One of fantasy's most popular authors, Piers Anthony, is also one of the field's most fascinating and controversial personalities. His first volume of memoirs, Bio of an Ogre (1988), chronicled Anthony's first fifty years from his troubled childhood to his success as a writer, and raised eyebrows for its frank, outspoken comments on fellow writers, editors, and fans.

Now Piers Anthony continues his remarkable life story with How Precious Was That While, a volume sure to intrigue and entertain his many fans--and infuriate his critics. Focusing on the past 15 years of his career, the book also includes revealing episodes from Anthony's early years, scathing commentaries on the "bottom line" publishing mentality, and uncompromising views on human nature.

But the soul of the book is a heart-wrenching selection of letters and poems from Anthony's most ardent young fans, many of them deeply troubled, who have found in his writings a kindred spirit who understands both their anguish and their dreams.