Authors like H.G. Wells might be included. He is a pioneer in science fiction with works like 'The War of the Worlds'.
There could be many others. Arthur C. Clarke, for example, who wrote '2001: A Space Odyssey'. His works often dealt with space exploration and advanced technology. Also, Ursula K. Le Guin, with her unique takes on different worlds and societies in books like 'The Left Hand of Darkness'. These authors have made significant contributions to science fiction over the years and could be part of what the 'century of science fiction book' features.
Jules Verne could also be among them. His imaginative stories, such as 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea', had a huge impact on the genre. And Isaac Asimov is another likely candidate. His numerous science fiction works are known for their exploration of robotics and future societies.
Francis Godwin was also important. His works incorporated some early forms of science - fictional concepts, like space travel in a very primitive way compared to modern ideas but quite innovative for the 17th century.
Since the concept of science fiction as a distinct genre was not fully developed in the 2nd century, it's hard to point out specific 'authors' in the modern sense. But there were likely storytellers or scribes who incorporated elements of what we now call science fiction. These could be people in religious or academic circles who used stories to explain natural events or to imagine otherworldly scenarios. For example, some might have told tales about the heavens being a place of different beings, which is a kind of early science - fictional idea.
Neal Stephenson is one. His works often deal with complex technological and social concepts.
One of the notable authors in 2020 science fiction was Cory Doctorow. His works often blend technological concepts with social commentary. For instance, his stories might explore how digital rights and privacy play out in a future society filled with advanced technology.
One of the notable authors in 2023 science fiction was Kim Stanley Robinson. His works often explore complex scientific concepts and their impact on society. Another was Ann Leckie, known for her unique take on space opera and post - human civilizations. N.K. Jemisin also made her mark with her thought - provoking stories that blend science fiction with elements of mythology and social commentary.
Some of the well-known science fiction authors include Arthur C. Clarke. His stories often explore futuristic concepts and technological advancements in a captivating way. Another is Ray Bradbury, known for his imaginative and thought-provoking tales.
Since I don't know the exact contents of the 'Mammoth Book of Apocalyptic Science Fiction', I can only guess. Some contemporary authors who are known for their apocalyptic stories could be in there. For instance, Margaret Atwood with her 'Oryx and Crake' series which presents a post - apocalyptic world. There might also be lesser - known but talented authors whose works have been selected for this anthology, and they could bring fresh perspectives on the apocalyptic science fiction genre.
Often in such collections, you might find authors who are experimental in their writing. They could be relatively new voices in science fiction or established ones with a penchant for the extreme. However, without actually looking at the book, it's hard to name specific authors. But some might be those who like to explore very different concepts like the nature of consciousness in a technological age or the far - flung reaches of space exploration in a more radical way than traditional science fiction.
Kazuo Ishiguro. His works in the 21st century, like 'Never Let Me Go', explore complex themes such as human nature and mortality in a unique and thought - provoking way.
One of the most well - known 20th century science fiction writers is Isaac Asimov. He wrote many classic works, like the Foundation series. Another great one is Arthur C. Clarke. His '2001: A Space Odyssey' is highly regarded. Ray Bradbury is also a significant figure, with his collection 'The Martian Chronicles' being very popular.