Known, predominently, for her media tie-in novels, Ann Crispin made a name for herself in mainly male-oriented industry. She wrote original works as well as novels in the Star Trek, Star Wars, and V universes.
While some may look down their noses at tie-in novels, Crispin’s work has often been pointed to as some of the best around. Indeed, her novel, Yesterday’s Son was the first Star Trek novel to break onto the NYT Bestseller list.
On a personal note, I think I can point to her novelization of the original “V” miniseries as one of the first (if not the first) Science Fiction book I ever read.
She passed away today after a long battle with cancer. She did manage to post a farewell message to her friends and fans on Tuesday:
I’ve been hesitant to make this post, but it’s time. I want to thank you all for your good wishes and prayers. I fear my condition is deteriorating. I am doing the best I can to be positive but I probably don’t have an awful lot of time left. I want you all to know that I am receiving excellent care and am surrounded by family and friends.
I wish all aspiring writers the will to finish and a good contract. Please continue to monitor Writer Beware and be careful who you sign with. Victoria Strauss and Richard White are there to help.
I’ve asked Michael to collect and read me your messages. As I don’t know how things will proceed, I don’t know if I’ll have the strength to post on Facebook again.
In addition to her writing, she was the founder and chair of the Science Fiction Writers of America’s committee against scams AKA Writer Beware.
She is survived by her husband and fellow Sci-Fi author, Michael Capobianco.
