Thomas S. (Thomas Samuel) Gardner

Thomas Samuel Gardner (1908–1963) was a science-fiction critic, fan, and editor whose work appeared regularly in fan publications during the 1940s and 1950s. He became especially known for his annual “In Science Fiction” reports, which surveyed and evaluated the year’s magazine stories in remarkable detail.

Gardner served as a science editor or adviser for publications including Fantasy-Times and contributed to early fan culture in practical, inventive ways. He developed the “Science Fiction tests,” a playful but ambitious examination system that let fans demonstrate their knowledge of the field. Later accounts remembered him as an exceptionally dedicated reader who examined nearly every science-fiction story published in magazine form.

He was also associated with early science-fiction organizations and fanzines, including Fantasy Magazine and the Science Fiction League. No suitable verified portrait was located.