Learn how science fiction and fantasy transformed over time from a marginalized genre into prestige literature in this video from the American Masters film Worlds of Ursula K. Le Guin. Renowned writer Ursula K. Le Guin helped to bring science fiction and fantasy into the literary mainstream and prove its value as a way to “train the imagination.” Support materials include discussion questions, vocabulary, and teaching tips to encourage students to explore the vast offerings of science fiction and fantasy literature.

Best known for her science fiction and “Earthsea” fantasy series, celebrated author Ursula Kroeber Le Guin (1929–2018) wrote 21 novels, 11 volumes of short stories, four collections of essays, 12 children’s books, six volumes of poetry and four of translation during her life. American Masters presents the first documentary film exploring the remarkable life and legacy of the prolific and versatile author. Produced with Le Guin’s participation, American Masters – Worlds of Ursula K. Le Guin tells the intimate coming-of-age story of the Portland, Oregon, housewife and mother of three who forever transformed American literature by bringing science fiction into the literary mainstream. Through her influential work, Le Guin opened doors for generations of younger writers like Neil Gaiman, Margaret Atwood, Michael Chabon, and David Mitchell — all of whom appear in the film — to explore fantastic elements in their writing.