For over four decades, the demand for Star Trek stories has led to five television series, over seven hundred episodes, ten feature films, and an animated series. From the early short-story adaptations by James Blish in the 1960s to the original novels of the 1970s and beyond, fiction has significantly expanded the Star Trek universe. This exploration delves into why these books serve as a powerful creative outlet for some and a fresh way to engage with the Star Trek mythos for others. The work reflects on the first forty years of professionally published Star Trek fiction, showcasing the personalities and creative sensibilities of its contributors. It provides an insightful look into the creative processes, challenges, innovations, and progress within this literary landscape. Author Jeff Ayers has engaged with nearly six hundred books and interviewed over three hundred authors and editors to create a comprehensive guide to this unique publishing phenomenon. Fully illustrated with book covers, the work includes an index by title and author, as well as a detailed timeline, making it an essential resource for every fan.
