Common Themes

One of the ways I spend my time is by devouring books whole reading science fiction (and fantasy.) I’ve always leaned toward the space opera camp in sci-fi, and although I’m not finished with it yet (at over 900 pages, I’m sure you’ll forgive me), I can heartily recommend The Space Opera Renaissance, edited by David G. Hartwell and Kathryn Cramer. This book is a blow-by-blow survey of the development of space opera, what it meant when it started (not what you’d think!), what it means now, and the best examples of every era. What I find unique is that it also includes a few parodies of the sub-genre, like Clive Jackson’s The Swordsmen of Varnis (the ending lives on as a visual gag in Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark), commentary on what these authors were going for, and in some cases, how the parody caused a resurgence of interest in space opera.

Stories range from a few pages to over 100 pages in length, and the book offers a broad spectrum of authors, from forefathers of science fiction to present-day greats. It’s a great way to dabble in the sub-genre, and find new authors to read. (There’s also a lovely hardcover edition, if you’re interested.)

These notecards are tremendous. Would love some.

New art in an old style, via Etsy:

John W. Golden’s rendition of Golden Age Sci-fi Rocket Tin Toy box art. This is a reproduction of a digital image created by John W. Golden.

“I didn’t want to reproduce actual artwork or use an actual tin toy robot as the basis, because I wanted the freedom to interpret this my way. The series has been a lot of fun, because I had to come up with a fictional toy company, fictional robots, etc.”

Image is 8″x 12″, unmatted, and is reproduced on Enhanced Matte Paper using Archival inks.

Another Tor.com FREE wallpaper; I chose to feature another one this week because, well, I _REMEMBER_ this edition of OMNI Magazine and I always liked the art. As of Friday May 30 it is no longer available for download; click here for a zip of all sizes (1.25 Mb.)

About the artwork:

Gregory Manchess’ painting for Omni Magazine, from the 1980’s. See more from this artist at http://manchess.com

For the past few months, Tor.com (publisher of fine fantasy and science fiction books) has been promoting their upcoming website redesign by releasing weekly FREE e-books by their authors, and FREE wallpapers featuring art both old and new. (Sizes range from iPhone to enormo-vision!)

This wallpaper is no longer available, so here’s a zip file of all sizes for your downloading pleasure (3.64 Mb).

About the artwork:

Jeff Jones’ cover art for Amazing Science Fiction magazine, September 1970. See more from this artist at http://www.ulster.net/~jonesart

This is one of the most fantastic LEGO models I’ve seen. The Discovery is featured in the films 2001: A Space Odyssey and 2010: The Year We Make Contact, and this model is rendered in meticulous LEGO detail. A real visual treat!