Features

Abstract Fantasy vs. Direct Sci-Fi in Neurodivergent Representation

by Theodore Boronkay Fantasy and sci-fi literature are both filled with examples of neurodivergent characters in strange universes. SFF writers can highlight realities ignored in our familiar reality by re-positioning the marginalized within hypothetical contexts that other genres couldn’t explore, allowing them the best opportunity to comment on the treatment of the neurodivergent. Dr. Matthias Stephan, an English literary scholar, further argues that fantasy is the superior genre for marginalization commentary because it’s frequently more Read more

By caitlin.mckenna, ago

NaNoWriMo Controversy and Alternatives

by Zenia deHaven It’s that time of year again. The leaves are turning red and gold, stores are bulldozing over Thanksgiving and shoveling out the Christmas decorations, and I can finally don my massive cozy sweaters without judgment. November, while boasting the ever-esteemed holidays of Thanksgiving and Black Friday, is also the month of NaNoWriMo.  What is NaNoWriMo?  If you are new to the writing community, you may not know that National Novel Writing Month Read more

By caitlin.mckenna, ago

Pillow Fight

by Ian Rossin I slide into my sleeping bag and lie down, resting my head on my semi-flat pillow. I then close my eyes, try to relax my body, focus on my breathing pattern, and attempt to sleep. I’ve nearly sunken into unconsciousness when a pillow smacks me in the face. I leap to my feet, incredulous, and turn to Charlie, who’s kneeling at the edge of his bed and holding the attack weapon over Read more

By caitlin.mckenna, ago

The Worst All-Nighter

by Rebecca Trifari A call. A simple call is all that it takes to change the rest of Sarah’s life forever.  She usually puts her phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode, but tonight she feels unmotivated with her work and decides to scroll through her device to distract herself.  We have Claire. Do a little favor for us and she will be fine. You have five hours. Hack this system.  In panic, Sarah accidentally drops Read more

By caitlin.mckenna, ago

Contest Winner: Guard Dog

By Zenia deHaven Cerberus was eyeing the boulder of Sisyphus when a swirling portal cleaved space and time in two.  The hound of hell didn’t notice. There was a true miracle transpiring before him that required all his attention. Sisyphus was rolling his boulder up the mound. This was not unusual. What was unusual was that Sisyphus rarely made it this far out of the Underworld. Cerberus’ post was at the mouth of Hades, bordering Read more

By logan.farley, ago