Donald A. Wollheim

Date of Birth: October 1, 1914

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: November 2, 1990

Biography

Donald A. Wollheim was an influential American science fiction writer, editor, and publisher, born on October 1, 1914, in New York City. He is best known for his pioneering work in the science fiction genre, both as a writer and as a key figure in the development of science fiction publishing. Wollheim’s career began in the 1930s when he started writing short stories for pulp magazines. He quickly gained recognition for his imaginative and thought-provoking tales. Wollheim’s impact extended beyond his own writing. In 1943, he founded the influential science fiction magazine “Cosmic Stories” and later became an editor for Avon Books, where he helped bring science fiction to a broader audience. In 1952, he co-founded Ace Books, which became one of the leading publishers of science fiction and fantasy in the United States. Wollheim’s keen editorial eye and ability to recognize emerging talent helped launch the careers of many prominent authors, including Ursula K. Le Guin and Philip K. Dick. In the 1970s, Wollheim founded DAW Books, the first publishing company dedicated exclusively to science fiction and fantasy. Under his leadership, DAW Books published numerous bestsellers and became a cornerstone of the genre. Wollheim’s contributions to science fiction were recognized with numerous awards, including the Hugo Award and the World Fantasy Award. Donald A. Wollheim passed away on November 2, 1990, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of science fiction.

5 Interesting Facts about Donald A. Wollheim

1. Donald A. Wollheim was one of the founding members of the Futurians, an influential group of science fiction fans and writers in the 1930s.

2. He was instrumental in bringing J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” to American readers by acquiring the rights to publish the trilogy in paperback through Ace Books.

3. Wollheim wrote under several pseudonyms, including David Grinnell and Martin Pearson.

4. He received the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1980.

5. DAW Books, founded by Wollheim, was named after his initials, Donald A. Wollheim.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Donald A. Wollheim

1. “Science fiction is the most important literature in the history of the world, because it’s the history of ideas, the history of our civilization birthing itself.”

2. “The future is there… looking back at us. Trying to make sense of the fiction we will have become.”

3. “A good story is a good story, no matter who wrote it.”

4. “Science fiction is the jazz of literature.”

5. “The imagination is the golden pathway to everywhere.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Donald A. Wollheim’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but his lasting impact on the science fiction publishing industry and the success of DAW Books suggest he was both influential and financially successful in his field.

Children

Donald A. Wollheim had one daughter, Elizabeth R. Wollheim, who followed in her father’s footsteps and became a prominent figure in the science fiction and fantasy publishing industry. She is currently the president and publisher of DAW Books.