Octavia E. Butler was only 58 when she died suddenly at her home in Washington state. But in those 58 years, the speculative fiction author penned masterpieces that continue to offer guidance to modern readers, and in fact have only grown in relevance since her death.
But what were Butler's origins? What inspired her to write dystopian parables, unsettling stories of alien contact, and novels and short stories that explored the relationship between humans and power? In honor of Butler's birthday on June 22nd, The Portalist has created a visual timeline of formative moments from Butler's life, and some of her most significant achievements.
This timeline is a living document. Knowing the ongoing influence and power of Butler's fiction, The Portalist has no doubt that more posthumous accolades and achievements are to come.
Want more Octavia Butler? Download her books today!
Earthseed
A multiple Hugo and Nebula Award winner’s powerful saga of survival and destiny in a near-future dystopian America.
Lilith's Brood
The complete series about an alien species that could save humanity after nuclear apocalypse—or destroy it—from “one of science fiction’s finest writers” (The New York Times).
Seed to Harvest
The complete Patternist series—the acclaimed science fiction epic of a world transformed by a secret race of telepaths and their devastating rise to power.
Unexpected Stories
An NPR Books Great Read: Two never-before-published stories from the archives of one of science fiction’s all-time masters.
Kindred
Fledgling
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