Poll: favorite fantasy author
Current mood: chipper

So -- if you're reading this you like fantasy.

Who is your favorite fantasy author/series?  Why? 

What makes it special for you?  How does it transport you?

The only purpose of this blog entry is to get your feedback.  And I'll post mine in a future blog.

JScott

6:39 PM - 13 Comments - 18 Kudos - Add Comment

Are Books Dying?
Current mood: contemplative

It is no secret that overall book sales for publishers and book sellers haven't been great -- which is tough news for a guy trying to find a publisher!  Publishers are consolidating, and working hard to determine what sells.

Some reports say books are "old media" because they're on paper.  They say everyone wants to spend all their time on the internet, viewing videos, listening to MP3's, and watching DVD's on their tv.  There is no time for reading!

Certainly, those new media things are interesting and take more of our time.  But I think the problem with such reports is that they don't discuss the "why's" people might be spending more time with some media than others.

Reading a book is a solitary experience (unless you sit up with a loved one and read a book together -- which can be great fun!)  Playing a computer or online game, watching a video, chatting online with a friend or listening to music often have the feeling of interaction with someone else.  You aren't alone, because you physically see them, or hear them, or interact with them.

That's great -- but I think most of us like to read books.  If we aren't reading as much as we used to, I think we secretly "wish" we did.  And I think that we love what is great about fantasy books -- the new worlds, the excitement and danger, the sense of quest and mystery, and the fulfillment of destiny.

Reading may be somewhat solitary, but the experience of a fantasy world in print doesn't need to be.  That's why I've set up my website and this myspace site -- to interact with people who love fantasy and would like to help see my book in print.

I hope you'll check out my writing -- and then interact with me here or through email on my site.  Tell me what you like about my stuff.  Tell me what you don't like. Share what you found interesting about the characters -- or maybe didn't so much.  Tell me about your own writing -- or other series that you've enjoyed.

Life is what we make it -- and interactions with others is the same. 

I look forward to getting to know you! 

3:19 PM - 11 Comments - 7 Kudos - Add Comment