Futuria Fantasia*

5b 2007 Ray Bradbury, Signed first hardcover edition with all four volumes from 1939 to 1940, only 300 copies; 65/300

Notes

Futuria Fantasia was an early science fiction fanzine created by Ray Bradbury in 1939 when he was just 19 years old. This short-lived magazine, based in Los Angeles, was one of Bradbury’s first forays into the world of science fiction and writing. Only four issues were published between 1939 and 1940, yet Futuria Fantasia holds historical significance because it was an early platform for Bradbury’s work and vision.

The zine featured stories, poems, and essays, and often included contributions from emerging writers and artists. Some notable contributors included Forrest J Ackerman, a science fiction fan and future editor, and Hannes Bok, a talented illustrator and pulp artist who provided artwork for the covers. Ray Bradbury contributed significantly under various pseudonyms, like “Ron Reynolds,” as well as under his own name.

Through Futuria Fantasia, Bradbury explored themes and styles that would later define his career, including imaginative storytelling and his unique blend of horror, fantasy, and science fiction. Although it had a small circulation, Futuria Fantasia helped establish Bradbury’s name in science fiction circles and marked the beginning of his journey toward becoming one of the most celebrated authors in speculative fiction.

Description

Black vellum hard cover with gilt lettering on the cover and spine with facsimile edition dust jacket. One of 300 numbered copies signed by Bradbury. Includes contributions by editor Ray Bradbury (who wrote using various pseudonyms), a short story “Heil,” by Robert A. Heinlein (under the pseudonym “Lyle Monroe”), Henry Kuttner, Damon Knight and others, and interior and cover illustrations by Hannes Bok. Cover art for a planned fifth issue and several other unused Bok pieces. Also includes an introduction by Bradbury with his recollections of producing the magazine and an interview with Bradbury and Forrest J. Ackerman conducted by publisher Craig Graham. Excellent condition with Pristine dust jacket and a slipcase.