Thomas Joseph Bassler was an American science fiction writer and doctor, principally known for his 'Hive' stories. The first of these, published in GALAXY SCIENCE FICTION and IF, were combined into the novel HALF PAST HUMAN, which was nominated for the NEBULA AWARD in 1972. Loose sequel, THE GODWHALE, was also nominated three years later. His work explored the theme of overpopulation and was notable for its strong command of biological extrapolation. He died in 2011.
Bass demonstrated a thorough command of biological extrapolation and a sustained delight in the creation of a witty, acronym-choked language--THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF SCIENCE FICTION, -