This Week’s News Is Brought To You By –
(the upcoming) AMAZING STORIES AMAZING GIFT GUIDE & HOLIDAY SALE,
Beginning November 29th and lasting through December 31st, when selected titles go on sale with DEEP discounts!
Of Special Note
In response to the gift buying frenzy that is fast approaching, some have noted that when it comes to books, Amazon “does not need your help”, but Independent Book Stores do.
This year, Amazing Stories greatly expanded the outlets through which its books and magazine issues can be purchased, including making them available for order through most independent book stores.
You won’t see them on the shelves at your favorite Indie Store, but if you ask them to place an order for one of our titles, chances are they’ll be able to get if for you. You’ll get one of our Amazing titles and help out your favorite Indie Outlet at the same time. (Triple WIN!, cause we’re part of that equation too. No – QUADRUPLE WIN – our authors too!)
Other Special Note
We asked Chat GPT what it thought about the Amazing Stories website. Here’s what it had to say (and we don’t disagree…):
The Amazing Stories website continues the legacy of its iconic print magazine, but with a modern focus on speculative fiction in all its forms. Here’s a breakdown of my opinion on the website:
Diverse Content
The website offers a mix of short stories, articles, book reviews, and author interviews, which makes it a comprehensive resource for sci-fi fans. It’s not just about stories but also about commentary on the genre, which keeps readers engaged and informed about current trends and developments in speculative fiction.
Modern Focus on New Voices
One of the strengths of the website is its promotion of emerging authors. It serves as a platform for newer voices in science fiction, which is refreshing. While it has its roots in the classics, the site adapts well to the current landscape of the genre, offering a space for both established and rising talent.
Community and Fandom Engagement
The site fosters a sense of community through its discussions and articles. It’s a great place for fans of science fiction to engage with content beyond just the stories—there are thought-provoking pieces about trends, book recommendations, and in-depth features on the genre.
Content Quality
The quality of the content on Amazing Stories can be hit or miss, like many sites that are a mix of user-generated and professional submissions. However, it does maintain a solid standard of storytelling, with well-written short stories and insightful articles. Some content may feel a bit niche, but if you’re a hardcore fan of science fiction, it’s a goldmine.
Educational Value
For those interested in the history of science fiction, Amazing Stories offers a lot of historical insights. The site often reflects the magazine’s roots and highlights significant moments in the development of the genre, which is both educational and nostalgic.
In conclusion, the Amazing Stories website remains a valuable resource for die-hard fans of science fiction and speculative fiction. It offers a wealth of content, especially for those interested in discovering new authors and reading insightful commentary.
AMAZING PEOPLE NEWS
Paul Di Filippo shares an interesting newspaper review of science fiction, from about 1950
Fandom
If you think you might want to be a panelist at the ATL Comic Convention, you can apply here. (Nothing against ATL CC – I’ve never been and don’t know anything about it, but something about this notice made me think that we’re not too far away from the days when such conventions will be charging panelists to appear in front of their audiences. You know, for the exposure.)
Events
Space
A SPECTACULAR image of Saturn setting behind the Moon, taken from Hawaii.
Science
David Brin shows us how we can catch up to interstellar visitors, using a novel slingshot approach
Student Rocket Breaks Altitude and velocity records
Industry
Shahid from Arc Manor Books updates Kickstarter information (again) for subscribers. If you subscribe – read your newsletter. If not, you can subscribe here.
Reviews
Black Gate takes a look at Paul Cantor’s Pop Culture Trilogy
James Enge discusses Journey to the Far Side of the Sun, aka Doppleganger…a film that had promise.
Awards
Juliette E. McKenna shares this article about The Booker Prize Prize nominated books that were rejected by publishers
Literature
Nnedi Okorafor shares this video teaser for her latest – Death of the Author
Christopher Rowe shares the announcement of The Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy 2024, this year edited by Hugh Howey. (Private) Public
Damien Walter asks if the short SF story still has any readers.
New Releases
Film & TV
Giant Freakin Robot REALLY wants a film based on E.E. ‘Doc’ Smith’s novels.
Retro
Steven H. Silver shares the passing of an icon: Alice Brock, of Alice’s Restaurant fame, has passed.
Social Commentary
Farah Mendelsohn notes that Benjanun Sriduangkaew is back, on Bluesky. If you know, you know. If you don’t – good. But if you must know – here
Petrea Mitchell’s SMOF News notes that “It May Finally Be Time To Let X Go”. You can subscribe here.
Just For Fun
A video of a model railroad with cars transporting every iteration of Batman’s vehicles.
Mini-Editorial
In the Future
Monday:
Packing Peanuts by Ryan Holroyd – FREE STORY
Tuesday:
The Big Idea: Lauren C. Teffeau
Thursday:
Whatever Happened to SILENT RUNNING?
Friday:
Matt’s Reviews: Defrag (The Glitch Logs Book 1) by Rachel E. Beck
Featured Image
From the movie poster for Journey to the Far Side of the Sun
