James Coleman Nelson

(1940 -- 1997)

African-American author who was arrested for a series of burglaries in Cleveland in 1960 and sentenced to life in prison. Nelson turned his attention to writing science fiction, publishing two novels, Seeker from the Stars (1967) and The Null-Frequency Impulser (1969). Following his release in 1972, he was controversially invited to attend SFCon '73 as a Special Guest in 1973.

According to Arthur Hlavaty: It was an inspiring story. He started writing in prison, and SFWA discovered him and got him a parole, and two of his novels were published.

Unfortunately, they sucked.

Awards, Honors and GoHships:

• 1973 -- SFCon '73

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Person

1940—1997

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