Volume 18, Issue 5 October/November 2008 ConNotations FREE The Bi-Monthly Science Fiction, Fantasy & Convention Newszine of the Central Arizona Speculative Fiction Society

An Interview with Featured Inside Kage Baker Regular Features Special Features by Nadine Armstrong SF Tube Talk An Interview with Kage Baker Kage Baker is best known as the All the latest news about by Nadine Armstrong creator of the time-traveling Scienc Fiction TV shows immortals of Dr. Zeus Inc, found by Lee Whiteside The Nightmare Before Christmas in the pages of the series of DVD Contest books and stories known as the 24 Frames Company series. This year, she All the latest Movie News In Memory returns to the world of her stand- by Lee Whiteside Don LaFontaine alone fantasy novel The Anvil of Joan Winston the World. Recently, I sat down Screening Room with her to talk about the Reviews of current theatrical releases In A World Without Don LaFontaine Company, its origins and By Shane Shellenbarger characters, where it’s going, and Costume Closet to get the scoop on her new Articles Covering Topics of interest An Amercan in New Zealand book, The House of the Stag © Nadine Armstrong in the constuming field by Jeffrey Lu available from TOR now. Pro Notes CopperCon 28 Masquerade Results Nadine: What started you off writing the edies of history – maybe we only think News about Company stories? they happened but they didn’t actually genre authors and fans Plus Kage: I got the idea for The Company and happen. CASFS Business Report wrote the first book, the first draft of The MangaZone Garden of Iden back as far as 1985. It had N: It seems that from the start, you Reviews of Manga and Comics FYI occurred to me all my life that now and always envisioned the whole arc of The News and tidbits of interest to fans again, you read something in the paper – Company and you built a framework in Musical Notes which you could tell that story. “somebody just found a hitherto unknown The latest news of Filk and Filkers K: Yes, that’s correct. Club Listings, Convention List & Mozart manuscript in a closet. I thought: Generic Registration Form what if there’s a team of people going In Our Book N: Did that make it easier or more around doing this stuff? This stuff is only Reviews of New SF/F Books CHECK OUR WEB SITE AT extinct because you think it’s extinct. But difficult to write as you got to the middle books? somewhere someone has stuff tucked NonGenre By Genre http://www.casfs.org/ConNotations/ K: I had it mapped to a certain point. away and it’s a comforting idea that things Non SF/F books by SF/F Authors aren’t permanently lost. All of the trag- What I had was Mendoza meets the FOR UP TO DATE INFO AND MOVIE REVIEWS BETWEEN ISSUES ( Continued on page 7 )

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Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 1 Pick up your copy of ConNotations at the following locations In This Issue Who Is Who This Issue Managing Editor: Stephanie Bannon BOOK STORES COMIC STORES News & Reviews Assistant to the Editor: Gary Swaty Bent Cover Bookstore All About Comics SF Tube Talk 3 Graphics Editor: Craig L. Dyer Film & Video Editors 12428 N. 28th Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85029 5060 N. Central, Phoenix, AZ : Len Berger & 24 Frames 3 Craig L Dyer (602) 942-5932 (602) 277-0757 FYI 8 Promotions Directors: Len Berger, Book Den Ash Avenue Comics & Books Screening Room 10 Richard Bolinski, Craig L Dyer 15410 N. 67th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85306 810 S. Ash, Tempe, AZ (480) 858-9447 Non-Genre by Genre 11 Advertising: Catherine Book (623) 486-2529 Atomic Comics Costume Closet 12 Proof Readers: Catherine Book, Bob Book Exchange LaPierre & Gary Swaty 1120 S. Country Club, Ste. 105, Mesa, AZ Pro Notes 13 Reporters: Craig L Dyer, Jeffrey Lu 4320 N. Miller Road #F, Scottsdale, AZ 85210 (480) 649-0807 In Memory 15 Staff Writers: Pam Allen, Nadine 85251 (480)990-8380 4537 E. Cactus, Phoenix AZ 85032 MangaZone 16 Armstrong, Stephanie L Bannon, Catherine Book Gallery Book, Shane Bryner, Craig L. Dyer, M.L. (602) 923-0733 Musical Notes 17 Fringe, Michael Griffin, Bob LaPierre, 3643 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix AZ th 10215 N. 28 Dr, #A1, Phoenix, AZ 85051 In Our Book (Book Reviews) 18 Randy Lindsey, Jeffrey Lu, Christina 85018 (602)395-1066 CASFS Business Report 24 Paige, Shane Shellenbarger, Gary Swaty, (602)468-0400 3155 W. Chandler Blvd #5, Chandler AZ Tom Tuerff, Lee Whiteside, Randall 50 W. Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201 85226 (480)940-6061 Special Features Whitlock (480) 835-0757 Contributors: Kevin Williams Drawn to Comics An Interview with Kage Baker Layout & Design: Stephanie L. Bannon Book Rack 5757 W. Glendale, AZ 85301 by Nadine Armstrong 1 Keeper of the Mailing List: Craig L. Dyer 3539 W. 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Page 2 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 known about how the series will develop Hyde, and Slaughterhouse Five as well SF Tube Talk at this point. 24 Frames as adapting Charles Dickens’ final novel, TV News & Previews Also on NBC on Wednesdays is the The Mystery of Edwin Drood. Del Toro new Knight Rider, which promises more Movie News has also signed up with Universal to By Lee Whiteside of what we saw in the pilot movie last By Lee Whiteside create a big-screen version of H.P. spring with not much information out Lovecraft’s At the Mountains of Madness The fall season started off in Septem- there about what we will be seeing in Guillermo del Toro has been busy and will also produce two films for the ber and we’ve still got a few debuts upcoming episodes. Debuting on Friday lining up projects that should keep him studio, an adaptation of David Moody’s coming up in the next couple of months nights on October 17th is Crusoe, NBC’s busy for the next decade or so. In Hater and Crimson Peak, a gothic including The Legend of the Seeker in take on the classic story. In addition to addition to The Hobbit already in the syndication and several of the new works, he’s now signed to helm remakes Robinson Crusoe (Philip Winchester) ( Continued on page 6 ) network shows. We’ve also got news on and Friday (Tongayi of Frankenstein, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. the end of Stargate Atlantis as well as the Chirisa), other next chapter in the Stargate franchise and characters we will see some news from across the pond on new include Crusoe’s wife adventures for Sarah Jane and the new Susannah (Anna series Merlin. Walton), the Captain First up on NBC, we’ve got Heroes of the Spanish Guard and Chuck back on Monday nights with Santanna (Joaquim De My Own Worst Enemy joining in with Almeida), and wealthy them during October. Heroes will be family friend Jeremiah continuing its Villains arc through the Blackthorne (Sam first half of the season, with Sylar having Neill). The series will freed several other dangerous people follow the adventures from the Company’s holding facility of Crusoe and Friday along with having acquired new powers as they survive that make him even more formidable. together on the island Matt is guided by a new character, an fighting off cannibals, African Aborigine played by Ntare marauders, wild Mwine. Expect to continue to see lots of animals and dangerous jumping about in time as well as a few storms. We will also more guest cameos. Rumored is a guest get a heavy dose of appearance by Seth Green and Breckin Crusoe’s life before he Meyer as comic book fans who advise was stranded, learning one of the Heroes. Also rumored are more about how he met and revelations about how the various wooed his wife as well families are connected including some as the deepening previously unknown Petrelli relatives. mystery of his relation- NBC has liked what they’ve seen so far ship to Jeremiah in the produced episodes for Chuck that Blackthorne. The series they’ve already given it a full season looks to be a good order of 22 episodes. We’ll see Chuck period action adventure going undercover to rescue Sarah and series and is probably Casey after they are captured by a female worth checking out spy who wanted to obtain a new cipher while you can. from Casey. Bryce returns in an episode FOX has kicked off where he, Chuck and Sarah go under- their new fall season in cover but Chuck gets jealous of them and early September with blows his cover. Nicole Richie guest stars the debut of Fringe as in an episode as Heather, a former high well as the second school classmate of Sarah, enabling season of Terminator: Chuck to learn more about Sarah. The Sarah Connor Heather’s husband, Mark, is being Chronicles. For The threatened and must steal some plans for Sarah Connor a weapon at his work and Chuck joins Chronicles, following Sarah at her high school reunion as they the opening batch of work to help out Mark. Chuck, Casey and episodes already aired Sarah go undercover at a computer firm there’s not much when some secret satellite codes go specific news to report. missing and they discover that they are They did reveal at hidden within a game the company Comic Con Interna- makes. Chuck has to become an expert at tional that one of the the game to be able to win and get the regulars will not access codes before terrorists do. My survive the season. Own Worst Enemy starts up October 13 According to producer in the 10 pm ET/PT time slot and Josh Friedman in a promises lots of action and a bit of humor press interview “No, as Christian Slater portrays the two it’s pure storytelling. sides of the same man in Henry Spivey It’s painful to say and Edward Albright. To complicate good-bye to actors. It’s things, he also finds out his best friend has a dual identity. Not much else is ( Continued on page 4 ) Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 3 SF Tube Talk operating room and manipulating blood, Circus Circus, Emerson is hired to for help in the murder of their best friend ( Continued from page 3 ) and, in what may be the jump-the-shark investigate a missing girl and following a “Joe”, who when they start to investigate, episode, Melinda is checking out the trail of dead bodies leads them to a they find out that Joe was a Frescort, a painful, especially with this show. online community Virtual Life when a traveling circus and a bunch of dead friend for hire. Emerson, Ned, Chuck, Everyone’s wonderful and they’re all ghost comes out of the computer, causing clowns in a morgue. In Bad Habits, Olive and Olive all go undercover at Joe’s place lovely people, and going to an actor and havoc. She discovers that the ghost has decided to stay in the nunnery but of employment to find out who killed saying, ‘Here’s the script and this is actually has an avatar in Virtual Life and when one of the sisters dies after a fall him. There’s not much information on the what’s going to happen,’ is extremely she ends up getting into a fight with it from the bell tower, she believes it is upcoming Eli Stone episodes other than difficult, and it’s never driven, at least so online while trying to convince it to head murder and asks Emerson and Ned to they will still likely be titled after George far for us, it’s never been driven by to the light. I’m sure her online avatar help find out the truth. In Frescorts, two Michael songs and that even though Eli economics or anything extracurricular. will look really hot. There is one develop- different people come to Emerson asking It’s … writer’s room and you’re, all of a ( Continued on page 5 ) sudden you’re having this dawning ment that may change realization that you have a really good the series, though, idea for something story-wise, but it’s rumors are that going to end up costing somebody a job. someone close to And it’s not easy. These are people, and Melinda may die or most of them will, they’ll go on and get come close to dying. other work, but it’s not a fun thing to do New on CBS for the really.” Look for the show to maintain a fall is The Eleventh balance between action and personal Hour, starring Rufus stories, with John Connor growing more Sewell as scientist and more into the leader he will become Jacob Hood and while Sarah ends up less in control of Marley Shelton as what’s happening. The reveal of the true Rachel Young, nature of Catherine Weaver (Shirley Sewell’s bodyguard. Manson) at the end of the season opener Based on the UK series definitely caught people by surprise and created by Stephen puts a spin on how things might progress Gallagher (who is not in the series. involved with the US In Fringe, FOX has one of the more version), it takes a look anticipated new shows of the season and at strange scientific the debut ratings were fairly strong. goings on that Sewell Again, there’s not much specific informa- is brought in to fix or tion on upcoming episodes, but the solve at “The Eleventh producers aim to take some of what Hour”, making things they’ve learned making Alias and Lost usually having an and striking a better balance between the urgent need to be fixed show’s mythology and week to week before it is too late. storytelling. In a press interview, pro- The series is being ducer Roberto Orci revealed their produced by Jerry inspiration for the series came from the Bruckheimer and movie “Real Genius”, Twin Peaks, and looks to match up well David Cronenberg scifi movies. They with its lead-in series plan to keep the stories rooted in real CSI on Thursday science, drawing from current science nights for CBS. news and expanding cutting edge ABC has both developments into story ideas. They also Pushing Daisies have set up the show’s mythology to be (Wednesdays) and Eli simpler than other things they’d done, Stone (Tuesdays) such that it can be wrapped up on short returning for their notice if needed or drawn out for several second seasons, both years if it works out that way. The weekly series getting a stories are also not dependent on “the big relaunch following the answer” so that they can tell good stories strike shortened first week to week without having to service seasons. For Pushing an ongoing plot driving the series. They Daisies, the new plan to keep the focus on the characters season starts with and how they work and interact with each Bzzzzzz! where a young other, having set up a group dynamic that woman is killed by a should lead to stories that play off of that hive of bees and when as well as the science based storylines. Ned wakes her up, they With FOX giving the series a plum spot find out about a plot of following House on Tuesday nights, if corporate sabotage and they don’t draw a good audience and Chuck goes undercover hang onto it, they will only have them- as a salesgirl to selves to blame. investigate. Also, Olive CBS is bringing back Ghost has decided to go away Whisperer for its fourth season and the and join a nunnery in first few episodes find Melinda dealing light of her recent with a ghost who appears to be a fire- revelations about starter, a ghost who is haunting an Chuck and Ned. In Page 4 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 and Creature From the Black Lagoon. but likely will start surfacing in the next ancient alien species on their new home SF Tube Talk ( Continued from page 4 ) In the Beginning features Mitch Pileggi few months as they start to gear up for planet. Brain Storm sees Rodney return to had his aneurysm removed, things will guest starring as Sam and Dean’s grand- production on the new series. Earth to attend a presentation by an old still be a bit strange and quirky as Eli father. The episode will flash back to But there’s still half a season of Stargate scientific rival and he ends up working to continues to spread his fundamental when Mary and John Winchester started Atlantis left, and no month-long break in disable a weather control device that has message of doing good and helping their relationship and may involve some the middle for once. Stargate Atlantis gone out of control. Guest starring in the others. Look for a number of name guest time travel as well. Metamorphosis has resumes its final season on October 10th, episode as scientists are Dave Foley, Bill stars, though, including Katie Holmes as Dameon Clarke as a middle-class father moving an hour earlier on the SciFi Nye (“The Science Guy”), and real-life a lawyer, Sigourney Weaver as a who begins to turn into a fly like creature. Friday schedule with The Lost Tribe, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. therapist, the singer Seal as himself, and We’ll also meet a couple of angels, continuing on from the mid-season Debuting on SciFi the first Friday of more than likely a few other surprise Castiel and Uriel, who will be recurring cliffhanger started in First Contact. While October is Sanctuary, initially a web cameos. New on ABC will be Life on characters and are reportedly “badass the Wraith Todd holds some of the team series starring Amanda Tapping and Mars, the adaptation of the BBC series seraphim.” captive, Daniel Jackson and Rodney other Stargate related actors that has been about a present-day cop that travels back SciFi Channel has announced that the McKay have discovered a device that picked up by SciFi for a weekly series. in time to the 1970’s (or he may just be in current season of Stargate Atlantis, its could potentially wipe out The Wraith but Amanda Tapping is 157 year old Dr. a coma). The US adaptation has com- fifth, will be the last for the series. It will with additional dire consequences. Helen Magnus, who knows of the pletely changed things around from its continue to air new episodes through Sheppard works with some old allies to existence of creatures that are abnormal original pilot, setting it in New York and November and conclude in January with prevent The Wraith from destroying the offshoots of evolution that live on the recasting everyone but the lead actor its 100th episode. However, like with device (and Daniel and Rodney) and fringes of our world. Most of them are Jason O’Mara as Sam Tyler. Gene Hunt Stargate SG-1, that is not the end of the rescuing the rest of the Atlantis team held benign, but have grown increasingly is now being played by Harvey Keitel, series. SciFi has also green-lighted a captive. Next up is Inquisition, which violent as their existence is threatened. with Gretchen Mol as Annie Norris, follow-on TV movie that will wrap up the while being a clip show of sorts will also Dr. Magnus has created a sanctuary for Jonathan Murphy as Chris Skelton, and unresolved issues at the end of the series deal with some issues that fans have the benign ones, giving them protection Michael Imperioli as Ray Carling. The and will likely lead to additional TV brought up about some of the Atlantis as well as protecting our world from the new producers have also gotten permis- movies/DVD releases. SciFi is also not team’s activities in the Pegasus Galaxy. dangerous ones. Her team includes her sion from the original series creators to yet done with the Stargate franchise and The Atlantis team is invited to join a daughter Ashley (Emilie Ullerup), quirky change around the mythology so that the have also given the go-ahead to a new coalition of human worlds aligning to tech-wiz Henry, and the latest recruit to adaptation does not have to end the same weekly series, Stargate Universe, which fight against The Wraith but find that they the cause, Will Zimmerman (Robin way as the UK series ended. To be will debut in the summer of 2009 on the are being put on trial for their crimes Dunne), a brilliant psychiatrist/profiler honest, with all the behind the scenes SciFi Channel. According to executive against the Pegasus Galaxy. New Atlantis who has a knack for finding the creatures. turmoil, the tough time slot opposite The producers Brad Wright and Robert director Woolsey must use his best Despite the series debuting the first Eleventh Hour, and a lead-in that doesn’t Cooper, “In ‘Universe,’ we plan to keep diplomatic skills to defend his team weekend in October, there is very little really seem to be a good match (Grey’s those elements that have made the against their charges. In Outsiders, after information about the weekly series Anatomy), I really don’t see the US franchise a success, such as adventure relocating a group of humans to a new beyond the initial web produced episodes. version making far enough to have a and humour, while breaking new ground world, the Atlantis team must work to It will reportedly follow the production resolution, likely leaving Sam Tyler in the relationships between mostly keep the local inhabitants from turning setup the original web series used with trapped in the 1970’s forever. young and desperate explorers, thrust them over to The Wraith in order to save the majority of the sets being virtual sets. The CW has their two major genre together and far from home. Above all, their village. In The Prodigal, The Wraith HBO’s foray into the supernatural, True series back this fall with Smallville and we believe the Stargate itself remains an Michael is back and takes over Atlantis’ Blood, debuted with modest numbers in Supernatural. Smallville starts off enduring icon with infinite potential as a control room, revealing to a captive Teyla early September but HBO appears happy October with Toxic where Oliver Queen jumping off point for telling stories.” The that he has plans for her child. Col. with the numbers and they are likely to is poisoned and Clark and Chloe work series will focus on a team of explorers Sheppard and Dr. McKay work to find a grow once additional airings are factored together to save him. Instinct brings who unlock the secret of the Stargate’s way to disable The Wraith’s energy shield in. Expect to see the weekly series another DC character into play with ninth chevron and travel to the starship before Michael’s plan comes to fruition. continue to follow the general plot of the Maxima (Charlotte Sullivan), an Destiny. They discover the ship was Remnants sees Col. Sheppard captured by first novel in the Charlaine Harris intergalactic goddess who decides that launched by The Ancients at the height of an enemy he thought was dead, while series, albeit with a few changes for the Clark is the perfect mate for her and uses their civilization but never completed its Atlantis discovers the existence of an her powers to seduce him. Committed mission to visit ( Continued on page 6 ) finds Lois and Clark investigating a series stargates of couples disappearing (including Chloe previously and Jimmy) with them ending up in a seeded on Moment of Truth-type lie detector game. worlds. The In Prey, when a series of murders happen explorers soon in Metropolis, Clark and Chloe clash discover that when Clark suspects Davis Bloom/ they are not able Doomsday is involved. In Identity, Jimmy to return to Earth gets some pictures of a red and blue blur and are now and begins to suspect Clark is involved, trapped on a ship leading to Clark starting to realize the that they have need for a secret identity. Bloodline looks little control to feature a return visit from Kara over. As they (Supergirl) and subsequent episodes may explore each lead to a wedding as well as a big new location, showdown with Doomsday. Following all they also must of that, and likely airing early in the year, make sure they will be an episode written by Geoff don’t get left Johns bringing The Legion of Superhe- behind when the roes into the Smallville mythology. ship is ready to Supernatural kicks off October with move on. No Monster Movie, which is a black and cast or character white, classic horror film style episode details have yet that is reportedly an homage to Dracula been announced Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 5 SF Tube Talk ( Continued from page 5 ) some manner. The Mark of the Berserker Joining Clone Wars on Friday nights on schedule to move to the date Harry Secret Potter Quantum TV adaptation. HBO has also just brings Clyde into the forefront and Cartoon network is the new series vacated, Nov 21, while Jocelyn Jee Saturdays of Solace exercised their option to purchase the introduces his parents Carla ( , about the Saturday family of moved back a few days to Eisen Gary Beadle rights to George R. R. Martin’s A Game ) and Paul Langer ( ) world-saving adventure scientists who are November 12th from November 7th, no Harry of Thrones, and will continue to develop when Clyde’s dad appears to have been part of a network of scientists who longer having to worry about The Temptation of Sarah Jane Potter it as a TV series. On his web site, Martin possessed. protect the world from evil, including the . Smith City of Ember stressed that this is not yet a green light to is next and the title is about all that masked madman V.V. Argost. Rounding (Oct 10) - An adaptation Ben Jeanne DuPrau’s City of Ember do the series, but it is a very positive step is known about the episode. Finally, to out the evening are new episodes of of Enemy of the Bane 10: Alien Force forward. round out this series is . Joining the lineup in novel. The city has been flourishing for The Brave and Debuting in early November in syndica- with the return of Miss Wormwood mid-November will be centuries due to a never ending supply of Samantha Bond the Bold tion (check your local listings) will be ( ) who teams up with the , featuring Batman teamed up light, but its generator is failing and its Legend of the Seeker, based on the Terry Sontaran(s) to try to take Luke back from with a different superhero each week lights are starting to flicker. Two teenag- Goodkind Sword of Truth novel series. Sarah Jane. However, Sarah Jane will featuring lesser known heroes like Red ers must race against time to find out the The original plan was to name the series have an old friend to team up with as well Tornado, Booster Gold, Adam Strange, ancient secret of the city’s power and after the first book, Wizard’s First Rule, in Sir Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart Metamorpho and Kamandi. help everyone escape before the lights go (Nicholas Courtney), who is now semi- out. Stars Harry Treadaway as Doon but at ComicCon they announced the new ( Continued from page 3 ) 24 Frames Saoirse Ronan Bill name of the series. Craig Horner will retired but definitely not out of the and as Lina with Murray Martin Landau star as Richard Cypher, a woodsman who picture. romance del Toro co-wrote with Mat- as The Mayor, Mary Kay Place transforms into a magical leader and Just debuted on BBC One is the new thew Robbins, his collaborator on as Sul, as Mrs. Murdo, Merlin Toby Jones Bridget Regan will star as the mysteri- series , which will turn up in the Mimic. and as Barton Snode. Saw V ous and beautiful Kahlan. Also on board US on NBC early in 2009. The series is In the works to film next year is Evil (Oct 24) It’s October, so time for Saw Tobin Bell as regulars are Bruce Spence as Zedd, a set in the mythical Camelot, under the Dead: The Musical in 3-D based on the another movie. is Jigsaw Costas Mandylor wise and powerful older wizard who rule of the ruthless tyrant Uther play that has had a successful run in and is Hoffman in Anthony Head travels with Richard and Kahlan on their Pendragon ( ) who has Toronto. The musical was created by what should be another exciting escapade journey, Jay Laga’aia as Chase, a loyal banned magic. When a young man named Christopher Bond with choreography by into terror and horror. Colin Morgan Changeling and fearsome member of the Councilor’s Merlin ( ) with extraordi- Hinton Battle. Evil Dead creator Sam (Oct 24) Opening in limited Guard, and Craig Parker as Darken nary magical abilities arrives in the Raimi has seen the play and has given release and then going wide is a drama/ Rahl, a tyrant that Richard must stop kingdom, he quickly makes enemies the OK to turn it into a movie. thriller written by the hot new screen- J. Michael from unleashing an ancient evil. David including Uther’s son, Prince Arthur At a press conference to promote the writer in Hollywood, Bradley James Straczynski de Lautour will guest as Richard’s ( ). Merlin is taken under release of Iron Man on DVD, director . Based on a true story in the brother, Michael, and Ted Raimi will the wing of Uther’s physician, Gaius Jon Favreau revealed some of what he 1920’s about a woman who has her son Richard Wilson guest star as Sebastian, a mapmaker ( ) where he learns to wants to do with the sequel. First of all, kidnapped and when he is returned to her, skilled in the art of cartogromancy, the make use of his talents to survive and to he wants to film in IMAX and possibly in she realizes it isn’t her son and fights to making of enchanted maps. The series is unlock some of Camelot’s mystical 3-D. He also wants to use The Mandarin learn the truth, exposing corruption in the being produced by Rob Tapert and Sam secrets and discovers that his destiny and and War Machine but they are still in the Los Angeles police force. Directed by Clint Eastwood Angelina Raimi, who previously had successes Arthur’s are strongly linked. Also starring scripting stage at this point. They do plan and starring Katie McGrath Angel Jolie, John Malkovich, Jeffrey with Xena and Hercules in syndication. are as Morgana, to show some advancement in the Iron and Couldby John Hurt Donovan. Look for more details including a station as Gwen, and as the Man’s technology and move forward The Haunting of Molly Hartley list closer to the debut at voice of the Great Dragon, who is towards the formation of The Avengers as (Oct 31) Haley Bennett www.legendoftheseeker.com imprisoned in the caves below Camelot well. is teenager Molly Hartley Across the pond on the BBC, they are and becomes a mentor to Merlin. Guest Columbia Pictures is moving ahead who discovers that her parents made a Santiago Cabrera, getting ready to bring back Sarah Jane stars will include for a third Ghostbusters movie, which pact with The Devil to save her life when Michelle Ryan, Julian Rhind-Tutt Smith and company for a second series of and will reportedly feature a new team with she was younger. When The Devil comes Eve Myles adventures on Children’s BBC. These . The series is being produced the original team as mentors. to collect, Molly takes action to fight the Julian Murphy Johnny Capps will likely turn up in the US on SciFi at by and , January will see a federal trial for a terrible things happening to her and her Hex some point, but we’ve got the details for who previously produced the series . suit from FOX disputing Warner Bros. family. Splinter you now. The series will kick off with They are approaching the series and the rights to make The Watchmen, claiming (Oct 31) Another Halloween The Last Sontaran (there’s always one characters in a similar way as is done they still have the rights from an earlier horror film about a couple on the run who Smallville left behind, it appears) and will also see with Superman in , showing the agreement for the movie rights to the become trapped in a patrol station and the departure of Maria and her family early years of Arthur and Merlin and how graphic novel. Warner Bros. asked for a must fight to survive against a parasite from the series. The Sontaran Com- their relationship and destinies develop. dismissal of the suit, but the judge denied that has a hankering for human flesh. Repo! The Genetic Opera mander Kaagh has embarked on a plan to The BBC is hoping for it to do well in their motion and set a trial date for early (Nov 7) Anthony Stewart Head crash all of the world’s satellites onto their Saturday night family slot where January. stars as Repo Doctor Who Robin Hood nuclear power installations and Sarah and and have been Man/Nathan Wallace in a new rock company must stop him. In Day of the successes. Upcoming Movie Previews for October musical/horror film. In the not too distant Clowns, we’ll run into creepy clowns The big animated news is the debut of and November future an epidemic of organ failures leads Star Wars Clone Wars who are abducting children and we’ll also on Cartoon Things have softened a bit for the rest to a massive organ harvest. Those who meet Sarah Jane’s new teen neighbour, Network starting Friday, October 3rd, of the year with several movies now have bought new ones must keep up their Rani Chandra (Anjli Mohindra) and her kicking off with a one hour episode. As having moved to next year. Paramount payments to be subject to having them parents Gita (Mina Anwar), and Haresh with the theatrical movie, the series will was the first to do so with moving the repossessed by the Repo Man. Also Alexa Vega (Ace Bhatti), who is also the new Head follow Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan release of Star Trek from December to starring are as Shilo Wallace, Sarah Brightman Teacher at their school. Rani wants to be Kenobi, Yoda and Ahsoka Tano in their May and now Warner Bros. has opted to Nathan’s daughter, as Paul Sorvino a reporter and idolizes Sarah Jane and struggle against the Dark Side during the push back the release of Harry Potter opera singer Blind Mag, as Paris Sarah quickly takes her under her wing. Clone Wars. The series opens with and the Half Blood Prince to next GeneCo’s president Rotti with Hilton Boll Moseley In case you were wondering, there is Ambush, with Yoda on a secret mission to summer, citing the success of The Dark as Amber Rotti and Nivek Ogre apparently no connection to the young forge a treaty with the king of Toydaria Knight (which has earned over $500 and as his sons. The film is Rani and The Rani that The Doctor has when his ship is ambushed by Count million domestically and over $450 based on a play written and composed by Darren Smith Terrance Zdunich previously encountered (although it has Dooku and his assassin Asajj Ventress. million internationally) at the box office and definitely sparked some rumours). In The second half of the debut, Rising and wanting to make sure they have a big and will have a very limited release Secrets of the Stars. Russ Abbott guest Malevolence, sees Anakin and Ashsoka earner next summer instead of having two before being released on DVD early in stars as psychic Martin Trueman and may race to save Jedi Master Plo Koon and his big earners in the same year. Two other 2009. deal with people getting taken over in clone troopers from a deadly weapon. movies (Bolt and Twilight) adjusted their ( Continued on page 7 ) Page 6 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 Wayne 24 Frames ( Continued from page 6 ) The Punisher. Also starring are what happened. It kind of became a they do have to do something about the Knight as Microchip, Doug Hutchinson buddy adventure and it also carried the Company. Quantum of Solace (Oct 14) Daniel as Looney Bin Jim, Dash Mihok as politics forward and it sort of takes you Craig is back as James Bond in the latest Detective Martin Soap, and Colin into the future. I realized I needed a piece N: The book for me, as a reader, was sort entry in the Bond filmography. It follows Salmon as Agent Paul Budiansky. there before I went on to The Life of the of a breathing space. on directly from Casino Royale with World to Come. K: You have a contract with the reader Bond still smarting from the betrayal of Kage Baker ( Continued from page 1 ) and certainly and the reader says Vesper Lynd. As he works to find out Then in The Life of the World to Come “goddammit, can we see some nice things three guys one after another and the third who blackmailed her, he journeys to which starts off with Mendoza’s diary happen to these characters.” In a way, it’s time is the charm but a lot of bad stuff Austria, Italy and South America meeting where she’s nuts, she’s been there way a fool’s idyll and can’t go but at least they happens that then has to be got over the feisty Camille (Olga Kurylenko), too long, and she’s not at all stable. We get a little time like the shopping expedi- before they can get to their happy ending. who leads Bond to Dominic Greene introduced Alec and that brings it up to tion. Initially, it was just going to be a trilogy, (Mathieu Amalric), a ruthless business- the end. Then the Children of The and then when I sat down to write about man who is working to take control of Company came out which fills in a little N: I loved that. it in practical terms I realized “well, this one of the world’s most important natural bit more back story. I said we could take K: I’m glad you did, it was a lot of fun to isn’t going to work.” There’s just too resources. Bond must keep moving to a collection where all the stories have a write but also I thought “you’ve got these much story, but also the other characters keep ahead of the CIA, terrorists and common theme, which is children which people who have never been exposed to stepped up and took on lives of their own. even M (Judi Dench)! were brought into the Company. It 20th century capitalism, any of them. Originally, it would have been initially Bolt (Nov 21) Disney’s holiday offering occurred to me at that point, I could use Alec, from the future, is from a point just Garden of Iden, Mendoza in Holly- is about a dog who plays a superdog this as a way to show who the bad guys where most stuff is unavailable, the wood, The Life of the World to Come, and named Bolt (John Travolta) on TV who are behind the scenes that are pulling the others, they’ve never seen anything on then a final book that would resolve gets loose in the real world and thinks strings. The character of Labienus who the level of the commodities that we have everything. But Joseph took on life as a he’s still the dog he plays in front of the has popped up here and there and I access to. Then the ending of The character beyond what I had expected. He cameras. He embarks in a cross-country always knew was a bad guy, finding Machine’s Child, where you finally get was just kind of a placeholder that was an journey accompanied by an abandoned people’s difficulties funny. Then it was the significance of the ichthyosaur, which older operative who gives her advice. I house cat named Mittens (Susie Essman) just the last two books, The Machine’s has been appearing, first as a skeletal wrote Sky Coyote as a novella, not and a TV-obsessed hamster named Rhino Child, because I realized emotionally I’ve head, then as a skeleton, then the dead connected with the main narrative. My (Mark Walton). Also providing a voice got readers who have been watching one washes up on the beach, and finally, agent turned it into my editor after I sold is Miley Cyrus as Penny. these people struggling towards some boom. The ending of that was originally Iden and he said “this won’t work as it is, Twilight (Nov 21) Stephenie Meyer’s kind of a happy ending and Mendoza has going to be in The Life of the World to it’s too short and I want to see more of popular teen vampire novel comes to the been through Hell. The lovers get to go Come. But I realized these people have a this and this and this…” It occurred to big screen. It’s about a Phoenix girl, Bella run around and be together and get to lot further to go before they get to this me, it starts in South America, which is Swan, who doesn’t fit in with the high have some time where major tragedy isn’t point. Initially, Alec was just going to go where the last book picks up, so I sort of school crowd but when she moves to happening, but at the same time the story back, get Mendoza, rescue her, and then molded it in as “how does Mendoza get Fork, Washington to live with her father, is ticking forward relentlessly because from New World 1 and end up in Califor- her life is changed when she meets the ( Continued on page 8 ) nia?” Because I knew at some point she mysterious Edward Cullen. Edward is has to go into Alta California to work witty, beautiful, charming, and a vampire! there. I thought, “Ok, there’s the transi- Yes, a high school vampire romance that tion!” It also occurred to me that this is a turns dangerous when Edward’s mortal good place to start developing from vampire enemies turn up. Kristen Joseph’s point of view the politics of The Stewart stars as Bella Swan, Robert Company which he knows a lot more Pattinson as Edward Cullen, and Billy about. Joseph has been around long Burke as Bella’s dad, Charlie Swan. enough to sense that things are starting to Fanboys (Nov 26) The long delayed get difficult and problems are going to movie about four Star Wars fans who start brewing. He’s always suspected journey to Skywalker Ranch to get a things weren’t exactly what they were advance peek at Star Wars Episode I: The told they were, but he’s beginning to see Phantom Menace finally has an official how the pieces could fall into place. Also, release date. It stars Sam Huntington, Chris Marquette, Dan Fogler, Jay Lewis just walked into the story, a cameo, and became a character in his own right. Baruchel, and Kristen Bell. The main reason for the adventure is that one of the So then Mendoza in Hollywood fell into four fans is dying of cancer and wants to place and that was its necessary part of see the movie before he dies. At one the story and all of that was known from point, the cancer plot was excised but the beginning. It occurred to me, there’s a after a campaign by Star Wars fans to scene in Mendoza in Hollywood where keep it, it was put back in. After screen- they time travel into the future, which ings at Star Wars Celebration Europe and they’re not supposed to be able to do! San Diego Comic-Con, the movie is What’s going on? Again, the world finally ready to be released (but was still they’re all told exists is beginning to pushed back from September to Novem- break down a bit and they can see ber). Reports are that Kristen Bell steals through the cracks. Lewis sees her there the movie. and, I’m thinking, “what effect would this Punisher: War Zone (Dec 2) Just in time have on him and what effect would it for the holidays, Frank Castle, aka The have on Joseph?” So, Graveyard Game Punisher, is back, although he’s now was kind of a buddy kick in terms of played by Ray Stevenson. In this sequel, you’ve got these two guys, and they have Castle wreaks punishment on mob boss this relationship to Mendoza and neither Billy Russoti (Dominic West), leaving one of them is she particularly going to him disfigured. Russoti takes on a new interact with but they both need to know moniker, Jigsaw, and seeks vengeance on Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 7 Kage Baker ( Continued from page 7 ) indulging in villainy, if you have them stop at a roadhouse and have a cocktail? taking certain of the immortals prisoner, If you’re going to make a fantasy world, take her off somewhere. He was trying to obviously they’ve got to have some way make it a believable fantasy world, don’t FYI reconstitute her there on the beach and to subdue them. It occurs to them to leave just stick elves and unicorns in, make a the ichthyosaur hits and I realized that’s CASFS Book Discussion them susceptible to theobromine, because new world. Lord Ermenwyr is a fun not quite going to work as the end point. if they made a tranquilizer there’s all character to write about, he was the Mr. So, the story expanded a little there. The Bent Cover Books kinds of things we can design out of that, Toad of the book, in that he’s the charac- Sons of Heaven was the last one that there 12428 N. 28th Drive, Phoenix but it won’t kill them but will allow us to ter that rises up and sort of dominates. It were actually a lot of ways that could 3rd Tuesdays, 7pm, in the Coffee Bar sedate them. So the Company leaves that was fun to also get in some good female have gone. I rewrote that about five times Sponsored by Central Arizona in, even though they feel it’s immoral. characters. Let’s have a good female because I thought - should I focus on her Speculative Fiction Society (CASFS) character who isn’t some girl running home life, should I focus instead on the email questions to [email protected] N: Will there be any more Company around with a sword because she’s politics, how exactly do I coordinate all stories? misunderstood. Let’s have some older of the stuff that’s going to happen at the We are a small, friendly group of K: I’m writing a book right now, it is a people instead of everybody being a end? Originally I had a lot more bringing book about the Victorian version of the bloody adolescent. Let’s have a middle- science fiction/fantasy literature up the boys, but I realized it slows down Company, which is the Gentleman’s aged hero who isn’t as fast as he used to fans who like to get together to talk the plot and we need to get where we’re Speculative Society and how Edward Bell be, who mostly gets excited about fried going to go. I needed to show what about our favorite books. We Fairfax got his origins and was recruited eel and avoids killing people because he’s happens to us. I wrote a lot of the parts welcome potential new friends. and stuff. too good at it, and a believable society. It separately, on different disks, so then I October 21 - Here There Be Dragons was a lot of fun to do, and getting the was going to recombine them and fit by James A Owen. N: I’m excited that you’re returning to whole thing of racial conflict. them together like a jigsaw puzzle – what Fascinating premise, it received a fine the world of The Anvil of the World. It goes here, what’s going to make the most review from the Dragon Page folks. was an interesting little story about a N: I don’t like epic series where over 500 coherent picture? That one I have to say November 18 - Galactic Patrol by EE group of people in the day to day busi- years the society hasn’t advanced at all. was the hardest to write because you have “Doc” Smith ness of life in this interesting world. Did K: I was into history before I was into to figure “this is the last bit! You’re not First-published of the Lensman series, you structure it that way because there anything else. I’ve taught living history going to get any more books out of this.” which practically invented the larger- wasn’t anything like that? and you become aware of the patterns That was serially the most difficult book. than-life space opera. that societies fall into, these are the stages December 16 - Roll Your Own they go through, nobody has a perfectly N: Of all the historical characters you Think of a book you’ve read and enjoyed balanced feudal society where everything could choose from, why William in the past year or so that we haven’t is great for years and years. You’re going Randolph Hearst? discussed yet. Share your thoughts with to get floods, famine, you’re going to get K: I live right down the road from Mr. the rest of the group. This will provide riots and rebellions. This may be a benign Hearst’s place. Locals don’t remember some possibilities for next year’s book and good king and everyone loves him, him as a bad guy at all. He was a good list. but two generations down is a son of a man to work for, he took good care of his bitch who’s crazy. In real life, there never employees, he was kind, he was thought- BOOK DISCUSSION GROUPS was a golden age where everything was ful, he was kind to animals. I tend to see great and everyone was loyal and loved Hearst as a good guy, and always have. I Fantasy/Sci-Fi Discussion Group their king. It just didn’t happen. Study won’t go into the whole yellow journal- 4th Wed, 7pm English history, the Wars of the Roses. If ism thing and what careers he may or Borders, Glendale you try to build a world static like that, may not have wrecked. you may as well have a snow globe, it’s Path of the Craft Discussion group not alive, it can’t be interesting, the N: It seems to fit. I want all of this art, I discusses Neopagan theories inspired by people can’t be real, and the book is just want all this treasure, I want all of this both fiction and non-fiction books not going to work. protected. K: I’d been working on it since child- about magic, nature, mythology, and K: The story was that he was obsessed hood, it’s altered a good deal over the spirituality N: In House of the Stag, there’s a sense of with immortality and long life. To my years in a way anything would. Anvil was longest-running pagan book group in development. knowledge, Hearst wasn’t, but he was actually not part of the whole story, while Phoenix. -Nov 22, 6pm K: They live in a different time and very enthusiastic about the future and felt The House of the Stag is. It’s about this Borders, Phoenix Camelback place, it’s the journey. One of the things that humanity was only going upward. guy, who has problems, and runs into I’m doing with the story, each chapter That played into the idea that he was trouble early in life and then has to deal Manga Bookclub starts with “here’s how stories were told good Company candidate material. That, with it and basically fight his way up 1st Tuesdays, 7pm at this point.” You’ve got cave paintings, plus his collecting, which is a Company hand over hand, and stay alive. Borders, Chandler then you’ve got some written accounts, thing to do. N: In a way, it seems like something that’s accounts, not stories, because most Manga Bookclub of the cuneiform tablets are shipping lists. N: Why is chocolate the one thing that along the lines of the Native Americans Oct 18, 7pm When people develop their own writing affects them? when they first ran into the Spaniards. Nov 15 , 7pm and accounting, it was for purposes of K: If you know anything about chemistry K: It’s based on real conflicts that people Barnes & Noble, Goodyear trade. All it is a dry account of “this slave you realize chocolate has a lot of interest- have. People invade other people’s was moved to this location.” And then the ing stuff in it. At the time, people were countries and do their best to destroy Graphic Novel Book Club masks, when people began to do the just beginning to discover that “hey, you them all the time. Some of that may have 2nd Sunday, 8:30pm whole drama thing, then the letters, the know, if you break up with your date and come from the fact my dad was a Native Four Peaks Brewery, Tempe written novels, and then it finishes up eat a lot of chocolate, there’s a reason…” American and anytime we’d watch a with an actual published book. I was I thought, it’s good and more powerful cowboys versus Indians movie growing AUTHOR SIGNINGS trying to show this is how the story than we always thought and what if that up gave us the sense of “well, that’s your progresses, his journey from the stone is the thing that when they’re being side of the story, how come Tonto’s not Poisoned Pen Bookstore age, to the modern age. designed, the masters unintentionally the hero?” What do you mean you Jonathan Carroll Oct 16, 7pm built in this sensitivity to the obromos it conquered the west, no one lived here but Terry Brooks, Oct 19, 1pm [for an expanded version of this interview st would be funny, because it makes you? What do you mean it was wild open Alan Dean Foster, Nov 1 , 5:30pm check our website at http:// chocolate the ultimate control substance. virgin country? Other people were here! www.casfs.org/ConNotations/Index- In the future, it is illegal and immoral Anvil was very much more, what if Frodo CN.html ] anyway. Also, if you get the Company and Samwise are on the road and they ( Continued on page 9 ) Page 8 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 DRAWN TO COMICS CHALLENGER SPACE CENTER, ( Continued from page 8 ) open. FYI Heroclix. Tuesdays 4pm-7pm. Fridays, Materials Science Workshops PEORIA Diana Gabaldon & Dana Stabenow, 8pm-11pm. Saturdays, 3pm-6pm These workshops provide fun hands-on Stargazing. Starlab Planetarium. Check Nov 19, 7pm Star Wars Miniatures. Sundays, 1pm – experiences to help participants under- website for dates and times Tom Kirkbride Nov 20, 7pm 4pm stand how materials scientists manipulate The Space Place is a 2-hour interactive David Morrell, Dec 3rd 7pm Sit-and-Sketch with local artists. 3rd the properties of various materials to program for little ones with big imagina- Saturday, 6pm-8pm create the products that we use in our tions! Designed for children ages 3 Changing Hands Bookstore Doorbuster Sale, up to 75% off, Nov 28, everyday life. through 6, the program features age- Terry Brooks Oct 19th, 7pm see website for details Check website for dates and topics appropriate activities designed to teach New exhibit: My Digital World preschoolers about our planet and solar SPECIAL BOOK RELEASES GAME DEPOT HeroClix & MechWarrior - Wednesdays, ( Continued on page 10 ) This listing is to introduce you to smaller 530pm publishing houses that offer exclusive or UFS - Thursdays 6pm- limited edition books that you wouldn’t 9pm be able to find at your local chain Magic, The Gathering bookstore. - Thursdays, 6pm-9pm

Borderlands Press IMPERIAL OUT- “Pirate Radio” by Rex Miller and John POST GAMES Maclay Federation Com- “Dark Ride” anthology of new young mander - 2nd Satur- writers days, noon RPG - 1st & 3rd Cemetary Dance Publications Sundays “Afterlife” by Douglas Clegg, ltd signed Boardgames & Demo “Halloween and Other Seasons” by Al Nite - Thursdays, 6pm Sarrantonio “Brimstone Turnpike” anthology edited SAMURAI COMICS by Kealan Patrick Burke, ltd signed (check website for “Old Flames” by Jack Ketchum, ltd correct store location) signed Heroclix Tournament, Fridays, 6pm Conland Press Mechwarrior Tourney, “Writing Sarek” by Peter Beagle. Wednesdays, 6pm Autographed Yugioh Tournament, “Two Hearts” by Peter Beagle, collector’s Sundays, noon illustrated hardcover Anime Club, Sundays, “The Last Unicorn” audiobook on CD or noon MP3 Pokemon, Sundays, 2pm Subterranean Press “Last Call” by Tim Powers SPAZDOG COMICS “Those Who Went Remain There Still” Comic Book Creators by Cherie Priest Club, Mondays, “The Chronicles of Master Li and 6:30pm Number Ten Ox” by Barry Hughart Heroclix Tourna- “Your Hate Mail Will Be Graded” by ments, Fridays, 7pm John Scalzi Pokemon League, Saturdays, 3pm “Summer Morning, Summer Night” by MechWarrior, Satur- Ray Bradbury days, 6pm “Woods and Waters Wild” by Charles 24 Hour Comics Day, deLint 24-hour create-your- “Muse of Fire” by Dan Simmons own-comic book, Oct “The Empress of Mars” by Kage Baker 18, noon – Oct 19, noon Wyrm Publishing 2nd Year Anniversary “Shriek: An Afterword” by Jeff Sale, Nov 11 VanderMeer SCIENCE EVENTS GAMING EVENTS ASU BOOKMANS, CENTRAL Weekly Colloquium st rd Dungeons & Dragons Night. 1 & 3 lectures, Wednesdays, Mondays, 5pm 1240pm thru Oct, then Street Fighter II Video Game Challenge, at 140pm thru Nov 19th Aug 16, 3pm Harry Potter Magic Show with Jolly ARIZONA SCIENCE Roger, Aug 30, 3pm CENTER The new Dorrance Planetarium is now Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 9 BOOKMANS, GRANT RD, TUCSON Switch” and responding with “Yes FYI ( Continued from page 9 ) “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” Screening Room Master” so he decides to create LIFE and rd system. Call for reservations. 3 and “The Nightmare Before Christmas”, Igor win the annual Evil Science Fair. Mondays, 930am-11:30am free screenings, Oct 29, 6pm Star Wars: The Clone Wars As it turns out Dr. Glickenstein’s ASU Meteorite Exhibit entry into the Evil Science Fair didn’t Columbia Shuttle Memorial Display BORDERS AVONDALE Igor turn out too well this year. Let’s just say Iridium Satellite Model Metaphysical Wednesdays Discussion Starring: John Cusack, John Cleese, the good Dr. ended up in pieces. This Lowell Observatory Display Wednesdays, 7pm Steve Buscemi, Jay Leno created an opening for his Igor who Journey Thru the Space Program Director: Anthony Leondis proceeds cautiously to create LIFE. He BORDERS GLENDALE Runtime: 87 minutes succeeds and Eva (voiced by Molly MOON SOCIETY MEETING Metaphysical Mondays Discussion Rated: PG Shannon) is born. Eva is quite a charac- 3 PM at Bookman’s, Northwest Corner of Mondays, 7pm Release Date: September 19th, 2008 ter and her rendition of the Annie song Southern and Country Club. The meeting Reviewed by: Len Berger “Tomorrow” is an example of that will be in the rear of the store. For more LOFT THEATRE, TUCSON (ConNotations Film Editor) character. info contact Craig Porterat Free tickets at Bookmans, Speedway & The film is rated PG and I would [email protected] Grant locations, Tucson Igor is an animated comedy about recommend it for older children. The “The Big Lebowski” Oct 10, 10pm Igor (voiced by John Cusack) who is a story is a bit complex for younger PIMA AIR & SPACE MUSEUM, see website for complete listing hunchback lab assistant for one of many children (pre age 8 or so) who may also TUCSON evil scientists in the land of Malaria. It’s be frightened by some of the scary scenes New Volunteer Orientation, Oct 11, Tucson Festival of Books, March 13-15, time for the annual Evil Science Fair including some violence. 930am 2009 at University of Arizona in Tucson where the winning invention is used to Igor is rated “B-”. Volunteer Presentation Series: Cruise Here are the expected SF/F authors who blackmail the rest of the world into missiles during the Cold War, Oct 18, will attend: paying a huge ransom or else the evil Star Wars: “The Clone Wars” 10am Emma Bull invention will be unleashed. Malaria has Voices by: Matt Lanter, Ashley Titan Missile Museum Tours. Reserva- Charles deLint no other source of income and is in Eckstein, James Arnold Taylor tions only Diana Gabaldon darkness due to the constant cloud layers Director: Dave Filoni The only publicly accessible Titan II Father Andrew Greeley above the land. This is their only method Running Time: 98 minutes missile site in the nation. Tour the Dennis McKiernan of survival. Rated: PG underground missile site. See the 3-ton Yvonne Navarro King Malbert (voiced by Jay Leno) Produced by Lucasfilm and Lucasfilm blast doors, 8’ thick silo walls and an Weston Ochse organizes the Evil Science Fair and this Animation actual Titan II missile in the launch duct. Jennifer Roberson year hopes beyond all hope that Dr. Distributed by: Warner Brothers Visit the launch control center, experience James Sallis Schadenfreude (voiced by Eddie Izzard) Pictures a simulated launch, and more. Evening Will Shetterly will not win again for he has won 17 Release Date: August 15th, 2008 tours to beat the heat: Oct 11, 5pm-8pm Janni Lee Simner times in a row. The King’s fear is that the S.M. Stirling Dr’s power base will grow as he becomes Well this was a highly anticipated SETI Institute’s Weekly Robert Vardeman more popular to the people. animated event. It dives right in without Science Radio Program John Vornholt Every evil scientist has an Igor (hey any background and the energy is kept at Mondays, avail as podcast the highest levels throughout. I’m not http://radio.seti.org Check the web sites for confirmation, fond of the angular style of animation but http://podcast.seti.org location and more information.

OTHER GENRE-RELATED EVENTS Game Depot, 480-966-4727 http://www.azchallenger.org AdventureCon, Oct 25-26, University http://www.barnesandnoble.com of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale http://www.bookmans.com Comic artists, dealers, costuming and http://www.borders.com celebrities including Danielle Harris, http://www.browncoats.lagemann.org David Prowse, Kevin Sorbo, Neil Kaplan, http://www.cemeterydance.com James O’Barr, Arthur Suydam, http://www.drawntocomics.com MarkTexeira http://www.imperialoutpost.com www.adventurecon.com http://www.library.pima.gov http://www.novaspace.com/Spacefest/ ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER http://www.pimaair.org The Chronicles of Narnia, The Exhibi- http://www.poisonedpen.com tion, Opens Jun 7 http://www.samuraicomics.com http://www.seti.org BOOKMANS, PHOENIX http://www.spazdogcomics.com/ Arizona Browncoats Shindig. 1st http://www.subterraneanpress.com/ Saturday, 7pm http://www.titanmissilemuseum.org/ “I’ve got a hunch on my back – what are Scimitar-Talon is a group of people http://www.wildsidepress.com/ they going to call me? Kevin?) but the that is just my personal preference. The wanting to enjoy recreating portions of http://wyrmpublishing.com/catalog/ Igor who works for Dr. Glickenstein story was weak and very bland, more the middle ages prior to 1600 AD. http://www.wildsidepress.com/ (voiced by John Cleese) is different. This dumbed down than I would have ex- Classes on Medieval Arts and Sciences.. Igor has actually invented a couple of pected. The voices were well-done and I 1st Saturdays, 130pm-230pm assistants. One is known as Brain couldn’t find fault with the way the Across Plus Anime Club. Sundays, 7pm (voiced by Sean Hayes) whose brain is in characters interacted. Bellydance lessons with Morgiana. a fishbowl and he is not really that smart. Overall this was the reverse of Sundays except the 1st Sun, 1pm Brain spells his own name Brian with a “Revenge of the Sith” i.e. the story was Madame M, author of Creepy Little backwards “n”. The other invention is bad and the dialogue was good instead of Stories and Eerie Little Stories, and a past Scamper (voiced by Steve Buscemi) a the reverse as in the movie. If you must GoH at local convention, Oct 18, 1pm road kill bunny who is quite cynical but see it, wait for the DVD. Monster Workshop: costuming, monster gets the job done when needed. Our Igor Two stars out of five - Bob LaPierre drawing, Haikus (for kids), Oct 25, 1pm is not satisfied taking orders to “Pull the Page 10 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 An American in New Zealand CopperCon 28 Masquerade Best In Show Non Genre By Genre Melissa Kaylor as “Autumn, The Colors Part One- “A Sighting of a Quick Review of Change” Jules Verne – Travel Fiction Penguin in Dunedin” and Non Fiction The CopperCon 28 Masquerade on by Jeffrey Lu Prizes were donated by Southwest August 30, 2008 enjoyed a high degree of Costumers Guild, AniZona and Mike & participation, with 27 persons on stage as I have chosen just a few works “Nature’s Wonders: Wildlife Cruise & Theresa Contos. 18 costumed presentations. The show which I found readable and of Penguins” was my first choice in opened with an “awww” with our young Dunedin, New Zealand. I’ve seen Special thanks to our stellar crew. interest to the modern reader. fen presentations and closed with a bang, penguins in zoos and wonder if there was Technical problems which might have Fiction with a decidedly grown-up display-only a difference with them in the nesting area. been show-killing disasters under other presentation of Mark Greenawalt’s body The Adventures of a Special Also, I was curious about a ride in an circumstances were solved before I even art modeled by Renee and Kevin as a Correspondent -- Trans Siberian Argo for the cruise. An Argo is a vehicle knew they existed. Unfortunately, my green Orion dancer and her Romulan rail across Asia used in a kid’s show, “Banana Splits.” I paper records don’t include the name of companion. Halftime was ably enter- wondered if it was safe? the gentleman who lent his laptop The Survivors of The tained by our visiting belly dancers, Luckily, I had the shotgun seat. Not so computer to solve our sound crisis. Like a Chancellor -- Harrowing tale of sometimes known as Suatura (a gypsy luckily, I held on for dear life. digital Lone Ranger, he rode off into the word meaning “legend”). survival at sea from Charleston to An Argo is like a half-shell mini-tank. sunset after saving the day. the Amazon mouth. The sounds of an Argo is deafening. With All are winners because the audience was Non Fiction this in mind, my ride was going from 0 to The Crew delighted, but these awards were pre- 60 mph on a well-worn trail including Master of Ceremonies – Jack Mangan Celebrated Travels and sented: hills, cliffs, and other hazards. Sound Director – Gary Swaty Travellers -- recounting of the Our first stop was a fur seal colony. Photographer/Videographer – Michael Young Fen Division travels of famous travelers starting There were two bull seals and a few pups Contos Julie Padegimas as “Kelly Sparrow” for Hanno of Carthage and Herodotus in a trench near the sea. The driver/tour Judges’ Liason – Margaret Grady How Not to Use a Sword and proceeding forward in time to guide told us not to get too close. He Judges – Nyki Robertson, Shane Bryner, F’licia Langholz as “Queen of Hearts”for th mentioned some tourist was too curious Greg Weisman, David Hedgecock the 19 century. He covers Best Transformation and was literally crushed by one of the Backstage Manager – Sharan Hoyle Exploration and Colonial Empires Arcana Yanez as “Zombie with Head bull seals. Den Mothers – Jean Palmer, Marian Wound” for Best Living Dead Girl in America and around the world The second and final stop was to see Brock-Anderson and also delves into cartography. the yellow-eyed penguin nesting area. Stage Crew – Melissa Tribble, James Judges’ Special Mentions These book and others by Verne The viewing area was in a long wooden Tomassoni, Tiffany Jeffords, David John Autore as “Santa’s Little Helper” for building with windows. The tour guide Jeppesen can be read on line at Most Eye-Burning pointed at a hill and told everyone that Dancers – Raveena, Kate, Sabrina, http://www.online-literature.com/ Jessica Demer, Jason Estes and Ryan hill was the yellow-eyed penguin’s home. Sophia, Clara, Harper Ann, Lady Brianna Billingham as “Hare Hare Yuka” for Best verne/ I saw nothing but grass and sand. Dancers’ DJ – Dilo Choreography -- Gary Swaty I borrowed a friend’s field glasses. I Randall Whitlock - CopperCon 28 Paula Lary as “Desert Queen” for Best still could not see any penguins. I was Masquerade Director Costume on a Budget disappointed. Dixie Austin, Madison West, Gabby The driver/tour guide said that they Kaster, Lauren Null and Danielle Schultz have to make traps for the penguin’s as “Death Note Crack” for Most (Anime) greatest threat- the household cat. In-Jokes Actually, he told the crowd that the real Rachel Pierce, Jake Banister and Theron problem are feral cats. These cats would Pierce as “The Mule”for Best Punchline love to destroy this colony of flightless and (from the two “Death Note” presenta- birds. The driver/tour guide then started tions) for Cutest Couple to walk back to the Argo. But on the last minute, a little bird came from the shore. It was walking up Special Award the hill. from AniZona for I looked again and saw this wild tux- Best Anime made critter. I smiled as this bird climbed. Costume I began to love these penguins. Bianca Williams Little did I know that I’ll be also (AKA Owl Depot) climbing, next time. A hill where Peter as “Kallen Jackson filmed Lord of The Rings Kozuki” Rohan’s capital Edoras still holds a lost “ring,” Hint: It’s precious to him and who Best in the Novice ever finds it can rack up cash in eBay. Division More on that later. William Hearter as Next in An American in New Zealand “Shrubbery, the Part Two- “First Blunder: Lord of the Dwarf Ent” Rings Around The Hills” Best in the Experienced Division Theresa Contos as “Lt. Gay Ellis” (Purple-Haired Moon Lady from UFO)

Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 11 The best fabrics for this purpose will not 4. Connect the ends of the two shoulder The Hood have a direction of nappe, unless you lines drawn in Step 3 with a straight line 10. Prepare a hood. This can be a rect- don’t mind having the front of the cape that runs diagonally across the material. angle whose length is equal to twice U, run downhill while the back runs uphill. The fabric now bears the z-shaped Mark plus 25 percent and whose width is equal It’s okay for the fabric to have a right and of Zorro. This zigzag line defines the to S. Fold the rectangle over right sides a wrong side, but it should not be too shoulders and sides of the cape. together, halving its length. Sew along stretchy. one side, beginning the seam at the fold 5. Cut a piece of string of length L. Use and ending it at the unfinished end. This Layout and Cutting the string as a compass to scribe an arc unfinished end is the base of the hood. 1. Fold your fabric over right sides from the outward end of L to the diagonal Gather the base of the hood to the cape’s together with the cut edges together. Lay line scribed in Step 4. the fabric out flat. This is a lot of material, Written back in 1999, This article became so you will need a big cutting table or a 6. Cut through both layers of fabric along the basis for my”Randwulf’s Collection of wide floor. the arcs from Step 4, the diagonal line Capes” pattern package. from Step 5, and the shoulder lines from Step 3. You now have the four body Cape Cutting: The Mark of panels of the cape. Zorro by Randall Whitlock Assembly 7. Choose two of the panels in which the I’ve worked out a method of cutting a fabric nappe runs the same direction. I four-panel cape that will get you the prefer the nappe to run uphill for backs fullest cape for a given piece of fabric. By and downhill for fronts. Pin these two “fullest” I mean the greatest portion of a panels right sides together along the full circle possible. straight selvage edge and sew. This straight seam is the middle of the cape’s Measurements back. Unpin and open up the panel. Start out by measuring the distance down your back from the nape of your neck to 2. Measure out the distance L from the cut neck opening in pleats. This will made a the level at where you want the cape hem edge of the fabric along one side (this is a shoulder-wide hood much like those of to ride. Neck to ankles works well for a selvage edge). Mark this point with chalk. Jedi robes. practical field cape, though you may want Measure and mark another L distance a half-cloak down to your hips for an along the opposite side of the fabric from Finishing Up Elizabethan gentleman or a floor-dragger the fold line. for a medieval lady at court. I’ll call this 11. Finish the edges of the cape by folding over and sewing, or by concealing the number “L” for length. 3. From the end of the “L” line nearer the edges within a trim. I prefer to run an middle of the material, scribe a line of overlock serge around the edge first. Measure the width of your shoulders from length S at right angles to the fabric edge, Works fine if you have the machinery. the tip of the left shoulder blade to the tip in toward the middle of the fabric. From 12. Attach a clasp or closure to the front of the right shoulder blade. Divide this the inside end of this line, draw a line number in half, add an inch for fudge and call it “S” for shoulders. On me this comes out to 18/2 + 1 = 10 inches. 8. Pin the remaining two panels to the Measure the distance your shoulder drops back panel (right sides together) along the from the nape of your neck and call this, shoulders and the sides. Sew together panels, just below the neck opening. “D” for drop. On me this is two inches. along these seams. The basic shape of the There are many ways to do this. One of Squarer shoulders have smaller numbers, cape is now defined. my favorites is to sew a loop of cord to more sloping shoulders have higher one side and a button to the other. I values for D. 9. Cut a neck opening. This works well as usually attach a button to the loop side as a circle of circumference H (diameter H/ well for symmetry. You will also want to know roughly the Pi), which partially overlaps the shoulder circumference of your head and the seam, with most of the circle cut from the Your cape is finished! distance from the bony V of your throat at two front panels. the joining of the clavicles and breastbone up and over the top of your head, back to the neck. The head circumference, “H,” will be used to make a neck opening full enough to go over your other clothes. The up & over distance, “U,” will help to determine how big to make the neck down toward the cut edge or the fold line opening and hood. of length twice D. Connect the end of this line with the end of L at the edge of the Fabric fabric. This sloping line defines the You will need a piece of fabric at least shoulder of the cape. A cape drapes better twice as long as L. More fabric will allow if its top edge has a bit more slope than the cape to be fuller, up to a limit of 4L your shoulder, hence the use of twice D (which makes a full circle). I wouldn’t go for the shoulder drop. Repeat this step for any narrower than 45-inch wide fabric. the other L line on the other side of the 60-inch fabric is better. Wider fabric also material. allows for a fuller cloak.

Page 12 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 blog for anyone who wants to be notified Pack. And a last one, “The Vaunting,” was made. He just finished “Voyagers IV: Pro Notes when new entries go up. On September just accepted for INTELLIGENT The Return” and handed it in to Tor. This 26-27, she will take part in the Advanced DESIGN, a spoof edited by Denise Little novel brings together the background Yes, it’s still hot in Phoenix. No, we don’t Screenwriting Workshop at the Kentucky (DAW), pub date yet to be announced. from the earlier Voyagers Trilogy with the usually have much weather here. Hi, Film Lab. The lab began only last year, For new readers wanting a preview of background to the GRAND TOUR series. Everyone! Thanks for reading and was so impressive that this year it is Janny’s storytelling - there are new teaser The Washington Post has asked Ben to ConNotations and my column. I’ve got sponsored by the Academy of Motion MP3 audio files of her reading, from write an op-ed piece: advice to the next lots of new names here this issue! Picture Arts and Sciences. That’s right— several titles, available for free download, President on how to run the space First up, I’ll welcome Mike Resnick the organization that gives out the both on her website, www.paravia.com/ program. (Wow! Way to go, Ben!) from Ohio. Mike had two novels out in Academy Awards. There will be Holly- JannyWurts, and also on her author page James Van Pelt, author and English August from Pyr: “Stalking the Unicorn,” wood people there, and Jean will be on Redroom.com. and new teaser teacher in Colorado, is having a good a 1987 reprint, and “Stalking the Vam- doing her best to make some connections. excerpts posted in the Paravia chat, for year. He sold stories in the last two pire,” a 1-year-later sequel. In November, A collection of her short stories, “Jean the new LIGHT AND SHADOWS book months to Realms of Fantasy, Analog, Isfic Press will published WHEN Lorrah Collected,” is newly available on now being drafted - title announced as Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, DIPLOMACY FAILS, an anthology Amazon.com through the Wildside/Borgo “Sword of the Canon, book 1, Initiate’s and Talebones. Also, his third collection Mike co-edited with Eric Flint. In Press/Amazon project. And her personal trial,” that will be forthcoming from of stories, “The Radio Magician and December, Subterranean Press will website is www.jeanlorrah.com HarperCollins London. Other Stories,” will be released from publish “Kilimanjaro” and Pyr will Don Maitz and Janny Wurts live in Also from Florida but not currently in Fairwood Press next summer. This publisher “Starship: Rebel.” In short Florida and we hope they’re keeping their residence there, is Ben Bova. Ben is summer Jim had stories reprinted in both fiction, summer sees the “Special Mike heads down – weatherwise - and all is spending some time in New Mexico and Gardner Dozois’s Year’s Best Science Resnick issue” of Subterranean Maga- well. Don, the artist known to me always tells me that he was given the Heinlein Fiction 25th edition, and David zine, which features two of his novellas; as the man who made Captain Morgan, Award, together with Spider Robinson. It Hartwell’s Year’s Best Science Fiction all future (and most prior) issues will tells me that calendars are his continuing was supposed to be announced at the 13th edition. have a Lucifer Jones story in them. Other spotlight at the moment. 2009 will see his WorldCon, but the award hardware forthcoming short fiction includes “A PIRATES! hang once again on a wall wasn’t available, so no announcement ( Continued on page 14 ) Most Unusual Greyhound” in URBAN near you! This edition is his fourth WEREWOLVES, “A Very Special Girl” calendar year featuring scurvy rascals. in BLOOD LIGHT, “Article of Faith” in Each previous edition has sold out at the the August PS (British) and the October publishers. There are actually 24 images Jim Baen’s Universe; “Best in Show” in in each edition as Don has oil paintings HERE BE DRAGONS; “A Better featured as the month’s center attraction Mousetrap” in NATURE; “Not Quite with captions included and a watercolor Alone in the Dream Quarter” (with Pat “spot” illustration appearing at the Cadigan) in FAST FORWARD 2; bottom of the monthly grid. Each month “Conspiracies: A Condensed 937-Page also features a pirate date of note in Novel” (with Eric Flint) in SIDEWAYS history. He has also a WIZARDS! IN CRIME; “Snatch as Snatch Can” in calendar issued for 2009. Not only are CITY FANTASTIC; and “Inescapable” in there spot illustrations located on the SONGS OF THE DYING EARTH. grid, but the grids themselves have been And from the wilds of Maine, I heard given a wizardly treatment. Not on to from Steve Miller and Sharon Lee that miss out on a pun - each month is treated this year — 2008 — is a banner year for as a “spell” which is independently the LIADEN Universe — this past affected by the wizard of the month. February marked the 20th anniversary of Within you will find: hot spells, cold the first publication of a LIADEN story. spells, wet spells, mis-spells, and dizzy In the 20 years since “Agent of Change” spells. A bit of personal Photoshop magic was first published they’ve written has transported a normal year into a several million words worth of LIADEN creative journey of mystical adventure. novels and stories, with three more Either way - your days are numbered in novels already in the pipeline, as well this 2009. Don has original pirate art hanging year’s annual Yule chapbook from SRM at the North Carolina Maritime Museum Publisher, Eidolon, still in the wings. Ace in Beaufort, NC for an exhibit titled Books is getting into the act again; “Knights of the Black Flag” on display starting this fall they’ll be reprinting the though October 26. Look for some of his first 10 LIADEN novels in mass market work to be published in a forthcoming editions — Also happening in 2008, book on the art illustrating Stephen King. “Duainfey,” a decidely un-Liaden dark His wife and partner, Janny Wurts, fantasy, the first of two set in a hard- reports that “Stormed Fortress” vol 8 of edged world where the Fey have a lock WARS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW is on magical power — and both use and getting its first printing from abuse that power. “Duainfey” came out in HarperCollins; London sold out in six hardback from Baen on September 2. months. The mass market is due for “Longeye,” the follow-on and close of release in London, on November 03, 08. the story, is due out in April 2009. Steve All the LIGHT AND SHADOW series, & Sharon will be at AlbaCon in Albany and “To Ride Hell’s Chasm” will be NY, in October, chaired by our friend, available in North America again in April Wombat. 09, in mass market format. She has a Jean Lorrah, in Kentucky, told me that new story out in THERE BE DRAGONS, she has started a blog; to be found at the DragonCon related anthology edited http://houseofkeon.blogspot.com/ . She by Bill Fawcett; another short, “Cat Call expects to post new entries once or twice 911,” coming out in CATOPOLIS from each month, and offer an RSS feed on the DAW, (Dec 08) edited by Janet Deaver- Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 13 ( Continued from page 13 ) TERRIBLY TWISTED TALES coming anthologies from Darrel Schweitzer, to win him his due. (See other news about Pro Notes out from DAW sometime in early 2009 Ellen Datlow, and Gardner Dozois; and is Peter in our Calendar) New Mexico seems to have a surfeit of and is currently working on a mystery— working on seven more shorts at this And last, but certainly not least, I get to authors so it’s not hard to score on one or ”At the Edge of the Forest”—and writing moment, including the two podcasts that welcome Greg Bear, who lives in more for my column. This month I heard it under a pseudonym. In addition, over will wrap up his set for the Green Man Washington. He shares that he’s cur- from Jane Lindskold who said that some 5 months (starting in March and Review; and he has even managed to rently working on a follow-on to November will see the release of “Thir- ending in July), Dennis designed (and write several lengthy new stories that will “Quantico” for Perseus/Vanguard. Hopes teen Orphans,” the first book in her new with the help of his Arizona gaming appear in the next collection from to have it finished early this winter. A few BREAKING THE WALL series. The group, debugged) a rather sophisticated Tachyon, WE NEVER TALK ABOUT surprises will be in store for those cover is dynamite, and the book is D20 space-ship gaming system using MY BROTHER, now scheduled for familiar with his earlier novel sequence already getting great reviews. Quote miniatures, with the ship-to-ship battles March 2008. As soon as his short fiction that begins with “Queen of Angels.” from the review in Library Journal: taking place in 3D, no less. It has a lot of commitments are caught up, he has to do That’s it for this month. I hope you “...deftly mingles the fascination of the new concepts (for example, to get around final polishes on “I’m Afraid You’ve Got enjoyed yourselves. And, as always - if mah-jongg tiles and the animal lore of the the speed of light limit, you jump from Dragons” and “Summerlong,” both of anyone wants to contribute or knows Chinese Zodiac with a modern tale of brane to several higher branes for which are now set to be released through someone who knows someone…please discovery and danger. This urban fantasy interstellar space travel). It’s a hoot to Conlan Press. For those of you following write to ConNotations or email me at should appeal to fans of Charles deLint play. Dennis will be at the World Fantasy Peter’s battles over “The Last Unicorn”: [email protected] – Catherine Book. and Jim Butcher and is an excellent Convention (in Calgary, Canada, this he still hasn’t settled with Granada Media choice for most libraries.” A sample year), and at TusCon. over the money they owe him on the film Previous ProNotes columns and book chapter should be up on her website From way south in Arizona, comes version of THE LAST UNICORN. He reviews are posted on our website at: (www.janelindskold.com ) by now. And Yvonne Navarro and her husband, Wes does get more than half of the income http://www.casfs.org/ConNotations/ from David Morrell: his next book, “The Ochse. Yvonne has a story called from the LAST UNICORN DVDs sold Spy Who Came for Christmas” (Oct. 28, “Revelations” up at HorrorWorld.org (it’s through Conlan Press Vanguard Press,) is a holiday action free to read it), and she also just had a (www.conlanpress.com), however, and novel. Although it isn’t fantasy or horror, story called “Last Storm of the Season” that helps pay the lawyers who are trying it does have a section that reinterprets the (set in our beloved Arizona) accepted by traditional nativity story from a spy’s the LOVESTROLOGY anthology. She perspective. Next January or February, just got a new agent and is hard at work David has a two part comic-book story on a novel, “Highborn.” Wes is currently coming out from Marvel. It features one on a signing tour for the Paperback of Marvel’s most famous superheroes, but release of his Bram Stoker Award at the moment, he can’t reveal the name Winning-novel, “Scarecrow Gods.” until Marvel makes a press announce- (There’s a video trailer on his website.) ment. David’s six-part series CAPTAIN He’ll be signing in Pennsylvania and then AMERICA: THE CHOSEN was among return to the Phoenix area for a few more the top-ten comic-book series of last year. signings. Wes’ novel “The Golden The hardback was released in July, and Thread,” the second book of a parallel the trade paperback is coming out this world trilogy, is due to be published in fall. September from Delirium Books. A And we have lots of authors in Arizona as Canadian Publisher, Burning Effigy well who consistently contribute. Alan Press, will publish a novella chapbook Dean Foster told me that “Quofum” will this October titled “Redemption be released by Del Rey on 29 October. Roadshow.” The narrative of the novella “Quofum” is a Commonwealth tale that takes place out on I-10 between Quartzite bears on Flinx’s story. Alan will be doing and Phoenix and centers around the a signing at the Poisoned Pen bookstore hundreds of shrines along the side of the in Scottsdale, AZ from 5:30 to 6:30 pm road. Wes and Yvonne will both be at on Saturday, 1 November, prior to TusCon this November. departing for London and North Africa in In California, Peter Beagle, confessed tandem with James Gurney. In April, that 2007 proved more difficult than Titan Books will publish his novelization originally expected, thanks to continuing of TERMINATOR: SALVATION, the family problems in the wake of his next film in the series. Dennis mother Rebekah’s 2006 death. Sadly, McKiernan was one of five judges for these problems delayed a lot of his the World Fantasy Awards. It was almost planned publications. But so far this year, a mind-numbing experience, he related, Peter has published or sold a number of but he managed to stay sane and still stories including a piece in ORSON make intelligent decisions in the nine SCOTT CARD’S INTERGALACTIC separate categories for the awards. It was MEDICINE SHOW (“The Tale of Junko a Herculean task, but they managed to and Sayuri”), two podcasts for the Green plow through over 250 books, a goodly Man Review (“The Stickball Witch” and number of magazines, and some other “Mr. McCaslin”), a contribution to miscellaneous writings. The candidates Marvin Kaye’s anthology A BOOK OF have been named, and a list of the WIZARDS (“What Tune the Enchantress candidates on the final ballot can be Plays”), a story for Jonathan Strahan’s found at http://www.worldfantasy.org/ original anthology ECLIPSE TWO (“The awards/ (this is where he gets to say, “My Rabbi’s Hobby”), a chapbook from lips are sealed”). And on top of all that, DreamHaven Books called STRANGE Dennis has a new MITHGAR novel— ROADS (containing “Uncle Chaim and ”City of Jade”—coming out in hardcover Aunt Rifke and the Angel,” “Spook,” and in October 2008. He wrote a short story, “King Pelles the Sure. He also has “Waifs,” that will appear in an anthology stories that will appear in upcoming Page 14 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 She was a wonderful and crazy At one con, I slept on a hotel mattress a traditional Friday afternoon opening In Memory woman that brought joy to many who lumpy because the BLOOPER REELS event. shall remain with us as long as the were tucked under me for safe keeping We’d talk on the phone for hours at a Don LaFontaine conventions go on. - Craig S. Rosenfeld (that was before people really knew what time about all the new TV shows and the Joan Winston they were but had only heard rumors). At SF books we were reading, and Joanie ————————————————— another, I carried some film cans that knew “everyone” and was known to Donald LaFontaine belonged to Gene Roddenberry as carry- “everyone” so I learned thousands of August 26, 1940 – September 1, 2008 ON JOAN WINSTON’S COAT TAILS on baggage on an airplane (I can just see things I couldn’t tell anyone. Even after I trying that today! The TSA guards don’t moved to Arizona, we talked and talked Don LaFontaine died on September 1, Joanie Winston was not only the key know what actual film looks like!) At yet and TALKED. 2008. He was a voiceover artist famous contributor to Star Trek Lives! by another, I was appointed guardian of I can’t tell you how I miss her! I can’t for recording more than 5,000 film Jacqueline Lichtenberg, Sondra Marshak Gene Roddenberry’s briefcase heavy with tell you how thankful I am to those who trailers and hundreds of thousands of and Joan Winston(Bantam paperback the (paper) manuscript for The Questor sent cards, photos, and visited her during television advertisements, network about Star Trek fans - a first in publish- Tapes. (top secret at the time) At yet the last year or so. Joanie was a giver. It promotions, and video game trailers. He ing, a book about fans of a TV show, not another occasion she brought a writing was her turn to be given to. became identified with the phrase “In a the show itself) but she became a best assignment to our hotel room — we had Live Long and Prosper, world...”, which was used in movie friend. to write the Voice Over text for a com- Jacqueline Lichtenberg trailers so often that it became a cliché. I first met her through Sondra mercial one of the stars was shooting — http://www.simegen.com/jl/ He parodied it several times, most Marshak. I had attended the first big Star in ONE HOUR! (we did it) And at Creator of the Sime~Gen Universe recently in a commercial for GEICO Trek convention in New York City, but another occasion, she brought me to one where a mutation makes the evolutionary insurance. just sitting in the audience, having just of the star’s rooms to give a Tarot reading division into male and female Fontaine is survived by his wife and commuted in from the northern suburb of because I was getting pretty good at that. pale by comparison. three daughters. NYC where I lived. At that convention, I There were literally hundreds of these [see “In A World Without Don heard two women behind me talking little incidents any time you got near the Fontaine” elsewhere in this issue] about Star Trek fanzines and in particular whirlwind known as Joanie. about this odd series of Trek stories in a We used to go clothes shopping Joan Winston single universe but by several people. together, raiding the NYC boutiques for 1931-2008 I turned around and said that I was the bargains, and later developed an annual author who created that universe. While tradition of going to Shore Leave (a Joan Winston is best remembered as we waited for Gene Roddenberry to Baltimore Star Trek convention) together. one of the most enthusiastic and energetic speak, Kraith Collected (to read it free, She’d take the bus up to my house in the Star Trek fans. In 1972, after the cancel- go to http://www.simegen.com/fandom/ suburbs, then I’d drive to Baltimore lation of the Star Trek, she and a few startrek/ ) was born because they were (we’d listen to Theodore Bikel or show friends decided to throw together a frustrated by the way all the stories were tunes like the music from Dirty Dancing gathering of folks who enjoyed Star Trek. spread over so many zines, some impos- and sing along!) Our duo routine became This small gathering quickly escalated to sible to find. a gathering of almost 12, 000 fans and At that convention, I also first shook was the birth of the Star Trek conven- hands with Gene Roddenberry, told him tions. about the Star Trek Lives! project and got Her role in Star Trek fandom earned his promise that he’d write us an intro- her the nickname “Mama Trek” and along duction — which years later, he did! with co-hosting 5 more Star Trek conven- But the next year, Sondra Marshak tions she was also a regular guest at insisted we all had to stay at the hotel for Shore Leave conventions. the whole convention. I blew into Star Joan wrote short stories for fanzines Trek fandom on Joan Winston’s coat tails. and other magazines, some science Literally. One blustery day I breezed into fiction and some romance but her best the hotel front doors following Joanie, know works are “Star Trek Lives!” carrying stuff for the convention. We (which she co-authored), “The Making of roomed with Joanie, and I helped sell the Trek Conventions: Or How to Throw signed photos of the stars and assorted a Party for 12,000 of Your Most Intimate collectibles from Joan’s table in the Friends” and “Startoons” which she dealer’s room. We also had the first edited. She was also a literary agent copies of the first volume of Kraith before retiring. Collected on the table (those days things Services were held Sunday September were printed on paper). 14th, 2008 at 9:30am at the Plaza Funeral That was the first time in my whole Home in Manhattan. In lieu of flowers, life that a total stranger ASKED FOR MY the family requests donations be made to AUTOGRAPH. I signed the cover of The Hebrew Home for the Aged at Kraith Collected 1 while selling things Riverdale located at 5901 Palisade for Joanie. Avenue, Bronx, NY 10471 who cared for Rooming with Joanie at cons or her in her final months. sleeping over at her Manhattan apartment Remembrances, tributes and photos if was always an adventure. I would go to you can give permission to publish, are Manhattan, pay the ridiculous parking being collected here: fees, and stay overnight with Joanie to http://www.simegen.com/joan.html watch her 3/4 inch JVC tapes of Star To contribute to that page email Trek! She got professional tape player [email protected] equipment via connections where she worked — long before such an item was for sale in retail stores.

Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 15 In A World Without Don He became the head of a major movie school Hottie but the most powerful LaFontaine trailer producer, Kaleidoscope Films, MangaZone vampire on campus. Which is hidden before forming his own company, Don Rosario+Vampire Volume 1 with a Rosario. This is a high school By Shane Shellenbarger LaFontaine Associates, in 1976. Not long by Akihisa Ikeda comedy. Vampires, Succubus, Ice afterward, Paramount hired him to do their VIZ Media, $7.99, 192 pages Demons OOOOH My! - You’ve heard Don Lafontaine, trailers and subsequently promoted him to ninjakittyofdoom though it’s doubtful you’d recognize his the position of vice president. In 1981, Tsukune Aono, age 15, is an average face unless you’ve seen his self-parody LaFontaine moved to Los Angeles where boy who thought he would never be Hell Girl Volume 2 in a Geico commercial, a Hollywood he was contacted by an agent who accepted into a high school after failing by Miyuki Eto Video commercial, or on Frank TV. His promoted him as a voiceover artist. His his exams. That is until his father comes Del Rey, $10.99, 208 pages nicknames include “Voice Master,” record for individual sessions in one day is home with a letter to get him into a “Thunder Throat,” “The King of the twenty-six and his record number of spots special school. His parents, happy at the In Volume 2 of Hell Girl we see five Movie Trailers,” and “The Voice of recorded in a single day, including trailers, thought of him leaving home and them more clients of Enma Ai, Keeper of the God”. His recorded movie trailers is 126. This caused him to hire a driver to not paying for school, say goodbye as he Hell Correspondence website. The site is number in the thousands and his network transport him from studio to studio until boards a bus to school. After a long bus only accessible at midnight and once promotions, video game trailers, and the advent of ISDN technology allowed ride he finds himself dropped off in, well, there you type in the name of the person television commercials number in the him to complete the spots from his the demon world and the high school he you want revenge on and then Enma hundreds of thousands. You’ve definitely Hollywood Hills home studio. He’s been finds is, to his dismay, full of demons. He fulfills your request. heard Don LaFontaines’ voice. How very active until recently, reducing his does find a friend, Moka. They bump into This volume=s clients range from could you have avoided it? workload to seven or ten voiceover each other while he is walking up to the friends, sisters, rivals, and couples. Most Born in Duluth, Minnesota on August sessions a day, with his fax machine school. It is love at first sight. Well for of the stories don’t always go as you may 26, 1940, LaFontaine has often told the delivering him scripts. Tsukune maybe, But for Moka she is very think they would. Also as a bonus Yon- story that at age 13 his voice changed in LaFontaine has been in ill health since attracted to his Blood. She is not only the koma ( Four panel strips) in the back are mid-sentence while speaking to his November of 2007.His death on Septem- ( Continued on page 17 ) mother. The following day at school, he ber 1st was attributed to complications was too embarrassed to speak, but soon from Pneumothorax, the presence of air or friends who wanted to skip class would gas in the pleural cavity, the result of a ask him to call the school posing as their collapsed lung. His wife, singer/actress fathers. While enlisted in the U.S. Army Nita Whitaker, and three daughters he worked as a recording engineer for Christine, Skye, and Elyse survive him. the Army Band and Chorus, continuing http://www.donlafontaine.com/DLF2007/ in the field after his discharge in 1962 Intro.html when he went to work in New York City http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ for the National Recording Studios. Don_LaFontaine During that period, he began his collabo- http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0480963/ ration with Floyd Peterson, producing http://www.etonline.com/news/2008/09/ radio spots for the movie, Dr. 64990/index.html Strangelove. In 1963, they started their http://www.newsfromme.com/archives/ own advertising production company 2008_09_04.html#015768 that concentrated on the movie industry. http://shaneshellenbarger.blogspot.com/ It was during this time; LaFontaine 2008/09/don-lafontaine-voice-of-god- dead-at-68.html http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=7QPMvj_xejg http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ZJMGS7l0wT8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n44- Z9XyS58 http://thatvideosite.com/video/3421 http://www.newswiretoday.com/news/ 10852/ http://www.creatingsuccesspodcast.com/ Podcasts/P_77.mp3 http://www.creatingsuccesspodcast.com/ PopUps/ developed the movie catch phrases that http://www.harrisonline.com/audio/ made him famous including, “in a world voiceover.mp3 . . .” In an interview published in 2007, http://www.independent.co.uk/arts- LaFontaine commented that the phrase entertainment/film-and-tv/the-greatest- allowed him to rapidly establish the hits-of-don-lafontaine-917782.html world into which the audience was being http://bobsouer.com/blog/2008/08/26/ transported. “That’s very easily done by please-pray-for-don-lafontaines-health/ saying, ‘In a world where . . . men are http://www.youtube.com/ slaves and women are the conquerors.’ watch?v=awlqbcJZd38&feature=related You very rapidly set the scene.” http://www.youtube.com/ LaFontaine began his voice acting watch?v=RMngjDMZTWo career when while working on Gunfight- http://nikkistrongvoice.blogspot.com/ ers of Casa Grande in 1964. When a 2008/08/don-lafontaines-health.html voice actor became unavailable, http://www.voiceoveruniverse.com/video/ LaFontaine was forced to fill-in so he video/ could present trailer spots to MGM, show?id=2070077%3AVideo%3A65557 which they then bought. Page 16 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 MangaZone ( Continued from page 16 ) Star Trek: The Manga Volume 3: Uchu Bardic style. In his rendition of CORDIAL AND MEAD by David Gerrold, Nathaniel Bowden, Greensleeves the guitar style evokes the © Leslie Fish, 8/31/08 dark and very funny. If you like stories as Luis Reyes sound of the Harpsichord. TokyoPop, $10.99, 192 pages you would find in The Night Gallery, He includes Songs of Wandering Lord Craig o’ the White, Cliffs, a grand Amazing Stories, and Twilight Zone then Bards (Bard of the Wandering Highway, distiller was he. you will love this dark series. - Star Trek: The Manga Volume 3 Ranblin Rover and Gypsy Rover), a Song Ne’er were finer potions found this side o’ ninjakittyofdoom brings us four more stories in the Star of Dalliance (Greensleeves) A Drinking the sea. Trek TOS universe. Song (Three Jolly Coachman), Songs of And when he brought his goods to share Alice on Deadlines Volume 1 In Bandi by David Gerrold a teddy Conflict ( Hal N Toe, Black Arrow, The the gentry came wi’ speed by Shiro Ihara bearlike creature Bandi runs amok on the Ballad of the Three Kings, Minstrel Boy, For his 40 flavors o’ cordial and 13 Yen Press, $10.99, 192 pages Enterprise while in Art of War by Wil The Bardic Battle), a Song of Humorous flavors of mead. Wheaton we have a Klingon confronta- Whimsy (Scourge of the Orkney Hills) Lapan is an underachiever as a tion that perhaps begins to see a lessening and a Song of Nostalgia (The Ash Chorus: Shinigami. He would rather laze around of Kirk’s resolute hatred of them. Grove). Cordial and mead! Cordial and mead! reading shinigami perverted Magazines Inalienable Rights by Nathaniel This is best Bardic Music CD I have What finer drink could ever ye need? Gary instead of doing his reaping job. Punished Bowden brings us a society in which the encountered in recent years. — 40 flavors of cordial and 13 flavors of Swaty by his section chief he is sent to earth as a subjugated are awakening to their power mead. skeleton to apprehend a Shibito ( corpses and finally in The Humanitarian by Luis that eat the flesh of humans to live). Enter Reyes we see another side of Spock as a Lord Craig o’ the White Cliffs served the Alice an uptight upper crust school girl mission goes horribly wrong. New Middle Age. who ends up being at the wrong place at Again the stories vary in their faithful- At every war and revel were his potions the wrong time. Through a mix-up Alice ness to the characters but are all enjoy- all the rage. able. Also again, the art work varies from ends up with her soul possessing the (Continued on page 18 ) skeleton meant for Lapan and Lapan ends story to story and while some is spot on, up in her body. Lapan, being a pervert, is others are such that the characters are completely happy with the situation while hardly recognizable. Still these are a must Alice, now a skeleton, must keep remind- for the complete Star Trek collector. - ing him to act like a lady and stop trying Stephanie L Bannon to grope her body. People start noticing that Alice is acting kind of strange at school, which catches the attention of the Star Trek: Year Four priest who seems to be more than just a by David Tischman priest. Danger and Hilarity ensue in this IDW Publishing, $19.99, 152 pages manga - ninjakittyofdoom While this is a graphic novel as Star Trek: The Manga Volume 2: opposed to a manga it is very well Kakan ni Shinkou written, the art work is beautiful and the by Diane Duane, Christine Boylan, Wil characters, both as written and drawn, are Wheaton pretty much spot on. Following the TokyoPop, $9.99, 216 pages adventures of the original crew in the fourth year of their five year mission this There are five stories in this volume volume is divided into 7 chapters, each a with contributions by Wil Wheaton and story that reads much like a script from Diane Duane among others. the TV show. I particularly enjoyed the In Cura Te Ipsum by Wil Wheaton we story where the crew finds themselves find Scotty trying to extract dilithium trapped in a world where TV shows are crystals from a mine in a war zone while the ultimate reality, Kirk tries to bring peace to the warring Highly recommended. - Stephanie L sides. The Trial by Mike Wellman finds Bannon Kirk on trial for crimes he has committed, and those he might commit in the future. Communications Breakdown by Christine Musical Notes Boylan in which Uhura demonstrates the true power of communication as the Bard of the Wandering Highway Enterprise answers an unusual distress Performed by Darren Reale call.. Scaean Gate by Diane Duane finds Recorded and Mixed by Carey Oltman the Enterprise escorting a monarch to her assisted by Sherry Kelly new home and finally, Forging Alliances Photography and Graphics by Sherry by Paul Benjamin in which we learn more Kelly of Spock and Vulcan emotions. Mr. Reale’s assistant John Kelly The stories vary in their faithfulness Mr. Reale’s Web Site – to the characters but are all enjoyable. www.myspace.com/realemusic The art work varies from story to story Format CD and while some is spot on, others are such that the characters are hardly Darren Reale presented his History of recognizable. These are called Amanga@ Bardic Music at CopperCon 28. It was but are more accurately graphic novels or enjoyed by all. even comics but they are a must for the He donated this CD for review in complete Star Trek collector. - Stephanie ConNotations. The CD is made up of L Bannon traditional Bardic songs well known to Folk Musicians and Filkers alike. It is excellently performed in traditional Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 17 Musical Notes (Continued from page 17 ) maintaining their cover identities. When But it’s so much fun in the context of By Schism Rent Asunder her father offers sanctuary to a spy for the parodies of Superman, Spiderman, By David Weber To celebrate the victors and to comfort the Westside, their mission becomes irrepara- Wonder Woman, et al. And it’s not a Tor Books, 2008, 511 Pages, $25.95 losers’ need bly compromised. Fleeing to their own parody of squeaky-clean juvenilia, either. Were his 40 flavors of cordial and 13 timeline, they nevertheless resolve to One member, Power Grrrl, is a lesbian This is second installment of David flavors of mead. (Cho.) return in disguise and continue the pop-music teen idol. Two of the six are Weber’s saga of the interaction between research, not knowing that Dan has found black men, one young, one old, and their the corrupt orthodoxy of the Church of Lord Craig o’ the White Cliffs revived the their cache of crosstime supplies and arguments about racism get – fierce. So God Awaiting and the free thinking Pagans too. technology. there’s something in this for much of our inhabitants of Tallesberg in the Kingdom They sang and danced and praised the The narrative style is deceptively modern society. Especially since the final of Charis on the planet Safehold. As is gods well fueled by his brew. simple; a young person may take at face battle is right out of our current politics. I usual in a Weber novel, he steals from They did no other sacrifice but to make value many statements that are actually so suppose the younger the reader, the less Terrestrial history. I am reminded of a John Barleycorn bleed heavy with irony you could slather it on experience of life to appreciate some of line in an Asimov poem which reads For his 40 flavors of cordial and 13 bread. For example, the captain of the this – oh my, that applies to all of approximately “Take an empire that was flavors of mead. (Cho.) Valley militia had been shot in the arm, literature! ‘Nuff said! Fanboys and Roman and place it in the star studded but he recovers and returns to duty. “The fangirls of all ages, don’t miss this one! - milkyway.” In this case Weber takes the Lord Craig o’ the White Cliffs delighted sling he still wore somehow lent him M.L. Fringe Reformation and the Thirty Years War the SciFi fen. extra authority – it showed he’d been and replicates them on the planet His potions would inspire them with hope through the worst war can do” [italics Safehold. It should be tiresome but it is for the future of men. mine]. Dan’s opinions of the shreds of not. ‘Twas easy to dram of reaching the stars education that are still passed down by The story is complex, but it is the and serving the spacers’ creed rote do not bode well for this world’s characters who make it live. One central On his 40 flavors of cordial and 13 flavors future, and Liz recognizes this with of mead. (Cho.) ( Continued on page 19 ) sadness and horror. But as Liz tells her parents, “He’s ignorant; he’s not stupid.” Lord Craig o’ the White Cliffs, he made Perhaps the crosstime contamination will the aliens friends, set off a renaissance. I suspect that the For when we first encountered them we last line of the book, when Liz is cat- offered them his blends. egorically certain she’ll never see Dan And excellent peace-maker for all carbon again, is another touch of irony. life-form breeds I especially recommend this book for Were his 40 flavors of cordials and 13 consideration as an addition to high flavors of meads. school libraries and reading lists. – Chris Paige Cordial and mead! Cordial and mead! What finer drink could ever ye need? From the Notebooks of Dr. Brain 40 flavors of cordial and 13 flavors of by Minister Faust mead. Del Rey Books, 2007, 392 pp., $13.95

In Our Book If you are a fan of superhero comic books, you must read this novel. If you The Valley-Westside War hate the pop-psychology counseling by Harry Turtledove movement, you must read it. Or, if you Tor Books, 2008; 285 p; $24.95 love psychotherapy, you must read it. It’s a parody of group counseling, when six I met Harry Turtledove briefly at members of the USA’s super team the LosCon last year. I felt that I had met a Fantastic Order of Justice are required to rabbi in exile. He is tall, and he was enter therapy for disruptive behavior. Yes, supernally quiet, unless he had something they are a pastiche of the main heroes of of moment to say. Fortunately, he has a Marvel-DC, with a plotline from Watch- great deal to say in his books and stories. men: who killed Hawk King? The end This is the sixth in the Crosstime Traffic result of the therapy: the July 16 Massa- series, but it works just fine as a stand- cre. Funny? Some laughs, more chuckles, alone; you can start with this one easily, constant smiles. and then go looking for the others. This book is written as if another in a Liz is 18 years old, on her first series of self-help bestsellers by Dr. Crosstime Traffic assignment. Her Brain, using the six team members as a parents are the real agents; she has come case study. Her title: Unmasked! When along as protective camouflage and Being a Superhero Can’t Save You From research assistant to a timeline where a Yourself. Chapters and subsections are 1967 nuclear war between Russia and the similarly titled, and the piling on of United States has left most of the world metaphors and psychobabble is hilarious. in rubble. Liz is searching the ruined But there is always real benefit coming remains of UCLA Library for clues to the from this self-help parody. Consider two divergence. But a local war between the of the recurring thematic questions: Valley militia and the Westside army “What will it mean for your life, and your breaks out, and now Liz is moving view of yourself, if the glory days never through occupied territory. A young return? How will you face knowing that Valley soldier, Dan, who is an honest you will never exceed, or even equal, the soldier and very observant, if naïve, takes accomplishments of your predecessors?” a liking to Liz and discovers much more These aren’t just for superheroes; it really about her real nature than is good for is for you, the dear reader and citizen. Page 18 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 In Our Book ( Continued from page 18 ) blance to a movie I saw once… I really some strain of potential; Rhiana has an His sister’s immediate rush to his liked Terry Hayman’s – about a spoiled extraordinarily high potential that has defense, also really works; her absolute character is the immortal Stored personal- prince saved by the love of a good been trained into actual power. Richard is belief in her brother’s innocence and her ity of Nimue Alban, adviser to King woman, even as trite as it was. But the an anomaly, and that means he has the determination to get at the truth all spring Caleb, who was put in place by those in title could’ve been better. I’ve always potential for something else. He is one of from the deep pain of having failed him - the original settlement group who enjoyed fox-stories/legends and the one the only living humans capable of and the reader understands and feels it opposed the creation of the Church of from Jacey Bedford was a little treat. activating and wielding an object of great with her. Too, his faerie characters have God Awaiting. Additionally on the side of Now I have to be honest here. I’m not power. their own motivations and reasons for Good we have Caleb, The Free Thinking a short-story kind of reader, aside from Spoiler alert! The extraordinary what they do; very few of which map up King of Charis, Sharleyan, the strong and Bradbury. Most short stories seem rushed premise of this story is that all the gods to human motivations. The story doesn’t brilliant Queen of Chisholm, Maikal, the to me and tend to exist for the closing who have figured in history, mythology, flag, just drives right on to the end, which reform-minded Archbishop of Tallesberg line or pun. I know that a collection such and Lovecraftian lore are actually entities is note-perfect. It’s also a welcome and a legion of other wonderful charac- as this one is supposed to carry a theme, from other planes of existence who broke change to find a really satisfying fantasy ters. The villains are equally well-drawn and this one does that – mostly. There through to this world; most of them series are also quick reads. Do be sure to including, Hektor, the truly nefarious were two that didn’t belong, in my regard humans as particularly tasty read the first book before diving into this King of Corisande, Clyntahn, the Truly opinion, to a collection about love and sources of their favorite forms of energy: one. Highly recommended. - Nadine Evil Grand Inquisitor of The Church of dating. They belong in a horror collec- pain, fear, hate, and suffering. The Armstrong God Awaiting, Zahmsyn, Chancellor of tion. But the rest fit. Taken as a whole, exception is a renegade god who has tried the Council of Vicars of the Church of the book was moderately entertaining but to restore humans to their heritage of The Graveyard Book God Awaiting and leader of the Corrupt I think I’ll leave the reviews to someone evolution. Sound familiar? Yeah, it’s by Neil Gaiman “Group of Four” and other wonderful who really appreciates them. – Catherine Prometheus, and yeah, he has gone by HarperCollins, 2008, $17.99 venal characters. Then there are a myriad Book other names as well. And that object of of well-drawn ordinary people caught in power? It’s a sword, disguised as a Klein Neil Gaiman’s latest novel, The Grave- the middle. The Edge of Reason bottle, and it can close the portals of yard Book, is written with a younger Having defeated the forces of by Melinda Snodgrass access against the old gods. Needless to readership in mind, but still can send Emerald, Chisholm and Corisande at sea Tor Books, 381 p, $24.95 say, they really, really don’t want Richard some chills down your spine. It starts off off Armageddon Reef, King Caleb’s to get his hands on it; or if he does, they with the murder of a family, except for a problems are far from over. As events Set in Albuquerque, New Mexico and want him suborned by any means, and toddler who manages to find his way to a develop he finds surprising allies among parts of the east coast, The Edge of their means get very mean indeed. nearby cemetery. There he is found by a his former enemies in Emerald and Reason is an SF thriller about a young I strongly recommend this book to all ghost couple, Mr. and Mrs. Owens, who Chisholm. Corisande must be dealt with cop named Richard Oort who finds our readers. It is well-written, provoca- adopt him and raise him with the help of and economic warfare is waged by the himself on the cutting edge of a titanic tive, evocative, and timely. Cheers for a vampire and some other unlikely corrupt “Group of Four” who Rule the battle between powers who wish to Tor! I hope Snodgrass writes a sequel. – characters. Not knowing his name, he’s Church of God Awaiting. promote advances in science and human- Chris Paige given the name Nobody, or “Bod”, and In the minds of the Orthodox Church- istic philosophy and the men, gods, and with the assistance of Silas, the vampire, man the True Church ordained and monsters who batten on war, ignorance, Steward of Song they are able to provide him with food Infallible is threatened by Heretics. The and superstition. Melinda Snodgrass was by Adam Stemple and clothes. Arrangements are made for Heretics initially are reacting to the a scripts consultant and editor for Star Tor, $23.95 teaching and other instruction, via other “Group of Four’s” arbitrary decision to Trek, The Next Generation and co-creator, ghosts in the graveyard and from a destroy them. They just want business as along with George R.R. Martin, of The This sequel to Singer of Souls finds werewolf, and eventually at a nearby usual, but the events off Armageddon Wild Card series, so her bona fides are junkie Doug Stewart trying to cope with school. All the while, his existence and Reef have made that impossible and they impeccable, and if her name is enough to the consequences of that book. Events parentage needs to be kept secret since must forge a new path. move you to read this book, then skip the that are set in motion when he is given the murderer of his family is still on the The story is wonderful, but be rest of this review, because then you will drugs that enable him to see Faerie-and to lookout for him, needing to finish the job warned, it is not complete. It could take get to experience the surprises in the tap in to his tremendous magical powers to prevent a prophecy from coming true. several more books. I recommend it. - story as she intends them, with no spoiler. over them. Now, Doug’s half-faerie son Each chapter of the book deals with Gary Swaty In a way, The Edge of Reason is like has been born, and his servant Martes, Bod’s life at different times of his life as an episode of The Twilight Zone. The mindful of Doug’s vow to kill him, and of he grows to be a young man and we get a Mystery Date protagonist has a tortured past, having the prophecy that he will destroy Doug, few glimpses into what’s happening in edited by Denise Little experienced some of the worst humanity hides him away. Meanwhile, the vicious the outside world as Silas and others try Daw Books, $7.99, 308 pp is capable of inflicting. But his sense of killing of Doug’s grandmother has been to protect him. We meet a wide range of wonder, hope, and determination have discovered, and the Edinborough police characters both residents of the graveyard This is an anthology of 17 stories been tempered, not extinguished, and he begin hunting for Doug. Doug’s sister, and some from outside in the rest of the about dating inhuman or unhuman has resolved to champion order and however, begins looking for the real world. Through it all, Bod learns and beings. I liked most of them. Pauline justice in spite of all coercive, corrupting, killer. grows and we get a real sense of what it Alama’s had a unsatisfying ending. Diane and even arcane influences. He crosses This book is a welcome return to was like to be raised the way he was and Stuckart’s was entertaining but trite. Jody the Twilight Zone when he goes to the urban fantasy’s roots. Urban fantasy how difficult it is for him to finally leave Lynn Nye’s should have been better. rescue of a young woman named Rhiana originally referred to gritty stories set in it all behind. Gaiman has put together a Kristine K. Rusch’s was the best – I loved who is being pursued by mud monsters. cities, often featuring rock n’ roll and story with some very creepy elements, this one. It was a very different view of Rhiana knows things, and she has arcane elves. Charles de Lint’s early Newford some genuinely scary situations, and an faery. (I would read the novel.) Diane powers of her own; this puts her at the books, Terri Windling’s Bordertown ending that might just bring a few tears to Duane’s was great – exciting and a little center of a maelstrom of conflicting series, and Emma Bull’s seminal War for your eyes. Like his previous younger mysterious. Laura Resnick was so well- interests, human and otherwise. After the Oaks are all examples of this. Now, of reader novel, Coraline, it reads well for written but I saw the end coming. Alice they escape the mud men, they find course, the term has come to mean things young readers as well as those of us who Henderson wrote a truly awful little story sanctuary with a mysterious, and very like Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake have a few years on us. With illustrations that I disliked intensely – not because it wealthy, patron of the arts and sciences books-very different in tone and feeling by Dave McKean, it will make a good wasn’t well-written but because I don’t named Kenntnis. A most strange derelict from the earlier books. Stemple really book to put in the hands of a younger like ghouls much. Jean Rabe’s was a lot keeps company with Kenntnis, and this nails his characters: Doug’s transforma- reader, but you may want to read it first of fun – a great little story of “all’s fair in unkempt person discerns in Richard one tion from well-intentioned and struggling since you likely won’t get the chance to love” when trying to date Clark Gable. of the rarest of human qualities: an utter junkie to all-powerful monster wallowing get it back once it’s out of your hands. There was one by Scott William Carter lack of genetically-based potential for in guilt and anger over the murder of his Collectors should note that there will be a that bore more than a passing resem- any kind of magic. Most humans have grandmother is completely believable. B(Continued on page 20) Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 19 In Our Book ( Continued from page 19 ) stop action. It is a furious mélange of salt enough for both of them. This book is and Mau first come together (starting limited signed edition released by battles both personal and battalion- a lark, with some very funny dialogue with a tea party and ending with them Subterranean Press (which may already driven, new and familiar locales and old showcasing the war of latency between both almost drowning), Daphne helping be sold out) as well as different editions and new characters. boys and girls. – Chris Paige to deliver a baby with only a 100 year old released in the UK by the British pub- The story is set in the time before the Mariner’s Medical Companion for lisher, Bloomsbury, including a children’s events of Star Wars III: The Revenge of Nation reference, Mau having to figure out how edition illustrated by Chris Riddell and a the Sith. Anakin Skywalker is a full- by Terry Pratchett to get milk from a pig, Mau and Daphne limited, signed, slipcase edition. Full fledged Jedi Knight and along with his HarperCollins Hardback $16.99 both interacting with the Grandfathers details can be found at mentor Obi Wan Kenobi, he fights the and the Grandmothers, and several other www.thegraveyardbook.com - Lee good fight whereever the Republic needs The latest novel by Terry Pratchett is quite interesting happenings along the Whiteside him. not what you might expect from someone way. The book strikes a good balance He and Kenobi have been currently who has a long running series of humor- between humor and adventure, fleshes Lord Tophet fighting Separatist forces who want to ous fantasy novels about a place called out the characters quite well, giving you by Gregory Frost weaken the Republic. The Clone Wars are the Discworld. Even though it is the 25th their perspective on what’s going on, and Del Rey, paperback, $14.00 in full swing throughout the galaxy eating Anniversary of Discworld, Pratchett has telling a very good story in the process. away at the entrenched Republic’s opted to release a book that is not The book is being marketed as a Young This is another sequel to support. connected to Discworld at all. As he has Adult novel, but it is very much a book Shadowbridge which was published In the midst of these events: two mentioned in several interviews, it is a for all ages. The two main characters earlier this year. We last saw Leodora she things happen: Jabba the Hutt’s child book he felt needed to be written, and should appeal to boys and girls, and the was walking into a Dragon Bowl in a Rotta is kidnapped and Anakin finds that’s what he wrote. So, forget any writing level is not softened or toned decaying city. The gods have decided to himself the Master to a fourteen-year-old preconceived notions about Terry down, making it a good read for anyone. grant Leodora a gift - to the city. When female Padawan named Ahsoka, a Pratchett you might have and sit down for It also mixes in some science that might Leodora is found in the Bowl, buildings member of the Torgruta race. a very good read with his new novel just inspire a young mind, and that’s that were old and falling apart have been Jabba pleads with the Republic to Nation. It takes place on an Earth fairly definitely a good thing. I really enjoyed it renewed, streets repaired, and gardens are send Jedi after his missing child and close to ours during the Victorian era and and I think it has a good chance to collect in bloom. Her musician, Diverus, has met Chancellor Palpatine agrees. So Kenobi the height of the British empire, but most a few awards during next year’s round of a mysterious benefactor who offers the and Skywalker are assigned to track of it takes place on a small island in award ceremonies. So, if you’ve been troupe lodging at her theater; a theater down the kidnapped Huttlet. remote waters (The Great South Pelagic afraid to delve into the Discworld and closed and destroyed after the great Of course, there are layers and layers: Ocean) where happenstance strands two some of his earlier non-Discworld work Bardsham’s appearance there. Mean- Count Dooku is behind the kidnapping very different young people who work didn’t seem interesting , this is a good while, Leodora has been gifted with a because he wants access to Hutt-con- together to rebuild a Nation. place to introduce yourself to the writing spirit guide in the shape of a lion neck- trolled Outer Rim space lanes and Jabba Things start off very ominously when of Terry Pratchett. lace, and the mysterious people who have plays Dooku against the Jedi for his own a Tsunami wipes out everyone on a small Notes (footed and otherwise, I’ll let been pursuing them across the world of ends. The book is full of players manipu- island except for Mau, a young boy who the reader figure out where they should Shadowbridge are coming closer. lating events, battles and people. was in the water when the wave hit go in the review): I found this book slightly less compel- And in the midst of this the two more returning from his manhood ritual. As a Disclaimer, Lee Whiteside is ling than I did the first one, probably seasoned Jedi have to deal with the However, since everyone was waiting for chairing the upcoming North American because I loved the worldbuilding, nearly untried, but extremely intelligent juve- his return on the beach, they were all Discworld Convention, so has read a few all of which was accomplished in the first nile, Ahsoka. wiped out. As he collects and sends the Terry Pratchett novels (not all of them, book. However, we definitely are moving Traviss spins a great story full of dead onward, he begins to lose his sanity but he’s working on it). However, other on with the plot. Frost’s work has always battles and hairsbreadth’s escapes, but she and doubt his gods. Elsewhere on the people in his acquaintance who are not been notable for his skillful prose, which also gives the characters depth, especially island, a ship caught up in the wave has Discworld fans have also read Nation and owes a great deal to traditional fairytales, Anakin who is constantly tortured by his crashed with the only human survivor have really enjoyed the book. Hearing and yet has a very modern clarity of perceived failure to save his mom, a being a young girl named Daphne, who Terry talk about the book you can tell he sound to it. This book is no exception. growing doubt about the all-encompass- very much isn’t prepared to survive by is really proud of it and enjoyed writing it Also, as I said in my review of ing good of the Republic and his love for, herself on a desert island. She was on her and creating it. When reading from it at Shadowbridge, it’s great to see a fantasist and still secret marriage to, Padme. way to join her father, who is a governor the UK Discworld convention, he found mining non-western cultures for ideas, A great addition to the Star Wars on one of the British colonies, Port it hard to stop, reading a good bit more of and that hasn’t changed. The story moves oeuvre. - Sue Martin Mercia. Mau and Daphne do come it than he had originally planned. Even along quickly, and it keeps you guessing together and eventually learn to commu- though I had already read the book, until the very end as to the pursuers and Half Moon Investigations nicate and work together to survive and hearing him read from it made me want to their motives are. And, like the Stemple by Eoin Colfer actually rebuild the island as other read it again. This is also the first non- novel, it’s a relief to read an excellent Miramax Books, 2006; 290 p; $16.95 survivors from nearby islands start to turn Discworld novel he’s published in 12 fantasy series which are actually easily up. However, some of the non-natives are years, and an author writing outside of portable volumes, nor will you feel that Eoin Colfer, author of the Artemis still around and pose a threat to their his main series is always under additional you are missing anything or that the book Fowl books, is one more instance of well-being and Mau, Daphne and the scrutiny. Also, aside from J.K. Rowling, was shortened unnaturally. The two proof positive that some of the best others must deal with them as well. Terry Pratchett has been the bestselling books do in fact read as one complete British authors are, in fact, Irish. Here is a Meanwhile, due to an epidemic that author in Great Britain for the last decade story. People who enjoyed Catherynne soft-boiled 12-year-old private detective wipes out a good number of British or so. Signed U.K. editions can be Valente’s Orphan’s Tales, Hal Duncan’s for our delectation – Fletcher Moon, who royalty, Daphne’s father, 138th in line to ordered via pjsmprints.com in the U.K. - Vellum, or who like strong female has completed an online class (using his the throne, is now King, and The Gentle- Lee Whiteside characters or unusual worldbuilding Father’s birth certificate) to qualify as a men of Last Resort have set out to make should pick up this duology, as should registered PI, complete with badge. He sure the new King is properly crowned on Bloodheir readers who enjoyed Shadowbridge. - has had his share of minor triumphs, but British soil. However, he’s out trying to by Brian Ruckley Nadine Armstrong when a spate of petty thievery hits his find his daughter, who never made it to Orbit paperback 14.99 school, he follows the time honored Port Mercia due to the Tsunami. On top Star Wars: The Clone Wars traditions of suffering bodily injury, of it all, Daphne makes an important This dark violent fantasy is the second by Karen Traviss; misprisonment, compromised principals, scientific discovery about the island and book in The Godless World series. Long Ballantine Books, $20, 256pp. and true love’s loss as he solves the first Mau’s ancestors. ago, the world’s gods departed in anger hard case of his career. Every PI needs a That summary of the book’s plot only after a racial war exterminated one of the This novelization of the current sidekick or partner, and Fletcher is forced scratches the surface of what happens five races that they created. Since then, animated feature from Lucasfilm has non- into alliance with Red Sharkey, who has along the way, including how Daphne ( Continued on page 21 ) Page 20 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 In Our Book ( Continued from page 20 ) Black Road. We also saw the dissension characters are multi-faceted and interest- series for SciFi), and the erotic ghost the Anain have withdrawn completely, and maneuvering for power in the ing. I could wish for some more exposi- story Frost Flowers being developed as a and the Kyrinin and Huanin have warred remaining Huanin has allowed them that tion. I hate ‘as you know Bob’ infodumps motion picture. He’s also been working between each other off and on. In the first opportunity. Now the Black Road Thanes as much as anyone, and it’s great to see a on a supernatural thriller novel series, the book, we saw the exile of the Huanin have control over most of their ancient writer clearly knows so much about the first two of which are available in the US people who have created the heresy homeland, and very few have the power world without telling us every little tiny from Grand Central Publishing (with two referred to as the Black Road. They left to oppose them. Now, in this book, detail, but. It is never clear what the more on the way with more to come). believe that if lives are lived a certain we see the beginning of the opposition, as Black Road actually is, or why it’s The series is set in England and way, and certain tasks are complete, a god well as the secrets and life of the Black considered so bad. Is it because it has focuses on Felix Castor, who has the will come back to the world. Driven into Road. nothing to do with any of the former ability to summon and exorcize ghosts. exile because of this belief, they have This book is well-written and owes a gods? Is religion itself heretical? Is this He’s also an amateur magician and a waited for hundreds of years for their great deal to both Steven Erikson’s really a religious thing or is it a philoso- really good lockpick. In Felix’s world, in chance to return to their homes and to Malazan Book of the Fallen and George phy? It’s never really made clear. There recent years, ghosts have started becom- force the rest of their people to follow the R.R. Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire. The are no real cultural clues as to why this ing more and more prevalent, becoming world is complex and fascinating, the was such an awful thing that people had more visible to everyone with some of them re-inhabiting their bodies or to be murdered and becoming loup-garous and becoming exiled over it. The morphed animal representations of Black Road lifestyle human. Needless to say, this change in isn’t pleasant, but how the recently departed has led to a few much of that is due to changes in normal life and even legisla- the Black Road and tion to protect the living dead. how much due to the Felix and others have the ability to fact that they now live bind the ghosts and cause them to in a very hostile disappear, presumably moving on from environment, with our plane of existence to the next one. little food and neigh- Where they actually go is unknown, and bors who constantly Felix doesn’t like to think about that war on them? Also not much. Also playing roles in the novels are clear. This won’t Felix’s friend and Landlady, Pen, to bother all readers, and whom he always owes rent, and who if you’re looking for usually helps watch Felix’s back. There’s something to read Rafi, who is/was Pen’s lover that Felix while waiting for helped to bind the demon Asmadeus to Dance of Dragons to and is currently residing in a sanatarium come out, you could and, as the first novel starts, is the reason certainly do worse. that Felix has not been active as an Other people who will exorcist, believing himself to be respon- be interested are fans sible for his friend’s condition. of Viking lore and In The Devil You Know, Felix visits people looking for Rafi and is told by Asmadeus that he will believable and well- take on a new job and that it will get him executed battle scenes, killed. When Felix is approached to or just someone exorcize a ghost from the prestigious looking for a new epic Bonnington Archive, he initially rejects fantasy series with a the offer but then decides to take it on slightly different take. after a job as a magician at a kids Recommended. - birthday party fails miserably and he Nadine Armstrong needs the cash to catch up on his rent. What appears at first to be a simple job The Devil You Know banishing a ghost soon turns complicated by Mike Carey and Felix finds himself embroiled in a Grand Central murder mystery that brings him into Publishing, paper- contact with a high-level London sex- back, $6.99 slave trader, a fellow exorcist on the slave-trader’s payroll, and a succubus Vicious Circle Ajulutsikael (Juliet) that has been by Mike Carey summoned to take him out. Grand Central The reader is drawn into Felix’s world Publishing, Hard- quite thoroughly between snippets of his back, $24.99 backstory and the goings-on as he digs deeper into the mystery of the ghost he’s Mike Carey is a been asked to banish. At first, it appears British writer who has that the ghost, a sad, but recently vicious, been known primarily apparition of a Russian woman, is tied to for his work in comics, a recently acquired Russian collection from Vertigo’s Lucifer obtained by the archive, but it quickly and Crossing Mid- becomes apparent that the ghost is more night, Marvel’s The X- recent and that there are forces trying to Men, Virgin Comics’ keep him from finding out the truth. Until The Stranded (which is he knows the circumstances of her death, being turned into a TV ( Continued on page 22 ) Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 21 In Our Book (Continued from page 21) Riders of the Storm Time Machines Repaired While U Wait the werewolves. Will anyone get what by Julie E. Czerneda by K. A. Bedford they really want? he can’t bring himself to banish her Daw, 451 pp, $24.95 Edge, 323 pp, $17.95 Set in the underbelly of L.A., Rhodes despite his client’s insistence that it be has written a fast paced Horner-adventure done as quickly as possible. Carey does a Riders of the Storm is a novel of The K. A. Bedford is also the author of the that has vampires, werewolves, serial good job of keeping Felix and the reader Clan Chronicles. acclaimed Eclipse and Hydrogen Steel. killers, and some humans that are even in the dark about what is going on until Cersi is a world inhabited by three While in the future, Spider Webb may worse wallowing in action and gore. This Felix is able to ascertain the truth about sentient races, the Oud, the technology journey to the end of time, he must drift is a horror lovers buffet. Enjoy! - Pam the situation. Felix is also a good com- oriented, the Tikitik , the biologists, and along as a repairer of broken time Allan mentator on his own activities, adding in the Om’ray caught somewhere between machines, and avoiding the antics of his wisecracks to lighten the tension at times. the other two. boss Dickhead McMahon [yes, the The Soldier King In the next book, Vicious Circle, we Ayrl Sarc is gifted with a forbidden character’s real name] All muddle along by Violette Malan pick things back up with Felix a few talent. She can manipulate the M’hir, the until a broken time machine reveals a Daw, 372 pp, $15.00 months later as he is slowly getting back source of clan power, and a dangerous corpse from the future. The Department into working on a regular basis as an place outside the known universe. It of Time and Space steps in. Ex-cop The Soldier King is the third volume exorcist. However, when he is ap- upsets the ages old “agreement” that both Spider is left with a lot of questions that of the Novels of Dhulyn and Parno. proached by a couple to find the ghost of insures peace and locks in the roles of the eventually involve him in a battle for Dhulyn Wolfshead and Parno their deceased daughter, supposedly clans and its members. Aryl and her clan control of time itself. Lionsmane are members of the Merce- “stolen” by another exorcist, Felix once are exiled. Enris Mendolar, a young man Spider is a fascinating and dysfunc- nary Brotherhood. When they find again finds himself caught up in a from another clan joins them. They tional character with a talent for mud- themselves on the winning side of a battle situation with much larger ramifications search for a new home. The ruined dling through. With all the paradoxes they accept the surrender of the enemy than it would have appeared and has to village they find seems to be a haven they spinning new timelines, you can hardly prince Edmir but their employer abro- fight for his life and the soul of the girl to can rebuild. But trouble erupts when the put it down. This is a roller coaster ride gates the Common Rule and takes the prevent the unleashing of a demon into Oud who originally destroyed the village through multiple futures through dark prince prisoner. The partners abandon the world that would be a very bad thing. are still there; just underground - hunting tinted glasses. And who are the Vores, their pay and free the prisoner and begin At the start of the novel, Felix is traces of the ancient Hoveny clan. Then and when are they due? to return him home. But they end up, involved with several apparently uncon- the Tikitik take exception to the Oud - This is a gotta-read, with some along with the prince, pursued by nected events, a murder investigation that saying how the Zona clan Aryl must thoughtful concepts to ponder. - Pam everyone in sight except for the last of a Felix is hired by the police to help out become the Clan Speaker to negotiate Allan slaughtered troop of Players, When the with, a possessed church that Felix is peace, Even if they all survive, their enemy is the Blue Mage, the prince’s asked to consult on, a violent outburst of world will be irrevocably changed. The Gypsy Morph mothers consort, they take the first steps Asmadeus/Rafi along with a surprising Czerneda writes a great fantasy. The by Terry Brooks along a path that may bring Dhulyn’s quiet spell by the demon, and Felix being world building is complex and fascinat- Del Ray, 402 pp, $27.00 powers as a seer forward, or land them all threatened to stay out of a case (he’s not ing, the characters real and draws you in a magical trap. sure which one it is) by loup-garou thugs into the world and its action. Lots of The Gypsy Morph is the beginning of Dhulyn and Parno are delightful from an ex-communicated Vatican twists and a pace that keeps you in your the Genesis of Shannara trilogy. characters and the fast moving plot and enforcement group. During the course of chair. This is an author to collect as well Eighty years in the future, the United subplots hold your interest. Worth adding his investigations, Felix is beaten up as read. If you like Cherryh and Card you States is a wasteland made by chemical to your fantasy library [I’ll be hunting the (including being infected by a the loup- will love this. - Pam Allan warfare, pollution, and plagues. There is first two volumes.] showing all the signs garous because he hadn’t had a recent no government in power. The land is of a fun series. - Pam Allan tetanus shot), booked for suspicion of The Age of the Conglomerates roamed by rogue militias and hideous murder of the girl whose ghost he’s trying by Thomas Nevins mutations spawned by the toxic environ- Immortal to find, does battle against a group of Balantine, 299 pp, $14.00 ment. Against them all stands the de- by Traci L. Slatton Satanists, and feels the wrath of Pen, mons, and their minions bent on destroy- Delta, 513 pp, $14.00 leaving him homeless at the end of the The Age of the Conglomerates is a ing what remains of humanity. novel. He does learn of how it is all debut novel. Against the evil, a few allies of good: Immortal is a remarkable debut. connected and manages to deal with The world has slid into economic Logan Tom, with the magic staff of a Luca Bastardo was a beautiful boy everything, albeit with some cost to him disaster. Social Security has failed and it Knight of the Word, his fellow Knight, thought to be abandoned by noble parents but with a relative satisfying outcome is all the fault of the “discards” the Angel Perez, Kirisin Belleruus, a young at the heart of Florence. Subjected to with the bad guys getting what is coming elderly and disabled or less than physi- elf with magic he doesn’t understand, and unspeakable cruelty, Luca is anything but to them and the ghost being let free from cally perfect. The discards are stripped of Hawk, destiny’s instrument to lead the an ordinary boy. Across the next two what has been binding her. assets and dumped. The conglomerates remainder of humanity to the “promised centuries of intrigue and danger, he I enjoyed both books and am looking control everything and are working to land.” discovers an incredible gift that allows forward to more of the series. You can genetically engineer the children. Gabriel Terry Brook’s epic fantasies have him to embrace healing and alchemy and definitely see some similarities to books Cruz and Christine Salter are Genetic great characters, mystery, and magic. to become a confident of the Medicis, like Jim Butcher’s Dresden files, but it is engineers increasingly troubled by the There is plenty of action to carry the even as he faces persecution from a a good comparison. As Felix’s world is path taken. When Cruz disappears as the reader to the last page. Shannara fans sadistic cabal determined to take his delved into in each book, we learn more Salter Cruz relationship develops, need to get your plastic out. There is an secrets for their own about it, and Carey does give us some Christine’s Grandparents are dumped in epic new series waiting to be read. - Pam But as the plague and the inquisition hints as to some of what’s going on the Arizona desert where a group have Allan wreak havoc on Florence, Luca’s survival behind the scenes that may play out in tried to create a haven. Even in the cold is lies in learning who he is. As he future books. The books also have a good cruel conglomerate world, they can only The Last Angel travels through the Renaissance, from noir element to its narration and the control so much. Salter and Cruz must try by Natasha Rhodes Giotto to Leonardo Da Vinci, he pursues mystery Felix is trying to solve in each to change that control. Solaris, 411 pp, $7.99 the most closely guarded secrets, and book is a complex puzzle that does make This is an often depressing book that pursued by those seeking his destruction, sense when the pieces are all put together. reflects many of the changes seen in The Last Angel continues the series he will influence the path of history. Once you read them, you may start today’s world extrapolated 40 years in the begun with Dante’s Girl. This is spectacular novel with even looking up the new books on future. Though not as well written as I’d An Angel is found murdered on minor characters that involve you, and a Amazon.co.uk instead of waiting for the like, and sometimes bordering on the Sunset Boulevard. To the media it is the complex and exciting search through the US release. - Lee Whiteside polemic, it is a wake-up call. I look biggest story going. To the Hunters, the Renaissance. It is hard for the reader to forward to seeing his further efforts. - anti-monster hit squad it’s a mystery. To put down. This reviewer carried it around Pam Allan Kayla Steele, it is a last chance to bring for every spare moment. This is a novel her murdered fiancé back. To the others it that needs to be in your Library. You is the means to destroy humanity. To stop might want to read it again and again. - them, the hunters must join forces with Pam Allan Page 22 ConNotations Volume 18 Issue 5 both male and female members. Other We welcome both new and experienced PAReX is a non profit organization dedicated activities include null-modem link gamefests, players. to building and promoting Autonomous Club Listings group theater movie viewings, convention 10:00 a.m. Character Creation - We will have robotics. The club has been in existance since ACROSS PLUS - So you live in North trips and more. Have sci-fi fun in a relaxed, a session to create characters for all of the 1998. Meetings are currently conducted twice Phoenix and are interested in anime? Well low-structure environment. NO RUBBER campaigns we run. AGoP will have all books a month at two different Phoenix, Arizona there is a club out there available for you EARS ALLOWED!! For questions, you can available for reference. We encourage you to locations, http://www.parex.org/ people. call the BBS, or write to: LSS c/o R. Martin; purchase the books if you like the game. All meetings.shtml. Club dues are on an annual Across Plus is a social club that discuses 2522 N. Sparkman Blvd.; Tucson, AZ 85716 character materials are provided; character basis: Regular members $20 Student members anime, video games, manga, other animation, sheets, master item logs, adventure records, $15 Of course visitors are always welcome and the Japanese culture. We meet at BASFA Local Tucson science fiction group etc. Dice will be loaned to you if you don’t because we know you will eventually become Bookman’s on 19th Ave and Northern on that puts on TusCon. Contact us at PO Box have any yet. In other words, all that is a member anyway Web page: http:// Sundays at 7:00pm until 9:00pm. 2528, Tucson AZ 85702-2528 or needed for the first day is for you to join www.parex.org/ E-mail Contact: In general, we explore anime, manga, and [email protected] us and have fun. [email protected] other styles of animation, creative educative our website at http://home.earthlink.net/ If you have any questions email us at demonstrations, participate in interactive ~basfa/ [email protected]. THE PHOENIX FANTASY FILM SOCI- discussions, attend local Arizona conventions, ETY A Phoenix based club interest-ed in the and make cosplay. CENTRAL ARIZONA SPECULATIVE THE JEDI KNIGHTS (Founded 1977) entire realm of SF, Fantasy and Horror film. We are willing to gain any new members out FICTION SOCIETY, INC. (CASFS) The Meetings are the 3rd Sunday of each month. PFFS has been in existence for 30 years, there who are interested. Our members are non-profit corporation that puts on For more information call Carol Alves, meeting every 6 weeks in member’s homes. very friendly, respectful, and fun. We CopperCon conventions, SmurfCons, Publicity, (760)244-9593 or write Jedi Dues are $10 per year. Membership includes welcome any and all. HexaCons, occasional regional cons, and Knights, c/o Carol Alves 8038 “I” Street, newsletters, an annual film awards and For more information, contact Shane Bryner publishes Con-Notations. Best described as Hesperia CA, 92345-7066. various outings. For information, contact at [email protected] SF/F generalists with a strong bent towards PFFS, P.O. Box 34023, Phoenix, AZ 85067 or literary SF/F. Guests welcome - meets at 8pm LEPRECON, INC. One of the two Phoenix call David Storck at (602) 274_7404, e-mail: ADRIAN EMPIRE A medieval and renais- on the last Friday of each month in January area corporations that put on yearly conven- [email protected]. sance recreationist club. Sword-fighting, arts, thru September and the second Friday in tions. Best described as SF/F generalists with banquets, masquerades, dances. meets every October, November and December at JB’s a main thrust into SF/F art. Guests are RAGE ACROSS THE SOUTHWEST A Wednesday night from 7-10pm at Encanto Restaurant, 1818 W Montebello in Phoenix, welcome. The meetings are quarterly on the Live Action Theatre Troupe based out of the Park. All are welcome. Free. AZ. For information: write PO Box 62613, second Saturday of February, May, August & ASU campus in Tempe, AZ. It is dedicated to Phoenix, AZ 85082-2613 or email November unless otherwise notified. August the game Werewolf: The Apocalypse by AERIAL MIRAGE JUGGLERS. Meets [email protected] Web www.casfs.org is the annual meeting where board positions White Wolf publishing. Contact Mike Wednesday 7-10pm in Encanto Park, 15th are deter-mined. For more information, write McLaughlin at (602)461-5842 or write 1730 Avenue, south of Encanto. No dues, everyone *****C.R.O.F.T. Celtic Reenactment of PO Box 26665, Tempe, AZ 85285; call Mike W Emelita Place #2025, Mesa AZ 85202- welcome. All levels skill exchange in many Fellowship and Trades is Phoenix based Willmoth, 480-945-6890, Email 3144 or [email protected] areas of object manipulation Dave Davis Reenactment group specializing in the [email protected] Webpage: , 602-955-9446; western European renaissance. We research www.leprecon.org RAW GAMES (Role-players & or Ron Harvey , 480- lifestyles and trades concurrent with the Wargamers, Inc.) Role-players & 775-4690 for more info or impromptu Celtic Peoples from 400 BC until 1746 AD. MIB The Men in Black is the official global Wargamers, Inc. is the Valley’s oldest role- juggling sessions. We emphasize Scots, Irish or Welsh crafts and organization of field operatives for Steve playing and wargaming club. Currently do Celtic re-enactment. We open participation Jackson Games. We attend local conventions meeting at 8159 W. Weldon in Phoenix every ARIZONA LANBASHERS LEAGUE A to anyone with an interest in period crafting to demonstrate and promote products of Steve Sunday from 12noon-5pm (except during collaboration of computer gaming enthusiasts, and entertainment. Demonstrations occur at Jackson Games. We also schedule demos in conventions and other special events). Open the Arizona LANbashers League throws the Highland Games, Scarborough Fair, and local gaming stores as well as community to new members - call (623) 849-9515. quarterly LANparty events. Between parties, the Arizona Renaissance Festival. Web page service events. If you have a gaming store, support is given to local groups who wish to http://www.crofters.org We meet in Tempe at convention, or community service that you SHIELD OF ALMOR The Shield of Almor advertise their own gatherings. We have no the Pyle Adult Center SW corner of Rural and would like to have official Steve Jackson is a RPGA club located in the greater Phoenix set genre of games and play anything from Southern on the 2nd Saturday of every month, Games representation at, please contact the area. If you are interested in Living Greyhawk strategy games to first-person shooters to phone number (480)350-5211. The Board MIB Arizona Cell catch one of our meetings the 1st Sunday of driving/flying simulations. No annual meeting will be at 2:00 pm with the General Leader at [email protected]. We are also every month at Imperial Outpost Games membership is required and admission to an meeting starting at 2:30 pm. recruiting new MIBs in some areas of (www.imperialoutpost.com) in Glendale. If event ranges from $5-$15. See our webpage Arizona. If you’re interested, contact us. You you are interested in Living Arcanis or Living for current events. Email: THE DARK ONES (Dark-wunz) n. 1) An can find additional information about the Spycraft catch us on the 3rd Sunday of every [email protected] Web: organization formed for the expression and Arizona MIB at our website http:// month also at Imperial Outpost Games. The www.lanparty.com/all/ VoiceMail: 602-306- exploration of various cultural themes members.cox.net/mib.6361/ Shield of Almor hosts RPGA events at the 9339 including, but not limited to, the Dark Ages local Phoenix conventions. For more MVD GHOSTCHASERS ARIZONA PARANORMAL and the Renaissance through forms of art —The MVD information visit us at including, but not limited to, painting, Ghostchasers are a paranormal team games.groups.yahoo.com/group/AZ_RPG/ or INVESTIGATIONS We are a highly drawing, writing, photography, spoken word, established in 1995. This band of ghost you can sign up for games at trained, non-profit paranormal investigation and acts of characterization. 2) a member of hunters conducts regular investigations of www.nyrond.org. Or you can just stop by the group, registered with the state of Arizona, this organization. 3) Information available at haunted, historical locations throughout 1st Sunday of the month. Meeting starts at providing service to Arizona and the www.darkones.org Arizona. They also research and investigate 10am. Hope to see you there. Southwest since 1994. Having served the “house call” hauntings for the public. The public for 12 years, we are one of the oldest, THE EMPIRE OF CHIVALRY AND MVD Ghostchasers lead Spirit Photo THE SOCIETY FOR CREATIVE most respected paranormal investigation STEEL, INC. The Empire of Chivalry and Workshops/Tours to various haunted locations ANACHRONISM The kingdom of Atenveldt groups in Arizona. We are primarily science Steel specializes in the general recreation of across Arizona. These workshops give ghost doth lie in the state of Arizona. Within the fair based and don’t go on an investigation the culture of the Middle Ages including all of hunters, paranormal team members and folks kingdom can be found six Baronies: looking for ghosts, we go looking for the Art Forms, Events (Feasts, Tournaments, wanting to learn the art of ghost hunting a Atenveldt, Mons Tonitrus, Twin Moons, answers. There is never a charge for an Ceremonies and Wars) and Combat Arts chance to work and learn techniques together. SunDragon, Tir Ysgithr and Ered Sul. For investigation. Contact us at by e-mail at covering the years of 800AD up to 1650AD The MVD Ghostchasers team are guest more information on any of these or for [email protected] or and any location within Europe or its explored speakers at many venues and have appeared general information on contact the Kingdom visit our website at: http:// territories. For more information contact on TV news reports and the subject of several Seneschal. Email: [email protected] www.arizonaparanormalinvestigations.com/ Leonard Byrd (Tucson) (520)742-2432 Web: newspaper stories. For more information Web www.atenveldt.com www.galandor.org contact: THE AWAY TEAM: The Away Team, is a MVD Ghostchasers—Debe Branning, SOUTHWEST COSTUMER’S GUILD The general sci-fi appreciation group that meets A GATHERING OF PLAYERS-Find Your Director—480-969-4049 Web page: Southwest Costumers Guild is a loose once a month for discussion of various sci-fi Adventure www.mvdghostchasers.com or organization of persons interested in all facets news regarding several mediums to include: Our club is running into our fourth year. Join [email protected] of historical, cultural, science fiction, fantasy, television, movies, video, books, comics, us for games and adventure set in the and humor costume. Members are often seen magazines, collecting, and so forth. The Dungeons and Dragons realm. We offer ORANGE COUNTY SCIENCE FICTION on stage and behind the scenes at local and meetings are comprised of news, review and Living Greyhawk and Xen’drik Expeditions. CLUB meets last Wednesday of every month regional Science Fiction Convention comment, BBS/computer news and help, Visit http://www.warhorn.net/gathering, to see (except Dec.) in Fullerton. The meetings are masquerades. They meet on the last Sunday of meeting new members, video presentations, what we have coming up. built around guest speakers. We’ve had each month at various members’ homes in the games, and socializing fun! Food and drinks We will have character creation sessions to authors such as Octavia Butler and Greg greater Phoenix area. For details. Southwest are provided, via a $3 munchie fee (per get you started and answer all questions. Our Benford. Non-members are welcome. For Costumers Guild, PO Box 39504, Phoenix, meeting) to compensate the host. (No other group has been together, and growing, for details of current events and location see our AZ 85609 or Randall Whitlock at fees are involved.) The electronic home of the four years. We’re a good group of friends that website www.ocsfc.org or email [email protected] or Away Team, is the Lightspeed Space Station believe in gaming fun first. Our member [email protected] www.southwestcostumersguild.org BBS at (520) 325-6674.... Member ages for group’s ages range from 13 to 49. the group range from 13-40-something with ( Continued on page 24 ) Volume 18 Issue 5 ConNotations Page 23 Club Listings TUCSON FAN ALLIANCE E-Mail Address CASFS Business Report ( Continued from page 23 ) is [email protected] or Convention [email protected] SPACE ACCESS SOCIETY Space Access July and August Meetings Society’s sole purpose is to promote radically UNITED FEDERATION OF PHOENIX A Listings cheaper access to space, ASAP. We think it’s Phoenix area Star Trek and general SciFi fan CopperCon 28 Ready with finances still possible within ten years, with a little luck WORLD FANTASY CONVENTION club. We are a social club that meets every not meeting goals. Convention to be held and a lot of hard work. Join us and help us 2008 (Oct 30-Nov 3 ’08) Calgary, two weeks at various locations around the make it happen! SAS membership is $30 for Labor Day Weekend. Phoenix area. The UFP has been meeting for Alberta, Canada. Info: website: one year, which gets you emailed Space CopperCon 29 Cancelled due to over 30 years of continuous activity. Dues are www.worldfantasy.org Access Updates the instant they pass final $15/per year prorated when you join; no financing and problems with moving of edit, plus discounts on our annual conference restrictions. Membership includes member- date. on the technology, politics, and business of TUSCON (Nov 7-9, 2008) Inn Suites ship roster and monthly newsletter. Come to CopperCon 30 in 2010 will go ahead on radically cheaper space transportation, Tucson AZ any two meetings at no obligation. For Hotel, Authors, Artists, featuring leading players in the field. Email the usual date. To improve finances we information, write the UFP at PO Box 37224, Dealer Room, Video Room, Gaming, us at: [email protected] will consolidate bank accounts and close Phoenix, AZ 85069, or call Jim Strait at (602) Panels, Readings, Art Show, Anime Web page: www.space-access.org/ the merchant account. This should leave 242-9203. Web page: http://www.U-F-P.org Room and much more. Guests Diana or Email to [email protected] us sufficient seed money for CopperCon. SUPERSTITION SPACEMODELING Gabaldon Location Inn Suites Hotel, 475 SOCIETY is Arizona’s club for builders of Mark Boniece is Chairman. USS STORMBRINGER The Stormbringer is N Granada, Tucson (520)622-3000. Rates model and high-power rockets and those who Mark Boniece must have the CASFS a correspondence Star Trek fan club chapter $ Room block expires Oct 6. Membership love to see them fly. Launches are held on the of Starfleet, Intl. based out of Tucson AZ. sheds off of his property as he must second Saturday morning of each month in $45. For more info http:// The chapter was commissioned as the USS move. Sheds to be sold to Nola Jennings Rainbow Valley. SSS hosts the annual G. home.earthlink.net/basfa Stormbringer NCC-74213, attached to with leaseback of one for CASFS Harry Stine Memorial Rocket Launch every Division 31, Starfleet Covert Operations, on October. Visit www.sssrocketry.org for materials only. Shed agreement with 10/31/98. As of 11/29/98 there were 32 PHOENIX COMICON (January 23-25, membership information, directions to the LepreCon is terminated and LepreCon members. There are no dues other than the 2009) Mesa Convention Center Mesa AZ launches and meetings, and to read the must store its share of Art Flats and other $15 for joining Star-fleet Intl.. Members are Expanding our show to a full THREE monthly newsletter, “Newton’s Minutes.” materials. Future Cooperation on use of scattered world wide but the primary clusters days (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) with are in Tucson, AZ and Plano, TX. They don’t TARDIS is a Phoenix-based General SF/ equipment is doubtful. meet on a regular basis since they are a a Thursday Preview Night. This means Fantasy Fan Club, specializing in Interna- Book discussions went forward at The correspondence chapter. Their web site is: more parties, dances, and events than tional media SF/Fantasy since 1983. TARDIS http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Vault/9505/ Bent Cover with discussions in July of meets every two weeks at different locations ever before. Guests include Gil Gerard, and their contact/CO is Capt. Dave Pitts, Slan by A.E. Van Vogt and in August around the valley. Activities include watching Erin Gray, Marina Sirtis, Wil Wheaton, [email protected] Storm Front by Jim Butcher. The Septem- videos, discussions, parties, games, and Kevin J Anderson and many more. Events occasional outings with more to come now ber Book is Watchman with October Z-PHILES are the ariZona x-PHILES. We include Art Auction, Masquerade, that Doctor Who is returning from hiatus. being unknown to the Secretary. maintain a mailing list for news and get- Zombie Beauty Contest, Film Festival Many members maintain an active presence at togethers of fans of the X-Files living in AraMark is being investigated as a conventions. You can contact us at 2243 W Best Western Mezona Inn, 250 West Arizona. We get together in both the Phoenix means of raising funds for CASFS. The Wagon Wheel Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85021, Voice Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85201 is the host and Tucson areas. To subscribe, send an organization uses volunteers from groups Mail at (602) 864-0901, E-mail TARDIS- hotel for the Phoenix Comicon. All empty message to z-philes- to staff concessions at local events and [email protected] or visit us at http:// [email protected] attendees booking rooms at the Best donates money to the groups based on members.cox.net/tardisaz/tardis.html Western Mezona Inn using our group volunteer hours. WESTERN SCIENCE FICTION ASSO- code will receive our hotel incentives, TEKWAR FAN CLUB Sanctioned by the CIATION (WesternSFA) A non-profit The Arizona Book Festival has been including Fast Pass, separate registration series’ production companies and the USA corporation that sponsors AniZona, the permanently cancelled. The Arizona line, and more (details coming soon). Network! It is THE information conduit ConRunners seminars, Across Plus Anime Humanities Council has lost interest in between the fans and the series! Fan club Club and sponsored the 2004 Westercon. Rates are $109.99 Single or Double holding the event. membership will bring you the following 1) Dedicated primarily to educational activities occupancy, $119.99 Triple occupancy, ConNotations printed and distributed as subscription to the info filled Tek Informer relating to literature, music, and visual and $129.99 Quadruple occupancy Make newsletter; 2) official TekWar Fan Club performing arts, especially in the genres of scheduled. The next Staff meeting is 7 your reservations by calling 800-528- membership card and kit. Membership is by Anime, science fiction, fantasy, costuming, p.m. Oct. 7 at The Bent Cover. regular mail only and the newsletter and gaming and science. Applicants for member- 8299 and asking for the Phoenix materials will not be reproduced electroni- ship in WesternSFA must be sponsored by a Comicon rate. Kids 12 years and younger cally. To join the action and initiate your current active WesternSFA member. Dues are now get in for free with a paid adult annual membership, make check or money $10 yearly plus a $5 non-refundable applica- order out for $12.50 to: Official TekWar Fan tion fee. General Meetings are held on the membership. To register or for more Club (Membership section), 2522 N first Friday of February, May, August and information go to the web site at Sparkman Blvd., Tucson AZ 85716-2417 November, check our website for meeting www.phoenixcomicon.com location Guests are welcome. For more info T.H.E.M. is ASU’s science fiction and contact Craig Dyer at WesternSFA, PO Box ANIZONA 2009 fantasy club. Weekly meetings are held on the 67457, Phoenix AZ 85082 Email: (April 10-12, 2009) What is CASFS? Arizona State University campus, with dates [email protected] Webpage: Embassy Suites Paradise Valley/ What is really behind putting on a and places to be announced after the semester www.westernsfa.org Scottsdale, Phoenix, AZ. Guests Richard convention? What are the funds raised by starts. For more information, Email Epcar, Ellyn Stern, Trish Ledoux, Toshi a convention used for? Why not attend a [email protected] Web Yoshida, Sam Regal, David Vincent, meeting and find out? We’re the sponsor www.themonline.org Toybox. Karaoke, Cosplay, game room, of ConNotations, CopperCons, Hexa- Cons, SmerfCons and other conventions. viewing room, panels, dance, Artist Alley Generic Convention Registration Form We are a charitable, non-profit organiza- and much more. Memberships $40 thru tion that exists to further science fiction, 03/31/2009. MEMBERSHIP CAPPED fantasy and science fields in Arizona. Name:______AT 1000. For more info - CASFS currently meets at the JB’s www.anizona.org or [email protected] Restaurant at 1818 W Montebello in Badge Name:______Phoenix The meetings begin at 8PM and COPPERCON 29 — CANCELED - are held on the last Friday of the month Address:______Jan. through Sept. and on the second CopperCon will return bigger and better City/State/ZIP:______Friday of the month Oct through Dec. in 2010 - check our web site Everyone is invited to attend two Phone:______Email:______www.coppercon.org for updates and meetings as a guest (non-member). specials Membership rates are $12/year plus an Enclosed is $______for ______memberships for initial $3 application fee and rates are ______convention. pro-rated for the amount of the year remaining. For more info: Webpage: (See individual convention listing for mailing address) www.casfs.org Email: [email protected] More info on __ Masquerade __Art Show __Volunteer __ Other

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