The Doctor Who Monster Book

by Terrance Dicks

Who is Doctor Who? and the monsters that have attacked the Doctor throughout his many lives… Up to and including Terror of the Zygons

Genres: Doctor Who, Science Fiction, Reference

64 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

About the author

Terrance Dicks was an English author, screenwriter, script editor, and producer best known for his extensive contributions to Doctor Who. Serving as the show's script editor from 1968 to 1974, he helped shape many core elements of the series, including the concept of regeneration, the development of the Time Lords, and the naming of the Doctor’s home planet, Gallifrey. His tenure coincided with major thematic expansions, and he worked closely with producer Barry Letts to bring a socially aware tone to the show. Dicks later wrote several Doctor Who serials, including Robot, Horror of Fang Rock, and The Five Doctors, the 20th-anniversary special.
In parallel with his television work, Dicks became one of the most prolific writers of Doctor Who novelisations for Target Books, authoring over 60 titles and serving as the de facto editor of the range. These adaptations introduced a generation of young readers to the franchise. Beyond Doctor Who, he also wrote original novels, including children’s horror and adventure series such as The Baker Street Irregulars, Star Quest, and The Adventures of Goliath.
Dicks also worked on other television programmes including The Avengers, Moonbase 3, and various BBC literary adaptations. His later work included audio dramas and novels tied to Doctor Who. Widely respected for his clarity, imagination, and dedication to storytelling, he remained a central figure in Doctor Who fandom until his death in 2019, leaving behind a vast legacy in television and children's literature.

Reviews

[Jennie Rigg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a reread of a book I have read MANY times; my copy is very dog eared. The text is a fun, fluffy recap of several of the Doctor's adventures, but the best thing about this book is the pictures: about 50% iconic stills from the show (Daleks crossing Westminster Bridge, Sarah-Jane with a spider in her back, Cybermen on the steps of St Paul's, etc) and about 50% Chris Achilleos target book covers which are just STUNNING, even in black and white.

I would recommend this book to any Who fan, if you can get hold of it.

[Paul Doody · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the very first Doctor Who non-fiction books, in which the programme's greatest exponent details many of the monsters seen in the first decade of the show. Wonderful illustrations.

[Becci · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you thought the new critters were cool...