Remembering Trek Book Editor David G. Hartwell, 1941-2016

StarTrek.com is saddened to report the passing of David G. Hartwell, a respected science-fiction writer and editor who, among his many career highlights, was the former Pocket Books editor credited with creating the publisher's Star Trek line. Hartwell suffered a massive brain bleed on January 19 following a fall and hospitalization, and succumbed to its effects on January 20. The Salem, Mass, native was 74 years old.

Beyond his Star Trek work at Pocket, he founded their Timescape imprint (of which Star Trek was a part). He also edited at Signet, Berkley and Tor/Forge, served on the board of directors at the World Fantasy Convention and administered the Philip K. Dick Awards (with Gordon Van Gelder). He earned a total of 41 Hugo Award nominations, winning Best Professional Editor in 2006 and Best Editor Long Form in 2008 and 2009, and taught over the years at Harvard University, Clarion West, Clarion South and New York University. Further, he published several dozen anthologies, including The Dark Descent and The Science Fiction Century, and the popular annuals Year's Best SF and Year's Best Fantasy, as well as attended countless conventions, sold rare books, wore blindingly loud ties and shepherded/encouraged the careers of many aspiring and forever-grateful writers.

“Pocket Books and Simon & Schuster are saddened to hear of David G. Hartwell’s passing," the companies said in a statement. "He leaves behind the powerful legacy of his groundbreaking work and impact on science fiction, including the championing of unforgettable new adventures in the Star Trek universe via the Timescape imprint and beyond. We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Hartwell is survived by his wife Kathryn Cramer and their two children, as well as children from a previous marriage. Please join StarTrek.com in offering our condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and fans.