Year of the Comet

Hi guys.

This is yet another manifestation of the first two chapters of my novel (tentatively titled Year of the Comet). Some of you have seen other versions of this. Help me with the usual stuff—what’s working, what’s not, voice, characterization. All that good stuff. I’m just throwing it out there. Offer whatever comments you are moved to provide.

Thanks so much!

Riley

P.S. Actual text is attached in an email. Let me know if you didn't get it. Thanks!

Pet Stores: WHAT! Kermit's Swamp Years

Yes, that's right, gang. I found a movie for Bill, Andy, and well, Dave likes everything that is kid related and it has MUPPETS. Kermit's Swamp Years, (click for overview of the plot) features a young Kermit who gets captured, put into a pet shop, purchased by a high school teacher to dissect for anatomy class, and well, hi-jinks ensue. Cue talking dog, and a pet store featuring tons of reptiles. Really, Bill, this DVD would maybe fuel your thoughts on voice in your story. My kids loved it when they were younger, and I actually didn't mind sitting through it either. I thought of it both times during Bill and Andy's selections. Also, unlike the regular Muppet movies, the animals can't talk to humans... It is billed as "The prequel to The Muppet Movie".  You can also click the image for a larger view!

BADASS - Ben Thompson

BADASS - A relentless onslaught of the toughest warlords, vikings, samurai, pirates, gunfighters, and military commanders to ever live!

Here is a funny non-fiction book about BADASSES!  It is hilarious and strange.  Strange in that the writer uses unusually opinionated adjectives such as "urine inducing" (read menacing), "asshat" (read unpleasant fellow), and of course our current favorite from the section on Anne Bonny:

"Calico Jack was more renowned for his flamboyant wardrobe and inherant personal charm than he was for his tireless sword arm and his ability to turn British merchentmen into giant flaming infernos, but Anne seized the opportunity to set sail for awesomeness." 

It is not your traditional "Heroes of the World" type read from the non-fiction shelf, this book is just flat out full of badasses, hence the title.  Lots of comic-type illustrations and the like. Check it out! (Bought it thinking of you and your story Dave...)