Why Dan Simmons Is Essential Reading, Part 1 of 3: Overview

Dan Simmons is perhaps best known for his science fiction Hyperion Cantos, horror novels Summer of Night and Carrion Comfort, and historical fiction The Terror. But what about the other 18 novels and three short fiction collections he's published in various genres over the past four decades? How do they stack up against his better-known works?

This is the first of three videos I'm making about Simmons. In this one, I provide an overview of his works, his influences, some of the recurring themes that appear in his books, why I think he's essential reading for fans of almost any genre, and why at times he can be frustrating to read.

The other two videos in which I review and tier rank his works:
Part 2: Tier ranking his horror and science fiction -    • Tier Ranking Every Dan Simmons Novel ...  
Part 3: Tier ranking his literary fiction, crime thrillers, historical fiction & short fiction -    • Tier Ranking Every Dan Simmons Novel ...  

1:42 Diverse literary output and awards
2:30 Writing influences and hallmarks
5:59 Themes
7:30 Why I think he's essential reading
10:29 Occasional frustrations

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