Marcia Joanne Bennett (born June 9, 1945, sometimes credited as M.J. Bennett),[1] is an American writer of fantasy and science fiction novels, including the Ni-Lach series and the novel Yaril's Children.
Marcia Joanne Bennett | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 9, 1945 Norwich, New York, United States |
| Pen name | M.J. Bennett |
| Nationality | American |
| Period | 1983–present |
| Genre | fantasy |
| Notable works | The Ni-Lach series |
Biography
editBorn in Norwich, New York, daughter of Richard (a carpenter) and Reatha (née Albright).[1] After graduating from Albany Business College in 1965, she worked in the banking industry as first a secretary and then a teller. She opened a craft shop in Earlville, New York in 1972, which came to serve as her writing studio.
About her work, Bennett states, "For me writing was a natural progression from years of being an avid reader. That, coupled with a penchant for daydreaming, led me to a hobby that quickly became an addiction. I choose to write fantasy and science fiction because they give me a freedom I do not find in other types of literature."[1]
Themes and critical response
editIn an interview with Contemporary Authors Online, Bennett said of her work, "Friendship and tolerance are my main themes."[1] Though her novels produced lukewarm reactions from some critics (The Encyclopedia of Science Fiction noting, "The local-colour quotient is high, though the sequence [of the Ni-Lach series] itself is unremarkable"[2]), other reviewers had more positive reactions.
Of her debut novel, Where the Ni-Lach, Publishers Weekly wrote, "Bennett's well-depicted characters, sustained sense of mystery and several clever plot twists make for a compelling read."[3] In a review of the second book in the series, The Emergency Librarian said, "The themes of understanding differences, personal responsibility and loyalty to friends, and a group of engaging protagonists enrich the standard adventure plot."[4]
The third novel in the series, Beyond the Draak's Teeth received a "recommended" review from Library Journal: "The values of freedom and friendship hang in a delicate balance in this sf/fantasy adventure."[5]
Bibliography
edit- Where the Ni-Lach (1983) ISBN 0-345-33123-0
- Shadow Singer (1984) ISBN 0-345-31776-9
- Beyond the Draak's Teeth (1986) ISBN 0-345-31776-9
- Yaril's Children (1988) ISBN 0-345-34844-3
- Seeking the Dream Brother (1989) ISBN 0-345-36001-X
References
edit- ^ a b c d "Marcia Joanne Bennett." Contemporary Authors Online. Detroit: Gale, 2008. Literature Resource Center. Web. 8 June 2016.
- ^ "Marcia J. Bennett," Encyclopedia of Science Fiction. viewed October 11, 2016.
- ^ "Where the Ni-Lach." The Publishers Weekly, Vol. 223, June 3, 1983.
- ^ Dewar, Christine. "Paperbacks for Young Adults", The Emergency Librarian, January–February 1985.
- ^ J.C. "Beyond The Draak's Teeth (Book)", Library Journal 111.5 (1986): 81. Academic Search Premier. October 10, 2016.
