Week 6: Building Base Knowledge (Genres)

Assignment #1:

I have not found the SF Site to be particulary helpful to me.  I think it is a great tool to recommend to avid SF readers, but for someone like me who just dabbles in the genre from time to time, it does not have quite as much appeal.  A few useful tidbits:

• Search feature if you are looking for a review on a particular title
• The site reviews SF movies as well as books
• New Arrivals section for those looking for the latest titles in the genre
• Podcasts reviews if you want something a little more interactive

Assignment #2:

I am still learning to get used to Prezi and find it to be frustrating at times.  While I can see the positives it brings versus PowerPoint, I still prefer the simplicity and ability to print that PowerPoint brings.  We are actually thinking about using Prezi for our Leadership Development Program presentation, so it was helpful to explore it again.

Assignment #3:

Fan Websites:

1.) Cozy Mysteries (http://www.cozy-mystery.com/)

• Fan Buzz: It is clear that the bloggers on this website are passionate about their cozy mysteries.  It appears to be popular among women who are looking for a fun and engaging mystery.  I found the website using a Google search.
• Three Authors: Leslie Meier, Joanne Fluke, Laura Childs
• Appeal Factors: Fun, engaging, light-hearted, gentle, upbeat, leisurely paced

2.)  Paranormal Romances (http://paranormalromancefanforlife.blogspot.com/)

• Fan Buzz: Contains a list of current reviews and a guest author appearance by A.D. Starling with background information and a summar of her latest novel,  King's Crusade.
• Three Authors: J.R. Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Karen Marie Moning
• Appeal Factors: Fantasy, sensual, Fast-paced, amusing, steamy

3.)  Steampunk (http://www.steampunk.com/fiction/)

• Fan Buzz: For fans of this genre, there is a Steampunk Book of the Day category and an archives listed by month which contain reviews of titles.  There is also a useful search feature if you know the title you are looking for and an events page which gives updates on author signings and conventions.
• Three Authors: Scott Westerfield, Stephen Hunt, Charles Babbage
• Appeal Factors: Action-packed, world building, fast-paced, compelling

Genre Mashup:

1.)  Steampunk + Paranormal

Boneshaker by Cherie Priest has all of the appeal factors of a traditional steampunk title, but combines it with zombies.

2.)  Paranormal + Historical Fiction

 Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith retells parts of Abraham Lincoln's life and combines it with the paranormal element of vampires.