Startling Stories: A Pulp Science Fiction Journey
Imagine a world where science fiction was not just a genre, but a gateway to endless imagination and adventure. That’s what Startling Stories offered from 1939 to 1955.
The Birth of an Era
When Mort Weisinger took the helm in January 1939, he laid the foundation for a magazine that would captivate young minds with its thrilling tales and imaginative covers. But as time passed, Startling Stories evolved, shifting from a bimonthly to a quarterly publication, and then back again to a bimonthly schedule in 1947.
The Juvenile Twist
Oscar J. Friend’s tenure brought a strongly juvenile flavor, introducing features like ‘Sergeant Saturn’ that catered to the younger audience. But as the market evolved, so did Startling Stories, with Sam Merwin Jr. taking over in 1945 and bringing it back to its roots of quality science fiction.
The Art of Covering Science Fiction
Earle K. Bergey’s iconic covers became synonymous with Startling Stories. Rugged heroes, desperate heroines, and alien menaces adorned the pages, making each issue a visual feast for the imagination.
The Golden Age of Science Fiction
Sam Merwin Jr. made Startling Stories popular and successful, bringing in notable writers like Jack Vance, Henry Kuttner, and C.L. Moore. Notable novels such as Fredric Brown’s ‘What Mad Universe’ and Charles L. Harness’s ‘Flight Into Yesterday’ graced the pages of this magazine.
The Editor’s Succession
Mort Weisinger, Oscar J. Friend, Sam Merwin Jr., Samuel Mines, Theron Raines, and Herbert D. Kastle each left their mark on Startling Stories. Each editor brought a unique vision to the magazine, shaping its evolution over the years.
The Price of Success
From 1939 to 1955, Startling Stories saw fluctuations in page count and price. Initially priced at 15 cents, it increased to 20 cents, then 25 cents, reflecting the changing market dynamics.
The Last Days of an Era
With the end of Startling Stories, the magazine merged with its sister publication Thrilling Wonder in 1955. This marked the end of an era that had captivated readers for over a decade.
The Legacy of Startling Stories
While Startling Stories may have ended, its legacy lives on through anthologies and reprints. From Off This World and The Best from Startling Stories continue to showcase the magazine’s rich history in science fiction.
As we look back on Startling Stories, it’s clear that this magazine was more than just a collection of stories—it was a portal to the future, a place where imagination and science fiction collided. Its legacy continues to inspire new generations of sci-fi enthusiasts.
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This page is based on the article Startling Stories published in Wikipedia (retrieved on November 30, 2024) and was automatically summarized using artificial intelligence.
