Douglas Smith is a five-time award-winning author described by Library Journal as “one of Canada's most original writers of speculative fiction.”

His latest work is the multi-award-winning YA urban fantasy trilogy, The Dream Rider Saga (The Hollow Boys, The Crystal Key, and The Lost Expedition). Other books include the urban fantasy novel, The Wolf at the End of the World; the collections, Chimerascope, Impossibilia, and La Danse des Esprits (translated); and the writer's guide Playing the Short Game: How to Market & Sell Short Fiction.

His short fiction has appeared in the top markets in the field, including The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Amazing Stories, InterZone, Weird Tales, Baen’s Universe, Escape Pod, On Spec, and Cicada.

Published in 27 languages, Doug is a 4-time winner of Canada's Aurora Award, most recently in 2023 for The Hollow Boys, as well as the juried IAP Award for the same book. He's been a finalist for the Astounding Award, CBC's Bookies Award, Canada's juried Sunburst Award, the juried Alberta Magazine Award for Fiction, and France's juried Prix Masterton and Prix Bob Morane.

Praise

“The man is Sturgeon good. Zelazny good. I don't give those up easy.” —Spider Robinson, Hugo and Nebula Awards winner

“A great storyteller with a gifted and individual voice.” —Charles de Lint, World Fantasy Award winner

“His stories are a treasure trove of riches that will touch your heart while making you think.” —Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo and Nebula Awards winner

“Stories you can't forget, even years later.” —Julie Czerneda, multi-award-winning author and editor

Praise for The Hollow Boys

“Thrilling YA fantasy”  —BookLife (Editor's Pick) on The Hollow Boys

“A must-read for YA fantasy fans” —BlueInk (Starred review) on The Hollow Boys

“Inventive, engaging, and boundless fun” —Ottawa Review of Books on The Hollow Boys

Praise for The Crystal Key

“The richly inventive Dream Rider adventure continues” —BookLife (Editor's Pick) on The Crystal Key

“The engrossing second installment … This fast-paced story delivers in a big way.” —BlueInk (Starred review) on The Crystal Key

“A fun and engrossing superhero sequel.” —Kirkus Reviews on The Crystal Key

Praise for The Lost Expedition

“The explosive conclusion to this spectacular fantasy joyride." —BookLife (Editor's Pick) on The Lost Expedition