David Farland, a pseudonym for Dave Wolverton, was a writer whose influence stretched across multiple generations of science fiction and fantasy authors. Born in 1957 in the United States, Farland’s life journey was anything but ordinary. Before dedicating himself to writing full-time, he wore many hats — from working as a prison guard to serving as a missionary, to managing a business, and even baking pies. Each of these diverse experiences helped shape the distinctive voice that would captivate readers across the globe.
Farland’s writing is recognized for its depth and nuance, blending epic world-building with intricate character development. His most notable work, The Runelords series, introduced readers to a rich tapestry of cultures, powerful magic, and philosophical themes about power, sacrifice, and the human condition. With a career that spanned decades, Farland became a cornerstone of the speculative fiction genre, respected for both his literary contributions and his mentorship to young, emerging authors.
His breakthrough came with a victory in the prestigious Writers of the Future contest in 1987, which marked the beginning of a prolific career. Over the years, he crafted more than 60 novels, including his Runelords series and works like The Golden Queen and The Court of the Air, each known for their powerful characters and thought-provoking narratives. Farland’s work is not just about adventure and imagination; it’s a deep dive into what it means to be human in the face of immense challenges.
Beyond his own writing, David Farland made a lasting impact on the genre by nurturing new talent. His role as a mentor and teacher helped shape the careers of authors like Brandon Sanderson, Stephenie Meyer, and Brandon Mull. He was a passionate advocate for the craft of writing and shared his wisdom generously, both through his Writing Tips newsletter and as a mentor in the Writers of the Future contest, where he served as a judge.
Farland’s legacy is also marked by his impressive accolades, including a Guinness World Record for the largest single-author book signing. Though he passed away in 2022, his voice continues to echo in the works of countless writers and readers whose lives were touched by his stories and guidance. David Farland was more than an author; he was a mentor, a visionary, and a bridge between the past and future of speculative fiction, ensuring that his influence will be felt for years to come.
