Monday, June 8, 2015

New RiffTrax, Dinosaur Movie Trivia, Are You a Genre Purist, CassaFire Translation, and Ninja News

I’m visiting EE Georgi’s at Chimeras today, discussing the path of my books and what it took to start over with a new universe in Dragon of the Stars. (*It's live now!)

And if you missed it, I talked about the secret to marketing at Patricia Stoltey’s last Thursday.

New From RiffTrax!

Remember the travesty that was Rock ‘n’ Roll Nightmare?

RiffTrax describes it as hair metal meets hideous puppets!

Go HERE to download or stream.


Ninja News

Today at the Insecure Writer’s Support Group we have none other than the amazing Elizabeth S. Craig, discussing audio books for independent authors.

And at the A to Z Blog, the Themes That Rocked the Challenge guest is Hank Kaykuala. He highlighted his friend, Yusuf Hashim, who takes people on photo adventures around the world. Be sure to stop by!

Out Now –

Avalon: a Heartwarming True Cat Story by Vanessa Morgan

Find it on Amazon, Amazon UK, Amazon CA, and Amazon FR, Amazon NL

And visit her site this month for a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card, a signed book of Avalon, a cat collar, and a pack of cat toys!

Available June 9!

Jophiel: Path of Angels by Patricia Lynne

They must fight to stay on the path…

Find it on Amazon and Goodreads

Find Patricia: Website-Blog, Twitter, Wattpad, and Goodreads





Battle of the Band results –

The song was Shock the Monkey and despite early votes one direction, favor swung later on. The voting tally, counting mine for Coal Chamber:

Suburban Tribe - 15

Coal Chamber - 22

CassaFire Translation Details

Appreciated all of the congratulations last Wednesday!

Several of you had questions regarding the translation of CassaFire into Turkish, which I will do my best to answer here.

The publisher is Gürer Yayıncılık Publishing, LTD and CassaFire will be the beginning of their science fiction line. (Yes, they picked my book first! No idea why…)

The translation won’t be available until next year. I’ll keep you posted on the release date.

I hope to get a copy of the book (they are doing a print run as well as eBooks) but it depends on how many copies they send to my publisher.

No, I can’t read the Turkish language! But if I get a copy, it will be really cool to see my book in another language.

My titles are available worldwide, but this will be the first translation.


And in other news, Andrew Leon gave CassaStorm a really in-depth and thoughtful review last Friday. I even managed to surprise him! Double Ninja Score.


Movie Trivia

With Jurassic World coming out this Friday, I thought it was time for a little dinosaur trivia. Name the dinosaur movie from the clues. Answers on Monday!

1 - This 1975 movie with Doug McClure took place during WWI and involved a German sub finding a place called Caprona.
2 – This 1969 film was half Western and involved a T-Rex.
3 – This 1988 animated film spawned many, many sequels.
4 – This 1997 movie involved two groups of people with different agendas on an island with dinosaurs.
5 – This 1993 film was produced by Roger Corman, spawned two sequels, and starred Diane Ladd.

Genre Selective or Purist?

I’m going to throw this question out for you – are you a genre purist when it comes to books? Do you read several genres or stick to one main genre? If you are a writer, do you primarily read in your genre or do you explore others?

They say to read other books in your genre to get a feel for it and keep up to date. And I know authors who read almost exclusively in their genre. But they also say to expand your literary horizons and read a variety.

I may write science fiction, but I probably read more fantasy than anything else. I also read a variety, especially as I have author friends who write a in variety of genres. (I’ve read paranormal romance, memoirs, chick lit, poetry, and all sorts of books I wouldn’t have read otherwise.)

What about you? Do you stick to your genre and rarely venture further? Or do you read a wide variety?


Going to check out RiffTrax’s Rock and Roll Nightmare? Picking up some new books? Know any of the trivia? Seeing Jurrasic World this weekend? And do you read mostly your genre or do you read a variety?

Don’t forget to visit EE Georgi’s Chimeras!

I'll be on vacation this week from Thursday through Sunday with limited Internet. I will be checking my email though. If I miss your visit, I will catch you next week.

152 comments:

RaveAir said...

You can find dinosaurs at the Kung Fury (movie?) too. :)
It's funny, and full with the essence of the '80-s. You should check it on the Youtube.

Elephant's Child said...

Congratulations to all those with books coming out.
I read from many genres. Most genres. And I am fond of books which straddle genres too. Life it too short to put limits on pleasure/education.

Cathrina Constantine said...

It's awesome that a publisher over in Turkey picked your book first!!! I write mainly YA, and I like to read YA, but I also read many different genres.

I hope you enjoy your vacation!!

Natalie Aguirre said...

Congrats, Alex! I missed your awesome news while I was on break. Very excited for you.

I read a lot of fantasy (and write in that genre), but do read other genres too. I've been sticking to middle grade and YA for years and am feeling the urge to start reading some adult fiction too.

Vanessa Morgan said...

Thanks so much for the Avalon shout-out, Alex :-)

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

Hair metal meets hideous puppets. :) Love that!

Excited for the translation!

Mysteries are my favorites, but I read all genres. Trying my first non-mystery now...steep learning curve. But I think it's good for me, creatively!

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

I think #3 is The Land Before Time. Even though my son likes dinosaurs, he never got into that series. He prefers to watch documentaries about them.

I write both science fiction and fantasy (probably more fantasy these days), and I read mostly both genres, again mostly fantasy.

TBM said...

It'll be so cool to see your novel in a different language. I'm excited for you.

Wow, I'm striking out with the trivia this time.

I don't stick with one genre. I'll get in a kick and read several mysteries or something in a row, but I'm pretty much all over the board. It keeps it fresh and my main requirement is for a book to have a good story.

Rhonda Albom said...

Where are you headed on vacation? Hopefully somewhere wonderful. It must be so exciting to have your book translated. I just can't get my head around the concept that you might not get a copy. Even if your publisher only gets one copy, it should go to you.

mail4rosey said...

I'm not a genre purist, though I do have a definite preference. I didn't know Jurassic was coming out this Friday. I wonder if my son's too young for that one or not.

mail4rosey said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Think I know some of those Trivia movies - but not by name, unless I cheat.

As for genre: I write mainly mysteries, although my current WIP is post-apocalypse SF with fantasy elements. However, read outside my genre(s) and usually authors/books that spark my interest - and that includes quite a few historicals recently.

Congratulations to everyone that has just had a book/story released.

writing and living by Richard P Hughes said...

Vanessa Morgan seems to be an accomplished writer and all around talented person.

Congrats on your novel opening the publisher's sci/fi line of books.

Nilanjana Bose said...

Wow speechless here as well! :) Congrats on the translation! How super cool is that?!

I will read a variety of genres - any book that can hold my interest, fiction, non-fiction, poetry. Hardcore violence is off-putting sometimes, so is explicit content where the treatment of female characters shows them as ludicrously spineless, apart from that, anything goes.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Zoltan, I will!

Elephant, well said.

Natalie, follow that urge.

Vanessa, you're welcome.

Elizabeth, I can't wait to read your first effort outside of mystery!

Sandra, you are correct.

TBM, well said.

Rhonda, if I don't, it will be all right.

Rosey, you know it will be intense.

mshatch said...

I write fantasy, scifi, historical, and contemporary YA/Adult and read all those genres as well as others so I'm not picky about what I read. It just has to be good!

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

I tend to read across the board for the most part. If the story sounds good, I'll pick it up, regardless of the genre. I don't usually read sci fi but the stories of WOOL by Hugh Howey and THE MARTIAN by Andy Weir intrigued me, and I ended up enjoying them both. :)

Enjoy your vacation, Alex!

A Beer for the Shower said...

Rifftrax for download? I like the sound of that.

Forget reading: we don't even write in the same genre. If it's good, we read it. Or write it. We love exploring new worlds, and that even includes sci-fi (not in Turkish, though). I'd even be willing to say that reading the Cassa-series inspired our jump into both reading and writing more sci-fi. Like Andrew, we were also pleasantly surprised.

mail4rosey said...

Well I had duplicate comments and deleted one, but it took them both out, lol. I have a definite preference, but I'm not a genre snob. ;) I don't know if we'll see the new Jurassic, my son's a bit of a wimp (like his mama). ;)

Jo said...

Congratulations to the new authors. I read Vanessa's blog mentioning her new book Avalon.

I kind of think I might know the answer to one of your movie questions but can't think of the name right now. duuh.

Through my life I have read through many genres but these days I read a lot of sci fi and fantasy. I am re-reading the Dresden files right now. Yes I know, you never re-read. Enjoy your short vacation.

H. R. Sinclair said...

I'm a genre binger. I mostly read my genre but I also binge read a bunch of book in other genres. Something in that first one I read hooks me, so I need to read more.

River Fairchild said...

Congrats on the translation deal! I'm not a genre purist. I read anything that looks interesting to me. Going to dig out my Jurassic DVDs and rewatch them before World comes out. Have a great vacation!

Tonja Drecker said...

Wow! They picked your book first to be published...sounds like an extra smile. (Guess you're going to have to learn a few key phrases in the book in turkish now ;) )
I have a couple genres I usually stick to more than others, but I'm pretty cross the board. My writing's the same way. It's the story that's important to me, not the genre.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Congrats on the Turkish translation.

#4 sounds like The Lost World.

I read a variety although I lean more towards non-fiction these days.

kaykuala said...

Alex,
Thanks so much for highlighting my buddy The Modern Day Explorer in the A to Z Blog! Really appreciate it! Yusuf will continue to explore in 2015 no stopping. There is so much to share. Hank hopes to continue with the theme in the coming months as long as Yusuf continues with his travels!

Hank

Jennifer Hawes said...

Oh my word, I can't stop buying books. I read all the time. Lately, I've been on a sci-fi/fantasy kick (heavy on the fantasy side:). Yes, I will see Jurassic Park this weekend!!

shelly said...

I read everything, including food labels. And good for you on your series.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

You have a lot going on in your world. Seeing your book in a different language should be fun.
I read a little bit of most anything, though mostly books for teens. Guess I've never grown up.
Have a great week.

Christine Rains said...

Congrats to everyone on their releases! That would be totally cool to see your book in a different language. I read a variety of genres. Though my novels are mainly urban fantasy/paranormal romances, my short stories are from all different genres. It's fun to venture out into something new. I've been reading non-fiction lately and even some poetry (which I still don't get, but I can enjoy the word play!). Have a great vacation!

Shell Flower said...

Cool that people will soon be reading your book in Turkish. Rock on. Some great books coming out this week. I definitely read outside my genre. Actually, I don't stick to any one genre writing, either. I'm a genre-bender for sure.

Arlee Bird said...

Your BOTB could have been either one for me but I went with the winning side. It was a good match.

Turkish seems like a strange language to see a first translation in. It would be interesting to know their reasoning in picking your book for a first translate. Maybe "cassafire" means something in Turkish. Isn't there a Turkish food dish with a name like that?

Arlee Bird
A to Z Challenge Co-host
Road trippin' with A to Z
Tossing It Out

T. Powell Coltrin said...

I am an eclectic reader and writer. There are some genres I wouldn't write(or read) but I like a mix.

I'm going over to read E. on Insecure.

Libby said...

Why hello there Turkey! That's awesome!!!!!

Pat Hatt said...

If it is good, I don't care what genre it is in, I'll read it.

1. The land that time forgot
2. ummmm John Wayne vs. Godzilla
3. The Land before time
4. Jurassic Park 2
5. Carnosaur, had the poster to that movie, never watched it though.

Sandra Cox said...

OMG, Alex, your book is being translated into Turkish???? How cool is that. I'm so pleased and happy for you.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks, Nilanjana!

Madeline, see? Science fiction can be good.

Brandon and Bryan, that's good to hear!

Jo, that makes you uber-cool.

T, guess I will have to figure out at least one Turkish phrase.

Diane, you are correct.

Hank, you're welcome!

Shelly, that made me chuckle.

Lee, that would be funny it it meant a food.

Karen, I didn't watch it, but that's an amazing gathering of rockers.

Thanks, everyone!

Chrys Fey said...

My interests are all over the place, so I read and write all different genres. I think it would get pretty boring to stick to just one.

VR Barkowski said...

Congrats on the Turkish translation! Awesome. I read widely. I find writers who read only their own genre (I can only speak for mystery here) end up writing formula. Not that that’s a bad thing. Many readers want the comfort and security of the linear predictable whodunnit—but that’s not the kind of writer I want to be.

VR Barkowski

Jay Noel said...

I'll be checking out your links - especially your guest post on the secret to marketing. Need me summa dat. Ok, Movie Trivia:
1) The Land That Time Forgot
2) I don't know, but now I wanna see that!
3) Land Before Time (I lost count of how many sequels)
4) Jurassic Park
5) Carnosaur

Unknown said...

I def read anything and everything. I prefer YA but I find I get bored if I stay with the same thing all the time. As for writing, I haven't written anything other than YA contemp but I'd never say never to trying other genres/styles! Heading to Vanessa's blog now!

Karen Lange said...

Congrats on the translation! That is exciting. Heading over to Chimeras now.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

I used to be a genre purist until I realized I have such talented, amazing blog friends I want to support. I started breaking out with books like Cassa Star. Now I'm as impure as a reality tv star.

Have a great week Alex.

Holy Ghost Writer said...

You learn more when reading many different genres

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Dang -- I certainly hope your publishers coughs up at least one Turkish copy of your book for you to own!!!

I tend to stick to fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, and mystery -- in MG, YA, and adult versions. And sometimes non-fiction if it's an interesting subject or potential story fodder.

I am not drawn to contemporary, romance, poetry, or memoirs -- usually. I made an exception for I AM MALALA, which I think every American should read.

Bish Denham said...

I read just about anything, including lots of different kinds of non-fiction. I would get bored, I think, reading/writing in only one genre.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Pat you got four right, although you get bonus points for creativity with number two!

Sandra, thanks! It's still amazing.

VR, you have more in you than formula.

Jay, you got three!

Robyn, thanks, and that made me laugh!

Holy Ghost, that is so true.

Dianne, those aren't books I normally read either, though I have read at least one in each genre.

EEGiorgi said...

Thanks so much Alex, so sorry for the glitch in the post :-(
have a great vacation !!

Claude Forthomme said...

Congrats on all your new books and getting one in Turkey, that's great!

Like so many here, I'm a multiple genre reader and I love crossover, I even (argh, choking) like literary, ha ha!

Patricia Stoltey said...

Alex, I read in almost every genre plus a lot of nonfiction. I'll admit to being a little light in fantasy and romance, but I do read the best of the best in those lines, especially when written by writers I know.

Can't wait to read Avalon by Vanessa Morgan. I've turned into a real cat person!

Thanks again for being my guest blogger last week. Your post was excellent and your philosophy rocks!

Anonymous said...

I hope you do get a copy. I had my first YA picked up by a Turkish publisher (no idea how they found me or why they picked me) and they sent me 5 copies. I can't read it either, but it's awesome to have.

M Pax said...

Metal with puppets? lol Amusing.

Can't wait for Jurassic World. Will have to wait a few weeks, but I'll definitely be seeing it in 3D.

Sarah Ahiers said...

i read pretty much everything in YA, but in adult I stick pretty firmly to SFF, or some nonfiction

Sarah Foster said...

I read and write a lot of different genres. But when I'm writing something, I do like to read books in that particular genre to help with inspiration.

Al Penwasser said...

I don't know if I'm what you call a genre purist or not. When I write, I can't help writing snark (surprised?), although I have written some serious stuff.
As far as the books I read, I tend to gravitate toward non-fiction or, if fiction, HISTORICAL fiction. Surprisingly (maybe...?) I do not read humor books.
Hmmm, maybe I am sort of a purist, after all.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

That would be really cool to have a copy of your book in another language. I read in a lot of different genres, suspense, mystery, literary, and of course science fiction and fantasy. I actually read less romance than anything else though I write that.
Probably won't see Jurassic Park until the following weekend. I hate the crowds on opening weekends. Have fun on vacation.

Carrie-Anne said...

My guess for #3 is The Land Before Time.

I mostly only read historical fiction and classic world literature, though I also like some sci-fi. A lot of folks are surprised when they discover I have some soft sci-fi/futuristic stories planned and on hiatus, and that I like reading sci-fi from time to time. I know I should read more widely, though it seems unlikely I'd suddenly develop an overwhelming passion for a genre I've never really gotten into, like high epic fantasy or psychological thrillers.

Birgit said...

I say congrats to you! It is thrilling that your book will be in another language. I am bad in reading novels but I enjoy a variety for sure. I read a lot on "fact" based books which covers biographies, film, art, travel, the unknown, and so on. As for the movie questions. I know the first one is "The Land that Time forgot" I believe. I actually saw that film with the cowboys and dinosaur when I was a kid. I feel like it starts with a G but can't think of it. The animated film is The Land Before Time I think. One of the films must be Jurassic park. I have no idea about the last film:)

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

Congratulations, Alex for making a big splash in Turkish. That's very exciting news and I hope that it is very well received :)

Ash-Matic said...

I can't wait for Jurassic World! I love monster movies more than any other kind, and a bigass genetically-modified dinosaur hybrid definitely counts as a monster in my book!

I don't think I'll ever be a genre purist. I'm a genre slut. I like to take home lots of different genres, and get them into my bed, and then when I've had my fun I kick them out in the morning. And then when I can't get hold of any other genres I go crawling back to them, but they've often lost respect for me by then and I end up with nothing to read. Dammit.

Suzanne Furness said...

My husband says I read way too many 'kids' books (MG/YA) but there are truly some fantastic books out there. I write mainly MG so it is good to stay current there. I do read other genres too. If only there were more free hours!

Looking forward to Jurassic World.

DiscConnected said...

1 - The Land That Time Forgot
2 – Shoot-I remember the guy from the second Planet Of The Apes movie was in it, but cannot remember the name
3 – The Land Before Time? I do not recall any sequels (unless they went straight to home video)
4 – JPII-The Lost World (I am pretty sure that's the release year, and that certainly sums up the plot of the first act)
5 – Carnosaur?

Always been a fan of time travel films and "lost world" type stories...

Anonymous said...

Not seeing Jurassic this weekend, I'll be busy concerting! I used to be a horror/thriller genre reader/writer, but I decided a couple of years ago that I would branch out and read as many genres as I could. Glad I did. Enjoy your vacay. I know - Oops, I did it again! Thought you just got back. SMH. Hugs.

Melissa said...

I still can't believe your book is being translated into another language. That is so cool. :)

stephen Hayes said...

My reading is rather eclectic. I don't stick with any genre but pick up whatever catches my attention.

~Sia McKye~ said...

Well, hells bells. My comment disappeared. Sheesh.

We definitely seeing Jurrasic World, either this weekend or next. I have another movie I want to see as well, with Robert Redford...a Walk in the Woods, or something like that. About two older guys who decide to walk the Applachian Trail.

I think having a copy of your book in another language sitting on your shelf would be cool. And no, I'm not at all surprised to see they chose your book to start the sci-fi line. Your stories are fun and have good world building.

My kid loved all the Little Foot movies. To be honest, I did too.

As for genres I read many. I'm not into little kids books since I have no little kids or horror--don't like scary things. When I'm writing in my genre I tend not to read it because I want the ideas, wording, and world to be my own and not influenced by someone elses' story.

Sia McKye Over Coffee

Karen Jones Gowen said...

I did miss your marketing post-- thanks for the link, I'll go check it out now. Regarding genre, I've read just about everything in every genre, going through phases at different times in my life.

Annalisa Crawford said...

I read a mixture of genres, but mostly books which defy genre (at least as far as I'm concerned). I like to read literary fiction, which brushes up against a lot of different genres.

Enjoy your vacation.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

EE, thank you and no worries!

Patricia, Katie Cat will insist you read Avalon.

Patricia, that's really cool. Must be something about Turkey.

Al, maybe you are. And you - snark? Never.

Carrie-Anne, correct, and you never know...

Birgit, you got two, close on one of them, and there is a G in the title.

Ash, always dig the monster movies. And that made me chuckle.

Larry, you got four right! And I think they did all go straight to video.

Eva, heading out this week!

Melissa, it blows my mind.

Sia, thanks!

Thanks, guys!

Michelle Wallace said...

It's really funny that before I started writing, I was more-or-less a purist. I was mainly into the suspense/thriller genre...
Within the last year or so, I've expanded my reading horizons. I've just read my first 'high fantasy' story.
Steampunk is the only genre I haven't read... yet.
I love your 'secret to marketing' over at Patricia Stoltey's blog. Simple and yet effective.
Off to E.E Giorgi's blog.

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Love the story about Yusuf Hashim. Wouldn't it be fun to go on one of his photography journeys? Hope you get the book translated into Turkish! Have a wonderful vacation!

Lan said...

As a teen I used to read only fantasy. Then I discovered the wide world of other genres and now I read everything. I guess it depends on what I'm in the mood for. If I'm really annoyed with the world the last thing I want to read is a contemporary novel or a drama. But if I'm a bit fatigued with fantasy I'll often go for a biography. I understand those who choose to read only in their genre but I hate doing research so often my reading is dual purpose!

Fundy Blue said...

Hi, Alex! When it comes to reading, I am an omnivore!!!! Enjoy your mini-vacation!

Cindy said...

For a while I mostly read science fiction, but I've expanded to read historical and stories based true life.

Cherie Reich said...

Whether you can read your book in another language or not, it'd be awesome to have a copy.
3 - Land Before Time?
4 - The Lost World
(Not sure of 1, 2, 5)
And I love to read many different genres, although I'm less likely to pick up a book of poetry, non-fiction, and literary than some other types of work.

J E Oneil said...

I'm not sure about most of the trivia. I guess I'm not up on my dinosaur movies.

I read a few different genres. Mystery, fantasy, horror, anything dark. And occasionally a genre I don't usually read pops up, too. I read what I enjoy and don't worry about anything else :)

Dean K Miller said...

Author friends are great for new genre material. I'll read just about anything that's well written.

Me and the Dinosaur's not so good, except Dino from the Flintstones.

RiffTrax will be a download for sure.

Jenni said...

Congrats again on the Turkish translation! That's going to be so cool to see your words in another language--and they picked you first. I tend to read mostly in my own genre (kidlit), but I also read a lot of nonfiction and fiction for adults as well. It seems like when I read the genre I write, it feels like work, because I'm analyzing what works or not. So when I need a break or to relax, I read outside my genre.

Anonymous said...

I enjoyed Avalon a lot.

I'll read just about any genre. I'm also branching out in my writing.

XmasDolly said...

You know what Alex... even though I love your blog, and I really don't know any of the answers to any of your questions I do like the type of books you write & maybe my opinions are dumb and all of your comments here look college educated, but I went to the School of hard knocks, and got my education on the streets. I slid by the seat of my pants on most jobs & just used my wits to get through the door. I became a legal Assistant through a International School of Correspondence because that's all I could afford, but here I'm afraid my lack of education shows. I don't think you'll get down to my comment anyway. You've never answered my questions (not that I expected you too) anyway. I've only written one book, but haven't typed it up yet, and I'm sure the English is godawful... :( Oh well... all I really meant to say was thanks for stopping by.

Unknown said...

Sorry I'm late, but I was at my in-laws today and just got home.

You're getting translated!!! Whooohooo! This is really shaping up to be your year. Being nominated for the Philip K. Dick award and this as well.

It is wonderful when a truly nice person succeeds. Much of the time it is the most ruthless and cut throat of people who get ahead and nice guys finish last. I have no idea how you manage to be so even handed and level headed on blogger with so many people, not all of whom are kind. But you do. Here's to all the best for you in future!

Truedessa said...

Hi Alex,

I am clueless about the dinosaur movies. I will await your review on Jurassic World before I venture out to the theater again.

As far as reading books go, I like to read various genre. As long as the book looks interesting I will read it. As, a general rule if the author doesn't hook me in the first few chapters I won't continue reading.

Wishing you a good week!

Joanne said...

First and most important - enjoy your vacation. I'm actually headed to PA on Friday for a week to see my Dad, do yard work, and check on the senior (he's 84). Second - I read a variety of genres - I don't do a lot of fantasy or westerns (if they exist). Not big on romance either. But plenty of literary authors and thrillers. Throw in non-fiction, and a lot of what the heck. Have a good week

Heather M. Gardner said...

Oooooh! Enjoy your vacation! I hope you do something really fun and memorable! You deserve it!

I read, watch, and listen to whatever interests me. I don't stick to genres at all. I'm very open to reading new stuff, so I don't get stale!

I'm surprised I don't know more of that dino trivia. I'm sure one of them is the animated dinosaur movies that I hated SO much. Crying dino movies. Ugh!
And one does sound like Land of the Lost. Not sure about the others.

Thanks again for the mention! You're so awesome!

Heather

dolorah said...

My favorite reading genre is fantasy, but I'm an avid thriller reader too. I think I will read almost anything if it is interesting enough. I write in multiple genre's too, but that is because I write mostly short stories. I think it is good to read outside your preferred genre to keep your writing voice unique. I've complained frequently in writer's groups that an author sounds cliche, and the response is pretty much: but everyone writes like this in this genre.

Liz A. said...

I'll read anything that piques my interest. I find that I prefer certain genres, and that's where my attention usually is. But if I come across something in a genre I'm not familiar with, I'll give it a try.

I'm not a big dinosaur fan, so I don't know the movie trivia (although one of those was The Land Before Time, right?).

Roland D. Yeomans said...

I love reading books containing the letters of famous writers like Hemingway, Twain, Steinbeck (I did a series of posts where he and I exchanged letters from different phases of his life to my present), Faulkner etc.

I like psychology texts, science texts, philosophy texts -- I am an ecletic reader of fiction from mystery to horror to fantasy to Sci. Fi. Best of luck with the Turkish sales -- maybe a fan will send you some Turkish coffee! :-)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Michelle, thanks and welcome to high fantasy.

Funny, that made me chuckle.

Cherie, you got two!

Dean, agreed! And RiffTrax is a must.

Marie, I read every comment! That's coo you've written a book. What's it about? And sorry, what was your question? I must have missed it...

Anne, than you! Wow. I just try to remember our purpose here - to make life better for others.

True desk, I will review it Monday!

Joanne, enjoy your vacation!

Heather! You're welcome. And I will enjoy my vacation.

Donna, and that is not a good thing.

Liz, you are correct!

Erin L. Funk said...

Interesting question about whether or not people are genre purists. I tend to read a lot of different genres. I can't imagine sticking to just one, seeing as I like variety! As a writer, I think reading across the board is helpful, no matter what genre I'm currently writing.

Unknown said...

Congrats on the Turkish translation of Cassa Fire. Is this your very first translation?

Best wishes,
Anna

Unknown said...

Sweden does not have a strong tradition of Sci-Fi, but I might be able to look under a few stones for you.

Anna

Unknown said...

Tuesday 9th June 2015
Dear Akex,
Please don't remove my name from the list because I missed the iwsg date. I had to write a paper for the university. It was a must-do-thing.
Anna

Unknown said...

Tuesday 9th June 2015

Dear Alex,

I need to read more carefully. Of course it is your first translation. Congratulations!
I had written a post for June's iwsg but forgot to push the 'publish' button.

Best wishes,
Anna

Anonymous said...

Primarily, I write fantasy and paranormal and yeah, I read a lot of those, but I can and will read anything. Hand me anything, and I'll read it. Not to say I'll LIKE it, but I'll tough it out in that case.

Empty Nest Insider said...

I enjoy different genres, but I've been so far behind in reading anything lately. It will be exciting to see how your book looks in Turkish!

Julie

Belle said...

Hi Alex. I answered your comment on my blog. Thanks so much for stopping by.

Anonymous said...

I read really, really widely. I write Fantasy and steampunk but actually only a small portion of what I read falls into those categories. It's not a conscious decision but I like to read different things. I also tend not to like sticking with genre tropes, or if I do I like to spin them on their heads, so I'm not too worried about knowing the genre tropes inside and out.

Karen Peterson said...

I thought I knew a lot of dinosaur movies, but yikes.

The only one I know is that the #4 is The Lost World.

Helena said...

I read pretty widely, but so far my novels have been pretty much historical, with one thriller and a sci fi that's still in the works. One thing about writing without looking to get published (at this point) is that I'm simply writing whatever I want and to entertain myself.

Congratulations again on the Turkish translation! How very exotic. May your novels be published in many languages.

Misha Gerrick said...

Wow today I'm comment number 100. I'm just nailing the comments these days. ;-)

I read and write very widely, since I'm more focused on the story than on any specific genre.

Heading over to your guest post.

And a huge congrats on the translation! Super exciting.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Hi Alex, its super thrilling to see our books in another language. Very happy for you and also excited. This is just the begining, more translations will follow. I have your book on my Kindle, have managed to read a little.

Sandra Cox said...

Many congrats to Vanessa. The cover is one of the best I've ever seen.

S. L. Hennessy said...

I just think that it's so cool you're being translated!! What an awesome author moment!

Angela Brown said...

Congrats to those with new releases. Always awesome :-)
I think the answer to one of the trivia is Land Before Time but that's the only answer that immediately jumped to mind.

As for reading and writing, I am not a purist. I love variety so that comes across in what I read and write, from contemporary to steampunk and everything between.

Laura Clipson said...

I read quite a lot of different genres; it just depends on what I feel like reading on the day.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Roland, if only I drank coffee...

Anna, it is the first! And thanks - whatever you find, I'll send to my publisher. Appreciate it. And don't worry, you are still on the list. Just save that post for July.

Thanks, Belle!

Karen, you are correct!

Helena, sometimes it's good just to entertain yourself.

Rachna, I hope so!

Angela, you got it.

Thanks everyone!

Unknown said...

Tuesday 9th June 2015

Dear Alex,

My June IWSG post is alive now, late as it is. Just click on my name, Adornments for Dreams, Sweden, and you will get there.

I want to write a new post for July. Maybe I'll write about translating texts/stories/novels from English into Swedish.

Take care!
Anna

J.H. Moncrieff said...

Congrats about your book getting translated into Turkish! I'd want a copy too. That's super exciting, and a huge honour.

I read tons of different genres. Oddly enough, the genre I read most (if it can be called a genre) is non-fiction. Historical accounts, true crime, travel memoirs, biographies, food memoirs...I read tons of non-fiction.

I used to have the opposite problem--I rarely read in my genre, because I couldn't find many horror writers I liked. Thankfully, now that I've discovered Samhain, that is changing. Catherine Cavendish is fantastic!

Maurice Mitchell said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Maurice Mitchell said...

I've never heard of Rock and Roll Nightmare and I'm glad. It sounds as wonderfully bad as Manos the Hand of Fate.

Susan Kane said...

I can not answer the trivia questions because it seems they all have the same actors (not Doug McClure) and plots. Dang.

Dang tootin' we gonna be at Jurassic World, on Saturday!

My genre is diverse now adays.

SC Author said...

I don't think I'm a genre purist - but I fear I may be turning into one D: CONGRATS on the translation, by the way! That's incredible

Unknown said...

I'm such a book genre whore.... HA! I read everything! If I were to get right down to it, I guess the majority of what I read is in my genre... but only like by 51%. The rest of the 49 is all over the place. I like it that way... I obviously enjoy my genre and like to know "what's hot." But at the same time, I find pleasure reading all kinds of genres and styles. It's like ice cream... why have one flavor when you can have 'em all?

Wow. All kinds of metaphors going on here.... hehe.

Yolanda Renée said...

Alex, I read your post via email and forget I haven't commented. I can't wait to see Jurassic World!

I think it's exciting that you'll have a copy of your book in a foriegn language. So cool!

Stephanie Faris said...

I think my books are only available in English at this point. I don't think Turkish is an option!!! That's awesome. Congrats.

Anonymous said...

I just read the guest post on Patricia Stoltey's blog. What a great attitude! I wish more people in the world were focused on giving, rather than getting. Of the movie trivia, I only knew #3 and #4. I'll have to check out the others. I mostly read fantasy, but I do branch out and read other genres every so often to see what's out there. Enjoy your vacation!

Powdered Toast Man said...

I have been waiting over ten years for another Jurassic Park film. I am soooo excited. Is it wrong that I find chris pratt sexy?

Scribbles From Jenn said...

I am definitely NOT a genre purist. I write M.G., but I read anything that strikes my fancy. I enjoy it and it stretches me to be a better writer as I read above and below my target audience.

Deniz Bevan said...

Congratulations again on the translation!

Loni Townsend said...

I know #3! Of course, it's the only one I know. Land Before Time! Random fact, that's where I first picked up Cera's name (for my character from the Cera Chronicles, This World Bites).

I'll read whatever genre. I spent a while reading only books by other bloggers, and we all know how spread out those genres are. :)

SpacerGuy said...

Thanks for the Rifftrax tip Alex. My primary Genre is science Fiction although I do enjoy a good action thriller and comics too. Remember Beano, Dandy and Beezer? I'll definitely be trekking out to see Jurrasic World, I love all creature great and small, LOL.

Indah Nuria Savitri said...

loks like a great list of choices...I'm interested to read the Avalon..love the cats..

Kimberly said...

I think it's just so cool that your book is being translated into another language!

I read mostly Sci/Fi and Fantasy but will also read other types of books too. :)

Liz Blocker said...

I read a wide variety, and I tend to go on kicks - I'll read literary fiction for months, then switch to only fantasy for a while, then chick lit or sci fi or mystery. The only stuff I don't read a lot of is romance and horror - but I'm open to all of it! The more, the better :)

Jeffrey Scott said...

I read and write all sorts. I prefer to read sci.fi. but I like to write comedic stories. I have a YA series I've been writing and though it starts off fairly neutral, it soon picks up the sci.fi. genre as well as its comedy genre. Yea, I'm all over the place usually.

Sandra Cox said...

Congrats to Patricia on her release.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Anna, I visited!

JH, glad you are finding authors you like. I guess you wrote horror at first because you couldn't, huh?

Maurice, I've seen it - it's bad!

Susan, he is in one of them!

Julie, I like the analogy.

Lori, thank you! And I share your sentiments.

PTM, no, it's just odd.

Loni, that's rather wild.

Spacerguy, barely.

Thanks, everyone!

ilima said...

Yay for Turkish! I did a google translate of my book description on my foreign publisher's website and it was pretty hilarious.

Belle Wong said...

I'm genre all the way, Alex, but I kind of read all the genres (well, most of them, anyway). Congrats on the Turkish translation! And yay for a new release in a new universe!

Nicola said...

I like to be kept on the edge of my seat (or pillow - as I tend to only find time to read when I hit the sack)when I read, so I stick to the action adventure, crime thrilling genre. I get bored easily and dislike certain genre. Nevertheless, over the years I have read all sorts. I don't think it matters what genre you read. The main aim for an author is that the reader enjoys the book and so read what one enjoys reading. Hope you had a great vacation!!

Leovi said...

I like to change gender to read books, but when I read a good book I remain engaged in this genre for a while.

Shannon Lawrence said...

Oh wow, double congratulations for being the first book they're publishing! I'm afraid I don't know dinosaur movie trivia. I read all genres, but do tend to get into a rut when I find a new author I like.

Murees Dupè said...

Exciting times for you, Alex. Congrats. I definitely read a variety of Genre's. As long as the story is interesting, I will read anything. My mood determines what I read. Have a great weekend.

Unknown said...

Is number 3 the land before time? I still love those movies :)

Tara Tyler said...

i like your secret to marketing success, but i think only someone as positive and encouraging as you could do it so well!

the question of genre - i read and write a lot! so i call my niche - adventure! adventures in chick lit, sci fi, thriller, fantasy - those are my tops, plus i like steampunk, paranormal, and humor - i'm glad you've broadened your reading repertoire!

and i'm excited to see PIXELS! should be this generation's Ghostbusters!

klahanie said...

Hey Alex, dude,

You seem to be all over the place. How is that possible? Cloning machine working overtime? :)

I read a wide variety of genres. My own genre is also varied. Never stick to one theme in my case.

Thanks for all the links and info which I thoroughly skimmed. Now then, have a bit of a relaxed time out, Alex.

Gary

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - a little space guy ninja mentioned he was having a holiday - happy times - you deserve that break - enjoy .. you've achieved much ... cheers Hilary

Intangible Hearts said...

You'll soon be a celebrity in Turkey! How cool is that? LOL

Tyrean Martinson said...

I'm definitely not a genre purist in reading or writing!
Hope you have a great extended weekend - sorry I missed visiting until now (Thursday).

Patsy said...

I read different genres. When I'm writing, I prefer to read in genres other than the one I'm working on so it gives my mind a break.

Bushman said...

I like to read horror and some sci-fi. I love adventure, but there isn't much of that out there unless your 12 years old.

Fantasy not so much. Everyone wants to be a teenage vampire nowadays.

For some strange reason, I am a courtroom junkie too. I have a vast collection of Grisham.

Sherry Ellis said...

I still think it's so cool that your book will be published in Turkish!

I read all kinds of genres. Mostly because I get review requests, and they cover all genres. I think it's nice to read different things. It might actually make you a better writer.

Mason T. Matchak said...

I'm pretty much the opposite of a genre purist. I find things a lot more interesting when they mix stuff up, because I've found that's often where the magic happens. Look at "Firefly", for one - it didn't invent the sci-fi western, but it pretty much codified it.

As for reading, I know I should read more than just fantasy, and I try to - I've been reading a little more sci-fi lately, and one of the books in my to-be-read file seems to be more of a modern family saga with some supernatural elements.

There's also a Japanese-inspired steampunk novel, but hey, genre-blending. ^_^

Dixie@dcrelief said...

Alex - Turkey? I'd settle to get my jibe translated into decent English. Ha!
BOTB will miss, you should you go - but you have a life to live - enjoy! This battle was fun for me.

kimlajevardi.com said...

Congrats to the writers with books coming out. Yay!

Jurassic Park doesn't excite me as much as it does some, but my son loved it. He saw it with friends last night. Since he never saw the original, too young, it's a new world for him.

It will be exciting when you hold your translated book in your hands or computer. :) A milestone of sorts. Congrats again!

Ava Quinn said...

Congratulations on the Turkish deal and the great review!!

Stephen Tremp said...

Jim Henson genital pals? Hilarious! Worth stopping by just for that!

Blue Grumpster said...

I'd be a happy guy if I could stick to anything, Alex.

P.S. Guess who's in my show today...

Toi Thomas said...

Jophiel seems like it might be a good read.
I think I know three of the trivia, but I'll keep quite and wait to see the answers.
As for reading, I wish I was a purist; I have a feeling it's a lot simpler. I read and write in multiple genres, but I'm trying to narrow down my writing genres.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Emilyann, yes!

Thank you, Tara.

Gary, the clone machine is always pumping out clones.

Tyrean, any visit is appreciated!

Mason, Firefly made it cool.

Blue, appreciated that!

Thanks, everyone.

LynNerdKelley said...

How cool that the new Turkish publisher chose your book for its very first publication! That's awesome. I hope you get a copy of it.

I've been out of the loop from moving. I love our new apartment and so do our dogs! Just wanted to stop in to say hi.

Unknown said...

I still have to see Jurassic Park! and I am SO excited about the Cassa series! I will mention it on Friday! yay!

nashvillecats2 said...

Good luck to you on your books also Jeremy with his T-Shirt.
Have a lovely break.
Yvonne.