Of course it was inevitable. The great science fiction writer, Bradbury was in his 90s, so while I was not surprised that he passed away on Tuesday, I was saddened.
Bradbury is a writer I have always admired.
He wrote fantastical but accessible stories. I felt a kinship with his
world view. And I adored how he loved the public library with all of
his heart.
Fahrenheit 451
is one of my all time favorite books. I have read it at least 10
times, but I refuse to own a copy. Bradbury wrote the book by feeding
dimes in the pay typewriters at the LA Public Library. As a book all
about the importance of books and reading, I feel like I show solidarity
with his message by reading public library copies of this book.
Also, back in April, I wrote this "Back List Not to Miss" post about Something Wicked This Way Comes.
Many
people have argued that Bradbury is responsible for moving science
fiction into the mainstream. He was one of the first genre writers who
transcended genre and was simply considered...a writer. Current authors
like Neil Gaiman, China Mieville, and Michael Chabon
would not be held up as writers of great literary fiction without
Bradbury first paving the way. They might still be confined to the
fringes as "genre writers."
As readers, lovers of great
story telling, and, for me at least, librarians, we all owe so much to
Bradbury, his vision, his imagination, and his talent. All I want to say
is "Thank You."
Already planned before his death, a new collection of stories inspired by Bradbury entitled, Shadow Show, featuring new stories by authors as varied as Margaret Atwood, Joe Hill, and Jacquelyn Mitchard, is coming out in July. What a fitting tribute to such an amazingly talented man.
Click here for Bradbury's official website.
#HorrorForLibraries Giveaway: Witchcraft for Wayward Girls (with bonus swag)
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It's almost Thanksgiving and to celebrate all we should be thankful for, I
am offering one of the most anticipated titles of 2025. A book I already
gave ...
8 hours ago
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