Con-Verse: Welcome
What better place to start this blog, then, by trying to ask and answer the one question that comes up often from people outside the space: what is a “speculative” poem?
Fantastic Fiction: Perry Rhodan
One of the most interesting phenomena to emerge from the German-language speculative fiction universe is the internationally popular Perry Rhodan space opera series. Created in 1961 by Walter Ernsting and Karl-Herbert Scheer, this ongoing saga of a spaceman continues into the present day, in much the same manner as Doctor Who in the Anglophone world.
Local Flavor: Dick’s Drive-In
In Seattle, “Eat a bag of Dick’s” isn’t an insult—it’s a helpful suggestion for how to end a fun night of bar hopping, or make it to your next appointment when you don’t really have time to stop for lunch.
Fantastic Fiction: Nathalie Henneberg’s Forays into the Strange
The Russian-born French author Nathalie Henneberg collaborated with her husband Charles for years on works of fantasy and science fiction, but after his death in 1959, Nathalie continued to write and make a name for herself. Her 1960 story, “The Blind Pilot,” included in David G. Hartwell’s wide-ranging anthology The World Treasury of Science Fiction, is a prime example of the author’s extraordinary prose.
Around Seattle: Ada’s Technical Books
Seattle’s geekiest bookstore is so much more than a place to buy books.
Fantastic Fiction: Revivals
Depressed because your favorite genre has vanished from the shelves? There is room for hope… as long as you are patient.
Local Flavor: Aplets & Cotlets
Bane of children but a delight to adults, Aplets & Cotlets are a Washington state original and often feature in corporate holiday gift baskets in the area. Originally sold at roadside stands, the treats gained slightly wider popularity as a result of the 1962 World’s Fair in Seattle.
Fantastic Fiction: A Paranormal Alternative
In 1961, Clifford Simak published his sixth novel, Time is the Simplest Thing. When mankind reaches for space and misses, humans instead discover within themselves a paranormal alternative to the science that failed them. But when left to contend with the implications of that alternative, it leaves their society a frightened, stratified mirror of our own.
Around Seattle: Archie McPhee
Explore Archie McPhee in Seattle for unique gag gifts, quirky treasures, and the fun Rubber Chicken Museum. It’s a delight for anyone seeking whimsy and laughter!
Newsletter December 2024: Applications are Live!
Applications are open for fan tables, dealers’ room, and art show; site selection bids are being accepted; make sure your registration is current; community fund applications and donations are open; the single pattern contest is announced; fun crafty projects for you; our group costume theme; and the business meeting moves online.