Society of Midland Authors Literary Award Nominated for the Bram Stoker Award Nominated for the Seyoun Prize Perhaps the most creative and innovative science fiction writer of all time, Ray Bradbury turned entertaining literature into an art form. With classics like Fahrenheit 451, The Martian Chronicles, and Dandelion Wine, Bradbury has earned himself a place in the pantheon of the world's writers, and his works have expanded society's collective imagination. In this first-ever authorized biography, the award-winning journalist Sam Weller was given the privilege of immersing himself in Bradbury's own world. Weller's instincts as a researcher, combined with access to private archives and previously unpublished letters from the writer, create a fascinating and remarkable story. Bradbury's entire life is mapped out minute by minute: his attempts to launch a career as an actor, his literary breakthrough in the crime magazines of the forties, and his lifelong romance with his wife Margeret. Here for the first time, every detail of this enigmatic writer's fascinating story is presented, revealing all the splendor, magic and mystery of a true literary legend. “This is my life!” It's like Sam Weller got under my skin, into my head and into my heart, it's all here." - Ray Bradbury "Authorized, but authentic and candid... You won't read this biography without finding your forgotten Bradbury books and wondering why you didn't do this sooner." - Chicago Sun-Times "Certainly this is the most revealing and mesmerizing look yet at Bradbury's mysterious Wonderland." – Austin Chronicle “An essential book for Bradbury fans. A fascinating, often bewitching story." – The New York Times “A very interesting story, informative, enjoyable and inspiring.” - School Library Journal "A fascinating look at one man's work—and the incredible evolution of the genre of alien literature." – Chicago Tribune