Women in SF&F Encyclopaedia

Yesterday I received an invitation to contribute to a new 2 volume illustrated encyclopaedia about Women in Science Fiction and Fantasy which is scheduled to be published by Greenwood Press in 2007.  

The focus for the Encyclopaedia will be primarily, but not exclusively, on work in English from the 19th century to the present, covering fiction, nonfiction, film, television, art, comics, graphic novels, music and poetry. 

Volume I will consist of essays which will provide socio-historical context, analysis, and background information on key themes that cross genre boundaries. Two possible schemas are being considered for this volume. The final editorial choice will depend to some extent on the scholarship and interests of the chosen contributors. One approach is multi-genre essays, tightly focused in period. An alternate approach is single-genre essays covering larger historical periods.  

Volume II will consist of the A-Z component. These alphabetically
organized entries will focus narrowly on key figures and issues. Categories, which can apply to any of the media covered by the work, will include (but are not limited to): single entries on significant writers/artists/composers (primarily women but some men); group and background entries on a range of writers/artists/composers not covered in single entries; and single and group entries on characters and character types, genres, historical periods, national traditions, and major themes.

I have volunteered for single entries on J R R Tolkien, Patricia McKillip, Robin McKinley, J K Rowling, Terry Pratchett, Ursula Le Guin, Diana Wynne Jones, Buffy/Angel (Whedon), Fantasy, Quest Fantasy, and Children's/YA Literature, and one essay on Children's/YA: Girls and the Fantastic - I wouldn't have time to do more than one 5000 word essay before the September 1st deadline since I'm working 30 hours a week and whilst this is another paying writing project, I can't afford to give up work to write unless I get paid in advance (which isn't going to happen).

I'll let you know which topics I'm selected to do when I hear back from the editor. I am, of course, delighted (and flattered) to be asked to participate as it sounds like a fascinating project.