In case you missed it, the Tim Burton cult classic Frankenweenie is getting a fresh new look and wide release in theaters ala Disney on Oct. 5th.  Just another example of Shelley’s enduring grip on the imagination (and pop culture Click Frankenweenie to view the trailer.

I’m a member of a wonderful group called the Columbus Foundation, which supports a number of charitable efforts (large and small) here in Central Ohio.  They have been kind enough to provide me with links to two organizations that help foster the talent and interests of young authors.

One is the Thurber House, which is located in Columbus, OH.  They are interested in increasing public awareness and support for the Young Writers Studio and the Fable Writing Workshops, which are programs designed to help develop the interests and talents of young authors.

Kenyon College also conducts writing workshops and has a scholarship program to benefit students interested in writing.

Please check out and support these organizations.

The ongoing saga of the issues of justice and free speech related to the Russian band Pussy Riot hit a new crescendo in the media yesterday and as a publisher it has captured my attention.  If you are not familiar with the story I’d suggest you read this Yahoo News article before continuing.

Prior to the international outcry over their incarceration and trial I had never heard of this group; in fact I still haven’t even heard one of their songs.  What interests me (aside from the issues of human rights and justice) is what this story has to tell the world about the role of freedom of speech within a society.

Key powers in Europe and the Unites States have decried the ruling against the band members as unfair.  The ruling has touched off a series of global protests, garnered protests from a growing number of musicians, and again placed the role of government (in this case the forces of Vladamir Putin) with regard to the issue of free speech front and center.

Why has this case received so much attention and why is it relevant to the world at large?  World history is replete with countless examples of how a society is impacted when freedom of speech is subjected to trials such as this.  When voices are silenced (whether you agree with the band’s message and method in delivering it or disagree, they have been silenced) it lessens the discourse of a people and, therefore, a society.

My intent with this short post is not to advocate that no limits be placed on free speech or to judge the band’s choices; rather, dear reader, I would like you to simply pause and consider how important the free exchange of thoughts and opinions are to our lives and in creating viable, healthy, and sustainable societies.

Enceladus Literary is now a featured link in the ebook section of The Midwest Book Review. Find new books, reviews, and all they have to offer by following the links.

I’m not endorsing a product here but since we’re all about ebooks thought this might be a piece of news worth sharing. Click the link to go to the news story on Yahoo News: Barnes & Noble cutting Nook tablet prices.

Hello.  Took a while but things are finally getting up and running.  Have to say that self-publishing is definitely not for the faint of heart and my hat’s off to everyone who chases this dream (any creative dream).  The process of releasing my first book, from initial idea to actual publication, took eight years.  It’s been an interesting ride with so much more to come.

I’m hoping to make this blog not just about my experiences but also a place where others can share there own experiences and insights into the world of publication and writing.

Looking forward to telling more about my journey, continuing to test the marketing waters, and learning more from other people’s experiences.

Pete