Galaxy Press | Susan Hanfield

What makes a science fiction or fantasy story unforgettable?

I got to explore this question (and so much more!) on the Writers & Illustrators of the Future podcast with host John Goodwin and several of my fellow narrators from the Writers of the Future Volume 42 audiobook: Stefan Rudnicki, Gabrielle de Cuir, Orson Scott Card, Jim Meskimen, and Scott Peterson.

We talked shop about science fiction, fantasy, and the stories that move us—diving into everything from how we got our start in audiobooks to what makes this anthology so special. Being surrounded by colleagues and friends, many of whom I’ve known since my earliest days behind the mic, was a true gift. What an honor it was to be a part of this conversation!

Writers of the Future Volume 42, written by L. Ron Hubbard, published by Galaxy Press and produced by Skyboat Media, just debuted as #1 on Audible and Amazon’s Hot New Releases in Science Fiction Anthology.

Tune into Podcast Episode 378 below:

Episode 378

Listen to Writers of the Future Volume 42 on Audible.

My heart is still so full from attending the 42nd Annual Writers & Illustrators of the Future Awards Gala last Thursday evening. To be in a room surrounded by so much love, joy and kindness, celebrating this year’s award-winning writers and illustrators from all over the world, was truly special.

As one of the audiobook narrators for Writers of the Future, Volume 42, published by Galaxy Press (releases April 28, 2026), I was so honored to be included in this magical night. A highlight of the evening was meeting the writers whose stories I had the joy of bringing to life: Canary by Brenda Posey and illustrated by Roddy Taylor; and A Girl and Her Dragon: A Life in Four Parts by Joseph Sidari and illustrated by Josie Moore, which I co-narrated with Stefan Rudniki. Reconnecting with dear audiobook colleagues and celebrating with friends both old and new made the evening even more meaningful.

Here’s a glimpse into this unforgettable night!

Thank you to the amazing team at Author Services, Inc. and to L. Ron Hubbard for founding these life-changing contests. Here’s to dragons, distant worlds, and the power of imagination! ✨