Donald A. Wollheim (1914-1990) was a pioneering figure in the world of science fiction, whose influence reverberates through the genre to this day. Born in New York City, Wollheim was a voracious reader and began writing at a young age. His passion for speculative fiction led him to become one of the founding members of the Futurians, a group of science fiction writers and fans that included Isaac Asimov and Frederik Pohl.Wollheim's contributions to science fiction are manifold. As an editor, he was instrumental in shaping the genre's landscape. He founded DAW Books in 1971, the first publishing company devoted exclusively to science fiction and fantasy, which brought numerous groundbreaking works to the public. His editorial acumen helped launch the careers of many contemporary writers, including Ursula K. Le Guin and Michael Moorcock.Controversially, Wollheim was known for his strong opinions and editorial decisions, sometimes clashing with authors over creative differences. Despite this, his vision for science fiction as a serious literary genre was unwavering. He championed revolutionary ideas, often exploring themes of space exploration, alien civilizations, and the future of humanity, which have since become staples of the genre.Wollheim's legacy is not just in the stories he wrote but in the countless others he helped bring to life. His work continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers, cementing his place as a cornerstone of science fiction history.