Short Notes

Michael Bracken sent me a pair of links from the Strange Horizons guideline pages. Even if you don't write horror or sci-fi they're worth a look because the editors have listed over-done story ideas. As I read through the list, I wondered if there was anything left to write about. Then I remembered - always think outside the box, and if you have a prompt, go with idea 365 not your first or second thought. Here's your links http://www.strangehorizons.com/guidelines/fiction-common.shtml and http://www.strangehorizons.com/guidelines/fiction-common-horror.shtml

And if you're in Houston, Texas this weekend drop on by ApolloCon. Michael will be on a panel moderated by another excellent short story writer, Bill Crider. I'm jealous of you guys who can attend that panel. Should be a fun time.

For fans of the Dick Tracy comic strip, there's a new website that's been set up as a tribute to the comic strip called Plainclothes http://www.plainclothescomics.com/ There are several familiar names to mystery and comic book readers including Max Allen Collins.

Dave Zeltserman has set up a new blog for his short story character Julius Katz. He has several posts up and this looks like its going to be a fun blog. And an interesting way to bring attention to his new short story characters. http://juliuskatzandarchie.blogspot.com/ For short story writers with series characters this might be something to keep an eye on. Novelists set up this type of blog and website for their characters, so, why not for shorts?