I need some really great #ebook recommendations to keep me company while I isolate with #COVID for the next five days. I like literary fiction, thoughtful #scifi#sff, inventive takes on genre fiction like detective novels, historical novels, etc. and also anything funny. Hit me. @bookstodon#bookstodon#books#amreading
Hi everyone, as I'm closing in on the finish of the 4th booklet in this series, I thought I'd post a quick reminder about them:
The Hard SF Worldbuilding Cookbooks:
Find and inspire unique prompts. Choose the location. Write the story. Have the science for it, as needed.
Inspiration, then #worldbuilding.
"Edie tilted her head to listen. It was catchy, full of bouncy rhythms. It made Edie think of sparkly outfits and dancing...
The name of the singer had been said so quickly, and besides that, all musicians gave themselves funny names. They’d done that even when Edie was young. But she’d put down her best guess and now she wouldn’t forget it."
Tech that unlocks memory, fandom, joy, heartbreak, dignity, & camaraderie
What are your thoughts on "His Master's Voice" by Stanislaw Lem? I read 3 chapter so far and how my god is it dense. Should I keep reading or just admit that his style of prose is not for me?
A rocky ring world with a dense atmosphere and a ring. The ring is there as a result of an impact with a smaller celestial body a long time ago. Eventually, every last piece of the ring will eventually return to the planet. #Blender3D#scifi#scifiart
I'm Currently reading a very cool series called "Sector General", that follows the adventures of the medical staff at a massive floating hospital station in space, and their complex dealings with various fantastical alien lifeforms. They always strive to do no harm and except everyone. The crazy thing? The first book was written in 1957, and it still holds up pretty damn well in some ways, while having completely different attitudes from modern SciFi in others. Definitely ahead of it's time in allot of respects.
I couldn't find all the books anywhere except NLS Bard, but I know that Kindle and bookshare have some of them at least, and it's one of those series you can jump into pretty easily without missing out on much. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sector_General #scifi #scienceFiction #books #reading
Hey all! Here for my #introduction, I'm new to this instance, but not to Fedi.
I'm Ashkenazi, my parents and I belonged to a Reform temple growing up. I currently am a member of a non-denominational synagogue near me that has conservative roots. Most of social media online is antisemitic and exhausting. Happy to see a Jewish server on here and have been meaning to join for a while.
Still seeking decent sources of bagels near me as a New York-to-Boston transplant, have been ordering bagels as gifts for my equally transplanted parents straight from NYC. Goldbelly has saved us all. I did manage to find a very good Jewish deli near me whose bagels are pretty tasty, although not quite the same.
I can't believe I slept on #TheOrville as long as I did. I guess I was put off by the fact that MacFarlane is the #FamilyGuy guy. A Star Trek parody rooted in that style of humor did not appeal.
Imagine my surprise to learn that it's not a Star Trek parody. And it's not Family Guy-esque. At all.
It's just... well, it's not Start Trek. But it's like getting to watch a Star Trek unburdened by canon. MacFarlane has crafted a very fine love letter to Roddenberry here. #SciFi#ScienceFiction
Some might be curious about the rules of /m/scifi so I have them posted here for reference:
Rule 1: Respectful and Inclusive Discussions
In the federated internet community about science fiction, it is crucial to foster an environment that values respectful and inclusive discussions. Members should treat each other with respect, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or opinions. Discrimination, harassment, or any form of hate speech should not be tolerated. Encourage open-mindedness and a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable expressing their ideas and engaging in constructive debates.
Rule 2: Evidence-Based Arguments
As a community centered around science fiction, it is important to base discussions and arguments on evidence and logical reasoning. Encourage members to support their viewpoints with references to relevant literature, movies, or other credible sources. Promote critical thinking and discourage baseless claims or unfounded speculation. By fostering evidence-based discussions, the community can maintain its credibility and contribute to a more informed understanding of science fiction.
Rule 3: Mutual Learning and Collaboration
The federated internet community should serve as a platform for mutual learning and collaboration among its members. Encourage individuals to share their knowledge, insights, and experiences related to science fiction. Foster a culture of curiosity and intellectual growth, where members can engage in constructive dialogues and learn from each other. By embracing diverse perspectives and promoting collaboration, the community can become a vibrant hub for science fiction enthusiasts to expand their understanding of the genre.
Rule 4: No Spoilers without Proper Warnings
Respecting the enjoyment of others is essential in any community centered around science fiction. Avoid sharing spoilers without proper warnings and considerate labeling. Recognize that people may be at different stages of experiencing various science fiction works and may not appreciate having key plot points or surprises revealed prematurely. By being mindful of spoilers, members can maintain an environment that allows everyone to fully engage with and appreciate the narratives within science fiction works.
Rule 5: Self-promo is a privilege, not a right
The ratio of content to self-promotion in a community can vary depending on the specific context and the community's goals. However, it is generally recommended to prioritize content over self-promotion to maintain a healthy and engaging community environment. Here are some guidelines to consider:
Content First: Emphasize the importance of valuable and relevant content that adds value to the community.
Limit Self-Promotion: While self-promotion can have its place within a community, it should not dominate the content. Encourage members to engage with the community through meaningful discussions and contributions rather than solely promoting their own work or products. Promote Community Engagement: Actively encourage community members to participate in discussions, share their perspectives, and contribute to the community's growth. Engaging content fosters a sense of community ownership and encourages members to interact with each other.
Clear Self-Promotion Guidelines: Establish clear guidelines regarding self-promotion to avoid ambiguity and ensure transparency.
Edit - 09/19/2023 Update - The John Shirley Rule - Authors with long-standing industry pedigree (John Shirley, et al) are allowed flexibility on Rule #5. Flexibility is granted on a case-by-case basis.
Remember, the ultimate goal of a community is to facilitate meaningful interactions, shared learning, and the exchange of valuable content. By prioritizing content over self-promotion, the community can maintain its focus, encourage active participation, and create a more vibrant and engaging space for its members.
Rule 6: No NSFW content - we cater to SF fans of all ages.
Maintaining a Safe and Inclusive Environment: The scifi community's decision to prohibit NSFW (Not Safe for Work) content is primarily aimed at creating a safe and inclusive space for all members. By disallowing explicit or adult-oriented content, the community ensures that people of all ages and backgrounds can participate without feeling uncomfortable, offended, or excluded.
Focusing on Intellectual Exploration: The scifi community often emphasizes intellectual discussions, creative exploration, and thought-provoking content related to science fiction. Preserving Professional and Academic Relevance: Many members of the scifi community include professionals, academics, and industry experts who contribute their knowledge and expertise to discussions and projects.
For next 30 days, feel free to add your comments/feedback on these rules and then we'll call them 'done' for the next 12 months. Thanks. :)
Part of the SF Masterworks Collection. Despite being nearly 60 years old the narrative around the manipulation of the truth feels incredibly prescient. Wondering whether David Whitaker had read it before he came up with #DoctorWho story The Enemy of the World. #Books#Bookstodon#SciFi#PhilipKDick
The Frood: The Authorised and Very Official History of Douglas Adams & The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
Jem Roberts
Finished coincidentally on what would have been the great writers 71st birthday. I’ve read Jem’s other comedy biographies of I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue, Blackadder, Fry & Laurie and The Beatles and as a comedy geek enjoyed them all.
The influence on Orwell’s 1984 is obvious and there are lots of great ideas and passages within the story. That said while I appreciated it I can’t say I ever felt gripped by it or as engaged with the characters as in 84 or other similar works.