Mainstreaming science fiction?

John Scalzi on science fiction outreach. Star Wars may basically be fantasy with a crunchy SF shell, but I’m pretty sure we have quite a few CJers who read the hard stuff.

I’m pretty much a fantasy reader, mainly because I enjoy books that are more character-oriented and I haven’t had much luck finding that in pure science fiction. As readers, what are your thoughts? Are there any contemporary authors who are writing SF for the masses?

Merry Freaking Life Day

It’s that time of year again – when the fanboys fancy turns towards the Star Wars Holiday Special. Mock ye well, merry gentlefolk! Here’s some links to get you in the spirit:

Only three days left to enter our Nativity Contest!

From the blogside

Imadra_blue rants on fandom perceptions of Anakin and Mace.

Lazypadawan isn’t fond of the theory that the Sith created Anakin.

Jaded_skys defends Padme, and Cadesama posted notes on the Padme/Anakin pairing.

An essay by Abel G. Peña is being published as part of an e-book.

Also on blogs.starwars.com, Paul ponders who else was being held on the Death Star’s detention level, Pablo calls out Fox News for not doing their homework and Bonnie finds Indiana Jones mash-ups.

I am indebted to the fine folks at Jedi News from linking to some of the Livejournal posts.