The Fall of the Apprentice – A Compare and Contrast

Reading Charles Edward Pogue’s novelization of Dragonheart* – for which he also wrote the screenplay – I was struck again by an idea that had flitted through my mind on a previous occasion. This is the difference between the corruption of Einon, the prince in the film* and the novel Dragonheart, and the fall of …

The Pale Moose

Well, this certainly isn’t a sight you see every day, readers. And lucky me, this news happens to thematically fit the Christmas season! Click the link to learn more: Incredible white moose spotted in the Swedish woods By Nick 19 March, 2021 An incredible never-seen-before white moose has been spotted in the Sweden. The stunning creature …

The Birth of the Modern Rocket

Check out this fantastic piece from Popular Mechanics, readers! Shooting at the Moon: The Pioneering Rocketry of Robert Goddard In 1929, Popular Mechanics covered the explosive work of Robert Goddard. His liquid propellant-fueled rocket, the first of its kind, carved a path to the stars. BY JOHN BRADY MAR 16, 2021 In the December 1929 issue, …

Compare and Contrast: Manga vs. American Comics

American comics are largely in the tank – with a few notable exceptions such as these items here*, here*, here,* and here*. Manga is making a killing in the market because of this, outselling American comics by the veritable ton. Given the Japanese writers’ commitment to storycraft, that’s not surprising. Does this mean the comic …

Writerly Sound Bites, Number 5: Character Progression – Which Archetype Are You Using?

Last week we discussed “shock and awe” events in three popular serials. These events were supposedly meant for character development, but they only succeed in destroying said characters, along with the canon and continuity of the franchise. However, one has to wonder just why the actions forced on the characters mentioned in the previous post …

Spiritual Vigilance

The Advent season is upon us, readers! Good Lord, is the year almost over already? It’s been so busy behind the scenes here that it is hard to believe we have all come this far so fast! As we begin this period of waiting for the coming of the Lord on December 25, this reflection …

A Song of Hope

Be it ever so grand. Click the link to see more, readers: Nightbirde’s insight on everyday miracles is a must-read Nightbirde | Facebook | Fair Use Cerith Gardiner - published on 11/15/21 The singer continues to inspire with her thought-provoking writings. When Nightbirde first appeared on America’s Got Talent, she captured our hearts not only …

Music from 86 – Eighty-Six

One is always happy to find a new show to enjoy, of course, readers. But discovering some new music you cannot help but rock to when the show plays? That’s the metaphorical jackpot! If you’ve been keeping up with my newsletter, then you have seen my opinion of Asato Asato’s 86 – Eighty-Six* series. At …

Bulletin: Planetary Anthology Sale!

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, readers, so that means Black Friday is right around the corner as well. In light of that, Tuscany Bay Books is having a sale on all eleven volumes of the Planetary Anthology Series! From Thanksgiving Day through the weekend, you can buy the entire ebook collection for around $10. What a bargain! …

Fantastic On-the-Job Discovery

It would be cool to go to work and find something of archaeological significance but not everyone is that fortunate. Although such discoveries are reported with some degree of frequency, the items uncovered are not always the type to grab headlines. A cable crew in Spain, however, was lucky enough to unearth a treasure trove …