwise inaccessible, which is why I started reading it. I was going to be a lawyer, but I got saved.
He did not put his feelings down to simple xenophobia. Basically, he hadn’t expected the alien to be so completely alien.
Death displays nothing if not variety in its methods, which are often surprising and sometimes amusing.
She was nearly twenty, with dark hair, darker eyes, and a hint of something deeper within. There was a freshness about her that the surrounding harsh landscape had failed to eliminate. Anyone glancing at her would have thought her soft: a serious error of judgment.
Captain Phasma. Remember me?” He moved his weapon slightly. “Here’s my blaster, ya still wanna inspect it?” Phasma held on to her dignity. “Yes, I remember you. FN-2187.” Finn shook his head curtly. “Not anymore. My name is Finn. A real name for a real person. And I’m in charge now.
Besides the mistakes that are pointed out, I love the way readers become involved with the characters. When readers start asking about character motivations instead of concentrating on the special effects, it means you’re connecting with them on a personal level.
Curiosity, after all, was what had driven mankind out from his isolated, unimportant world and across the gulf between the stars. It had also, he thoughtfully reminded himself, killed the figurative cat.
A man with a gun may hunt a tiger during the day with some expectation of success. Turn out his light, put the man in the jungle at night, surround him with the unknown and all his primitive fears return. Advantage to the tiger.
I see the Jedi mission as giving up a normal life in exchange for protecting the innocent. It’s a life of sacrifice. There are rewards, but also a certain degree of sterility.