Irish Science Fiction writer James White was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland on April 7, 1928 and died of a stroke in August 23, 1999. White spent much of his early life in Canada and lived with foster parents throughout his adolescence. He wanted to be a pilot but was diagnosed with diabetes which ultimately severely affected his eyesight. In 1955, White married Margaret “Peggy” Sarah Martin and the couple had three children; Patricia, Martin and Peter. White worked most of his life for aerospace builders Short Brothers Ltd., as his writing, even though published, was never fully sufficient to support his family.

James White wanted to be a doctor but due to finances could never obtain the education. That fascination never abated as he took classes in first aid and home nursing, and developed what would be an inspiration and prominent theme throughout his writing. His interest in medicine was the major thread that connected the work he is most known for, the Sector General book series that featured the stories and characters, both human and alien, of a hospital in deep space. Sector General was first published in 1957 as a novelette before expanding into the long running series of books. White considered himself a pacifist and veered away from the doomsday themes that permeated popular Science Fiction of the time. White, however, did incorporate Irish history and locations into his stories as found in his first novel, The Secret Visitors .In addition to the Sector General book series, White was also a prolific short story writer creating multiple story compilations including Federation World and Deadly Litter.

White was inspired by Science Fiction writers, Robert A. Heinlein and E. E. “Doc” Smith, and along with his friend Walter A. Willis, produced the science fiction fanzines Slant (1948-1953) and Hyphen (1952-1965). White and Willis were both nominated in 2004 for the retrospective Hugo Award for Best Fan Writer of 1953. Towards the end of his career, White was also a council member of the British Science Fiction Association along with fellow author Anne McCaffrey.

1928

James White was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland on April 7th.

1955

Married Margaret “Peggy” Sarah Martin.

1957

Published his first novel The Secret Visitors.

1957

Sector General was first published as a novelette.

1999

James White died on August 23rd.

2004

Co-nominated (with Walter A. Willis) for the retrospective Hugo Award for Best Fan Writer of 1953.