The book starts with a parallel chronology of significant events in the fields of science fiction stories, magazines, novels, movies/TV/radio, and fandom, from 1805 to 1976.

The book's thematic sections contain introductions by science fiction authors, and extensive bibliographies of science fiction works featuring each theme.

It includes extended essays on science fiction, called "Deep Probes".

The anthologist and editor Mike Ashley are credited in the book as "Principal Research Consultant".

The book earned favorable reviews from the American Library Association and other organizations that specialize in children's reading.