author
Allan Howard
1913–1988
A mid-century science fiction writer best known for the thoughtful Mars story “It’s a Small Solar System.” His work also reflects the lively fan culture surrounding classic science fiction in the 1950s–70s.
1 Audiobook
It's a Small Solar System
by Allan Howard
About the author
Allan Howard (December 1, 1913–May 6, 1988) was a science fiction writer whose best-known work is “It’s a Small Solar System,” first published in Fantastic Universe in September 1957 and later preserved by Project Gutenberg. The story imagines humanity’s first crewed mission to Mars while blending adventure with reflection on changing ideas about heroism, progress, and civilization.
Howard was also active in science fiction fandom. Archival fanzines identify him as a director and secretary of the Eastern Science Fiction Association in Newark, New Jersey, with records documenting his involvement through the 1960s and 1970s. He was additionally connected with writing about classic adventure fiction, including an essay in The Blade of Conan.