Welcome

Editor's Notes

Current

December 1, 1999

Introducing the Book Nook

Perhaps I'm naive, or perhaps I'm generalizing where I shouldn't, but I like to think that fans of science fiction television prefer series in general that engage their minds--ones requiring more attention than the average soap opera or sitcom. We enjoy being made to think a little while we watch, to imagine entirely new worlds, cultures, and beings, and to find ways to relate to fantastical situations.

Don't get me wrong, though. We also enjoy good special effects extravaganzas--fast-paced, action-oriented, eye-candy--on occasion. There are certainly fans of "sci fi" for whom this is the main draw. For myself, however, even the world's most amazing effects and wizardry won't keep me coming back week after week (or drive me to develop a fan web site!) if a series does not also give me well-rounded characters and interesting, challenging storylines.

So, what's the point of this discussion, since obviously Stargate SG-1 fits my definition of a great television series? Well, at the risk of generalizing again, I believe that many folks who enjoy science fiction television also tend to be pretty avid readers.

Thus, I am introducing a new section of the Editor's Notes: The Book Nook. At the end of each Note, I will suggest some reading material for those other fans out there who like to give their craniums a workout. (I will also accept suggestions for other books or stories, so if you've got a favorite, drop me a line!)

-- Meli

The Book Nook

Equinoctial by John Varley (December 1999)

Ever wondered why anyone who wasn't dying would choose to become Tok'ra? This story, included in the Picnic on Nearside novel, gives an interesting perspective on what it might be like to join with an alien creature in a symbiotic relationship.

Out of Print / ISBN 000000000
Hellspark by Janet Kagan (December 1999)

Ah, my favorite novel, which just happens to be a terrific story of first contact and the process of deciphering an alien language that fans of SG-1 may also love. I've probably read it a dozen times, and I still enjoy every word.

Meisha Merlin Publishing / ISBN 0965834522