Horace L. Gold's book How to Write Great Science Fiction, offers insights into the craft of science fiction writing.

Gold discusses the importance of ideas over accurate scientific predictions in science fiction, using examples from various authors and historical hoaxes. A significant portion details a mystery story written by Gold, exploring the strange deaths of wealthy elderly people. The book also includes a short story about a time traveler's adventures in the future and another short story about a boardwalk concessionaire cursed by a water gnome.

Finally, the text provides a brief overview of Gold's career and the publication of Galaxy magazine.