This is the fourth volume in a series offering comprehensive critical overviews of the genres of science fiction, fantasy, and horror for a calendar year, here 1990. In addition to the features provided in earlier volumes, this annual adds a survey article reviewing children's science fiction and fantasy. This, with the surveys of science fiction, horror, young adult literature, and related nonfiction, makes this annual series the most complete source for critical commentary on these genres currently available.

In addition to the surveys, the volume offers review articles on the state of the art of the SF short story; the work of the year's major new fantasy authors; the significance and influence of H.P. Lovecraft's fiction; and an analysis of how YA fiction differs from adult literature. Author profiles are provided on Greg Bear, Charles de Lint, David J. Schow, and Andre Norton. Following a list of 1990 titles selected for major awards comes the general review section, where more than 500 fiction, young adult fiction, and nonfiction titles are reviewed by more than 100 reviewers. The volume concludes with a title index and an index to contributors. All in all, an essential reference tool for scholars and students of contemporary science fiction, fantasy, and horror and all libraries with collections in these areas.