Arthur C. Clarke (1917- ) is widely regarded as one of the best of the science fiction writers. He is the recipient of many awards, including the Hugo Award (1956, 1974), Nebula award, the SFWA Grand Master award in 1986, and a host of other awards. He was a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1996. Clarke is known for both his fiction and nonfiction. His Profiles of the Future was an important future studies effort. His novels are generally highly regarded. The best known novels include Childhood’s End, Against the Fall of Night, Earthlight, the Deep Range, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and Rendezvous with Rama. He authored many short stories, including The Star, a heavily reprinted story with religious overtones. He is perhaps best know for the book and movie versions of 2001: A Space Odyssey, one of the iconic works of science fiction.
From the guide to the Inventory of the Arthur C. Clarke - Playboy Papers: SCIF MSS 00234 ., 1960-1969., (Cushing Memorial Library)