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Artist, Heather Oliver             

The Superhero Issue

I sent notes to 27 authors I wanted as contributors to my projected anthology. I expected long silences, because of the holidays. Six days later, 17 of them want to participate.

It’s premature to mention names, because I know we will have the usual attrition. Let’s just say that everyone who reads SF will recognize them. But I will share my framing criteria:

— Space opera(ish) and/or mythic, but it must be science fiction, not fantasy;
— Female protagonist(s) who do not (nor are made to) feel guilty about career versus family;
— Content and style geared to adult readers, not young-adult “finding one’s self/place”;
— No “big ideas” Leaden Age SF, nor near-future earthbound cyber/steampunk.

It is my fond hope that having an offbeat editor will shake something unusual out of these frames.

I can hardly wait.

Update: The final starting roster stands at 22.

Photo: Foléghandhros (one of the Cyclades), by RALF.

10 Responses to “The Superhero Issue”

  1. Asakiyume says:

    Cool! Sounds like it will be excellent!

  2. Athena says:

    I will do my bestest! I also plan illustrations and have the artist lined up.

  3. intrigued_scribe says:

    Though I commented on this elsewhere, the anthology certainly does sound terrific!

  4. Athena says:

    It will be a lot of work, but definitely worth it!

  5. Rose says:

    Awesome – I’m looking forward.

  6. Athena says:

    We’ll have to cross many seas but I will give it my best.

  7. r0ck3tsci3ntist says:

    I can’t wait either!

  8. Athena says:

    Like all ventures of this kind, the prospect is scary but also exhilarating!

  9. Susan says:

    I like those criteria a lot, Athena! Best of luck with the anthology and I’ll check back to see when it comes out.

  10. Athena says:

    I thought you might! *smile*