A Comprehensive Guide to Doctor Who's Best Writers of TV Books and Audio

The rich tapestry of Doctor Who's storytelling extends far beyond its television episodes. The program's depth and complexity are equally matched in its extensive library of books and audio dramas. This article delves into the top writers who have contributed to these other mediums, exploring their unique contributions and distinguishing them on the basis of emotional depth, creativity, and enduring relevance.

The Best Writers of TV Books and Audio: A Detailed Analysis

Joseph Lidster - Masterful Character Emotions

Joseph Lidster is currently recognized as one of the standout writers for Doctor Who in the realm of TV books and audio. His work, while not limited to television, has garnered critical acclaim for its ability to delve into emotional character arcs. Lidster's success stems from his deep understanding of character emotions and his skill in pulling at the heartstrings of the audience.

Terrance Dicks - Foundational Contributions

Terrance Dicks is widely regarded as the gold standard among all-time Doctor Who writers. His enduring legacy is a testament to his foundational contributions, spanning decades across the program. Dicks not only began by writing pivotal TV episodes but also went on to pen numerous Target novelizations, Virgin New Adventures, and BBC Books. His work is characterized by its depth and complexity, setting a benchmark for other writers to follow.

Classic Series Writers: A Legacy of Excellence

The classic series saw several exceptional writers who left their indelible mark on the program's narrative. These include:

Robert Holmes: Known for integrating double-act characters and witty dialogue, but also criticized for leaving plot holes. Malcolm Hulke: Praised for his three-dimensional alien characters, though he passed away too early to see the rise of modern audio and book contributions. David Whitaker: The show's first story editor, who set a thought-provoking tone and wrote "The Ambassadors of Death," a critically acclaimed episode. Christopher Bidmead: Although his contributions to Season 18 brought controversy, he remains a significant figure in the history of Doctor Who. Marc Platt: Best known for his work on the television series, particularly "Ghost Light," and his influence on the Doctor Who universe. Ben Aaronovitch: Known for groundbreaking work like "Remembrance of the Daleks" and "Transit" but made a later exit from the franchise. Andrew Cartmel: While highly influential, his darker narrative style and characters did not align with Lidster's approach.

New Series TV Writers: A Modern Renaissance

The new series introduced a wave of writers who brought modern sensibilities to the classic narrative. Among them:

Russell T Davies: A pivotal figure who transformed Doctor Who into a contemporary and popular TV phenomenon. Davies' impact on television and writing is substantial, transcending the Doctor Who franchise. Paul Cornell: Creator of the character Bernice Summerfield, Cornell's work includes powerful new adventures that challenge traditional narratives. Steven Moffat: Known for his intricate plotlines and impactful television seasons, but his audio and book contributions are fewer and less well-known. Mark Gatiss: A frequent contributor to both TV and audio stories, Gatiss's work is generally solid but not noteworthy in terms of innovation or impact. Gareth Roberts: Known for capturing the magic of the Fourth Doctor and Lalla Ward's Romana in his works, though he sometimes lacks the emotional resonance of other writers.

Book Writers: A New Front in the Franchise

When it comes to books, several writers have made noteworthy contributions:

Lawrence Miles: A master of contemporary writing with a unique, boundary-pushing style, Miles is a standout for his work with Faction Paradox and other out-there ideas. Kate Orman and Lance Parkin: While highly regarded, they lack the "wow" factor of Miles and other contemporary writers. David McIntee and Christopher Bulis: Prolific contributors with memorable moments, though their work is less frequently referenced.

Other notable writers include:

Jacqueline Rayner: A strong writer who has developed compelling characters, particularly Evelyn Smythe, a companion for Big Finish. Her work with audible and books is resonant with fans. Steve Lyons: Known for his strategic storytelling and ability to connect disparate threads in his works. Simon Guerrier: His work is often praised for its emotional core and unexpected twists. James Goss: A prolific writer, similar to Christopher Bulis and David McIntee, bringing a wealth of material to the franchise.

Conclusion

Doctor Who's rich narrative ecosystem is enriched by the work of these writers, each contributing to the programme's unique and enduring appeal. From Terrance Dicks' foundational legacy to Joseph Lidster's contemporary mastery, the landscape of Doctor Who's written works is as diverse and exciting as the show itself.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the adventure, these writers' contributions provide a window into the rich, evolving universe of Doctor Who, ensuring that the show's legacy endures for generations.