Introduction

            Before venturing further into this blog, keep in mind that this is a one man operation, and that man, Awesomov, cannot read everything. In fact, to quote Isaac Asimov, the man whose name Awesomov has parodied, “I am not a speed reader. I am a speed understander.” This is a fancy way of saying, “I am a slow reader.” Not painfully slow, like taking a year to read a two hundred page novel, but slow nonetheless. Awesomov also has a tendency of reading from certain authors more than others (mostly Philip K. Dick), but is willing to give any author a try at least once, and thus collects a bunch of random crap from used book shelves if something seems at least semi-interesting. Nonetheless, if there is a particular piece of work you'd like to recommend for review or for future reading, or if you have questions, feel free to do so by sending messages to: 0awesomov0@gmail.com.

            Just remember that Awesomov will only review science fiction. To douse the flames of confusion, Rod Serling greatly put into one sentence what truly separates science fiction and fantasy, which is, “Science fiction makes the improbable possible; fantasy makes the impossible probable.” For those who don't quite understand, what this basically means is science fiction, while still unreal in its implications, is based typically on real concepts or concepts that could be real, and normally attempts to make them seem real. Fantasy, on the other hand, utilizes concepts that obviously aren't real, and can pretty much go any which way it wants because it is not bound by the laws of anything. The other major distinction is the use of soft and hard sciences and technology in science fiction, while fantasy uses magic and whimsy. Sometimes the genres mix, like with space operas and the aptly named science fantasy. Awesomov does not always shy away from those genres, but still simply prefers science fiction.

            Also take note of the blog entry headings, as they indicate whether a novel or a short story is being reviewed. In keeping with proper grammar, short stories and novelettes are listed in quotes, and novels and novellas are italicized. This knowledge should help avoid confusion in case a post does not state whether a review is about a short story or novel. Keep this in mind particularly for stories that have multiple versions, ala short story turned into novel, and so on.

            Although Awesomov normally won't even give a description of what the plot's about (maybe unless it's a short story with an odd title, but you can read the descriptions on the backs of novels for plot insight), don't be surprised if you come upon spoilers. Sometimes they can be avoided, but moments may arise when a spoiler is necessary to give a proper review. I apologize in advance if this occurs and upsets you. Feel free to type up angry hate-filled letters about it and send them to the email address above.

            Lastly, Awesomov's goal here is not always to be insightful, nor to be as eloquent as possible. It is simply to spew forth opinion and reasoning for such, and there may be some rambling. Yet another aspect of the blog to apologize in advance for. This does not bode well.