Diane Duane

Diane Duane, Deepcon 11, 2010

Diane Duane is an American author known for her contributions to science fiction and fantasy literature. Born on May 18, 1952, in New York City, Duane has become a prominent figure in the genre, with a career spanning several decades. She is best known for her Young Wizards series, which began with So You Want to Be a Wizard in 1983, and has continued to captivate readers with its blend of magic, technology, and ethical dilemmas.

Early Life and Education

Diane Duane was born and raised in New York City. From a young age, she showed a keen interest in reading and writing, particularly in the realms of science fiction and fantasy. Duane pursued her education with a focus on nursing, graduating with a degree in the field. However, her passion for storytelling soon led her to transition from a career in health care to one in writing.

Career

Duane's writing career took off in the early 1980s with the publication of her first novel, The Door into Fire (1979), which was the inaugural entry in her Tale of the Five series. However, it was the Young Wizards series that truly established her as a significant figure in young adult fantasy literature. The series explores the adventures of Nita Callahan and Kit Rodriguez, two teenagers who discover they are wizards and use their powers to fight against the forces of darkness.

In addition to her work in fantasy, Diane Duane has made substantial contributions to the science fiction genre, particularly through her novels set in the Star Trek universe. Her Star Trek novels, including Spock's World and The Wounded Sky, are celebrated for their deep exploration of character and their contributions to the broader Star Trek lore.

Duane has also worked in television, contributing scripts for various animated series in the 1980s and 1990s, including episodes for Batman: The Animated Series and Gargoyles. Her ability to craft compelling narratives has made her a sought-after writer in both the literary and television fields.

Personal Life

Diane Duane has been married to fellow science fiction and fantasy author Peter Morwood since 1987. The couple resides in Ireland, where they continue to write and collaborate on various projects. Duane's experiences living abroad have influenced her work, bringing a global perspective to her storytelling.

Legacy and Influence

Diane Duane's work has had a significant impact on the science fiction and fantasy genres. Her Young Wizards series, in particular, is noted for its innovative approach to magic, its ethical complexity, and its appeal to both young readers and adults. Duane's ability to blend scientific concepts with fantastical elements has inspired a generation of writers and readers.

Her contributions to the Star Trek universe have also been influential, expanding the emotional and philosophical depth of the franchise. Duane's novels are considered essential reading for Star Trek fans, offering insights into the characters and worlds of the series.

Bibliography

Young Wizards Series

• So You Want to Be a Wizard (1983)
• Deep Wizardry (1985)
• High Wizardry (1990)
• A Wizard Abroad (1993)
• The Wizard's Dilemma (2001)
• A Wizard Alone (2002)
• Wizard's Holiday (2003)
• Wizards at War (2005)
• A Wizard of Mars (2010)
• Games Wizards Play (2016)

Tale of the Five Series

• The Door into Fire (1979)
• The Door into Shadow (1984)
• The Door into Sunset (1992)
• The Door into Starlight (TBA)

Star Trek Novels

• The Wounded Sky (1983)
• Spock's World (1988)
• Doctor's Orders (1990)
• Dark Mirror (1993)

Awards and Recognition

Over the years, Diane Duane has received numerous accolades for her contributions to literature, including nominations for the Hugo and Nebula Awards. Her ability to engage readers with her imaginative storytelling and complex characters has made her a beloved figure in the science fiction and fantasy communities.