Tag: book-review

Klaatu Barada Nikto: A Nostalgic Look at Sci-Fi, Society, and Earth’s Last Hope

You’ve likely heard the iconic phrase “Klaatu Barada Nikto” from the 1951 masterpiece The Day the Earth Stood Still. This is true if you’re a fan of classic science fiction. This legendary film didn’t just entertain—it left an indelible mark on the genre, inspiring countless creators, including me. My book Earth’s Last Hope carries a parallel to that iconic movie. I didn’t fully realize the connection until the manuscript was finished. Let me take you back to the past. I will show you the worlds that shaped me. You will see how they influenced my writing.

To understand my story, you first must know: I wasn’t a typical child. (If you’ve read my introduction on this site, you’ll already know this.) While I did the usual socializing at school, I hated it with a passion. My peers, mostly, embraced values I couldn’t stand—those of a society steeped in war, violence, racism, and harmful gender roles. I didn’t fit in with beer-crushing antics or “hold my beer” bravado. My real friends were older, wiser, and far more thoughtful. They were the people who encouraged curiosity, creativity, and a broader perspective on life.

These influences, combined with the era’s entertainment, shaped my imagination. Back then, writers infused their work with moral undertones. TV shows like Leave It to Beaver and The Andy Griffith Show taught lessons in kindness and integrity. Movies like Father Goose and The Long, Hot Summer offered a mix of humor and introspection. And then, of course, there was the Golden Age of Science Fiction. The Thing, The Blob, Forbidden Planet—these weren’t just films. They were immersive experiences. They transported you to other worlds while reflecting on our own. The fear, the suspense, the wonder—it was all there. Sci-fi from that era captured your imagination completely. It was like the classic horror scenario. A character walks into a dark closet. You know the chainsaw-wielding villain is waiting. You knew what was coming, but you couldn’t look away.

Recently, I stumbled upon a notebook from my childhood, filled with stories I wrote in cursive. I started writing very early. I spun my own tales inspired by the books I consumed. I was also influenced by the world I observed. Those were the best of times and the worst of times. The Vietnam War was raging. Through the magic of delayed TV broadcasts, I remember hearing actual gunfire from the front-lines. Today, live coverage is commonplace. Back then, it was a chilling glimpse into a world far removed from our own.

Amid this chaos, I sought connection. Ham radio became my gateway to the world, allowing me to communicate with people across the globe through Morse code. In those dots and dashes, I found humanity—the good in people I might never meet in person.

Fast forward to today, and Earth’s Last Hope stands as a reflection of those experiences, influences, and inspirations. My story parallels The Day the Earth Stood Still. However, instead of a towering robot and an unfamiliar alien, it features Samantha—a redheaded protagonist with an extraordinary journey. Her life begins in a precarious situation. Through the magic of Roswell and alien artifacts, she transforms into Earth’s last hope. Samantha’s story isn’t just about saving the world. It explores what it means to be human. Her journey dives into themes of identity, sexuality, and discovery. These elements, while not traditionally associated with science fiction, are integral to the genre because they’re integral to us.

Fans of The Day the Earth Stood Still are welcome to explore my book. It has intriguing parallels with the movie. Samantha’s journey might surprise you, challenge you, or even inspire you to see the world—and yourself—in a new light.

If you’ve ever been captivated by the magic of classic sci-fi, give Earth’s Last Hope a try. If you’ve pondered the deeper questions of humanity, this story is for you. And if you’re curious about where it all began, stick around—I have many more stories to share.

Enjoy the journey,

Scott

(P.S. Don’t forget to click the link and follow along—there’s so much more to come!)

Point Blank: Lessons I Learned on the Wrong Side of a Badge

A Book You Didn’t Know You Needed (But Oh, You Do)

Let me hit you with a question: Have you ever looked back on your life, shaking your head like, What the actual hell was I thinking? Ever had cops point guns at you like you just robbed a damn bank? Or been pulled over for speeding, on a bicycle? If you answered yes to any of that, welcome to the club. And if you didn’t, buckle up, because this book will give you a front-row seat to the kind of weirdness you didn’t know you needed in your life.

Now, take that “what the hell” feeling, crank it up to eleven, sprinkle in a heaping dose of stupidity, and slather it all with dark humor. That’s my life in a nutshell. Well, that, and now it’s also my book.

Point Blank isn’t just a catchy title, it’s basically the theme of my existence. It’s a front-row seat to the absurdity of growing up chasing lizards in Carrollton, Texas, and somehow ending up walking a tightrope between comedy and total catastrophe. And let’s be real—who hasn’t been there?

This book is my love letter to the moments that make life… well, incredibly dumb. It’s a collection of stories, life lessons, and the facepalm-worthy memories that prove one thing: no matter how much you think you’ve got life figured out, you don’t. (Spoiler alert: no one does.) But honestly, isn’t that where the fun is? In the ridiculous, the unexpected, and the holy-crap-why-is-this-happening moments?

So, What the Hell Is Point Blank About?

At its core, Point Blank is a comedic deep dive into life’s dumbest moments. But it’s not just that. It’s part memoir, part roast, part free therapy session (for me, not you). It’s the kind of book you pick up when life’s been kicking you in the teeth, and you need a reminder that you are not the only one out here navigating the chaos.

Here’s a little teaser of what you’re in for:

Lessons I Learned While Staring Down the Barrel of a Gun

Pro tip: Don’t try to argue your case with the cops on the side of the road. Just don’t.

How to Survive a Head-On Collision (And the Bureaucratic Circus That Follows)

Because apparently, getting hit by a drunk driver isn’t enough. Nope, fate has to throw in paperwork, insurance nightmares, and a side of complete nonsense.

The Great Paper Route Fiasco

Picture this: ink-stained hands, 5 a.m. bike rides, and a not-so-charming run-in with the local cops. (Spoiler: they weren’t impressed.)

“Arrest-Me Red” and Other Car Choices I’d Like to Forget

Fast cars, flashing lights, and one particularly chaotic road trip from Miami to Key West that felt more like a cop magnet convention.

Reinvention 101

From engineer to IT guy to sci-fi writer, because apparently, I like to keep my life as unpredictable as possible.

Why You’re Gonna Love This Book

Okay, I get it. You’re probably thinking: Do I really need another book about someone else’s ridiculous life? But hear me out, this one’s different. It’s not just about my life. It’s about our lives.

It’s about the universal stupidity we all encounter—the shared facepalm moments that remind us we’re all just winging it. You’ll laugh (hard). You’ll cringe (probably harder). You might even tear up a little, but only in that holy crap, this is too real kind of way.

Think of Point Blank as sitting down with that one friend who’s been through some serious shit, lived to tell the tale, and somehow managed to find the punchline in every disaster.

Who’s This Book For?

If you’ve ever made a decision so dumb it deserves its own monument, this book’s for you.

If you’ve ever looked at someone else’s life and thought, Well, at least I’m not that guy, this book’s definitely for you.

If you’re a fan of George Carlin’s brutal honesty, Douglas Adams’ absurd humor, or David Sedaris’ ability to find hilarity in misery, congrats—you’ve found your new favorite read.

If you just need a good laugh, a break, or a reminder that life’s most chaotic moments are often the most memorable, this book is 1000% for you.

Where to Read It

Picture this: You’re sitting on the toilet (don’t even pretend you don’t scroll or read in there), flipping pages or swiping through your phone, and suddenly you’re laughing so hard you almost fall off the damn seat. That’s what this book is for.

It’s for the bathroom, the waiting room, the coffee break, the long-ass flight, or those sleepless nights when you just want to escape the madness for a bit.

A Final Word

Point Blank isn’t just a book. It’s an experience. It’s a rollercoaster through the highs and lows, the WTF moments, and the laughs that make life worth living—and retelling.

So here’s the deal: Buy the book. Read the book. Laugh at the book. Share the book. And who knows? Maybe you’ll start seeing your own life in a slightly less serious, slightly more ridiculous light.

Because let’s face it, isn’t that what we’re all trying to do? Find the humor in the madness, make sense of the chaos, and keep moving forward, one hilariously stupid moment at a time.

Go grab your copy of Point Blank. Trust me, your life will be better (or at least funnier) for it.

Then do me a solid, give it a review from where you bought it, or even read it for free on KDP.

“Trim the Tree”

How to Edit Your Stories and ‘Kill Your Darlings’ This Holiday Season.

Critiquing is one of the most important things we do in a writers’ group.

With Christmas almost here in December, I felt inspired to offer a posthumous critique of Irving Berlin’s work.

In case you don’t know, Irving Berlin wrote the movie “White Christmas,” released in 1954. He not only composed the music for the film but also contributed to its screenplay. The film features several of Berlin’s classic songs, including the iconic title track, originally debuting in his earlier work, the 1942 film “Holiday Inn.”

Truth be told, nobody wants to watch a movie with me. Why?

As a storyteller, I dissect movies. Since I penned my first novel, I can’t help myself. I am told by those who know that I should smoke pot before watching a movie so I can sit back and enjoy it.

Since I don’t smoke or do drugs, I guess I will have to be me and watch movies or read books as a solo act.

Like any artist or tradesperson, we learn from watching others and doing.

I went to see a theatrical production of White Christmas last weekend. The film’s soundtrack and other elements were all very memorable. I vividly remember every dance’s choreography and performance. The problem is that I also dissected the play and the film throughout the performance.

If we examine the plot points of the movie, they are:

War Flashback: The film opens with a flashback to Christmas Eve in 1944, where Bob and Phil perform for their fellow soldiers during the war. This sets the stage for their strong friendship and shared experiences.

Post-War Success: After the war, Bob and Phil establish themselves as a popular entertainment duo. They enjoy fame and success in the show business world.

Meeting the Sisters: While in New York, they meet a sister act, Betty (Rosemary Clooney) and Judy (Vera-Ellen), and become romantically involved with them. The sisters are also aspiring performers, which adds to the story’s dynamic.

The Vermont Inn: Bob and Phil learn that their former commanding general, General Waverly, is struggling to keep his Vermont inn afloat during the winter season. They decide to help him by organizing a Christmas show at the inn.

Planning the Show: The duo travels to Vermont with the sisters to put on a spectacular Christmas performance to attract guests and save the inn. They face various challenges, including weather issues and the general’s pride.

Romantic Developments: Throughout the film, romantic tensions build between Bob and Betty, as well as between Phil and Judy. Their relationships evolve as they work together to save the inn.

The Big Show: The climax of the film features a grand Christmas show, where all the characters come together to celebrate the holiday spirit. The performance is filled with music, dance, and heartfelt moments.

Resolution: The film concludes with a heartwarming finale, where the inn is saved, and the characters find love and happiness, embodying the spirit of Christmas.

If you or I wrote a novel with that much Serendipity, no agent would touch it.

If I’d written it, I would have done a better job describing the Haynes sisters and their cousin. Several times, the’ dog-faced boy’ is the comic relief or the glue that binds the sisters’ connection to their army buddies.

What are the odds they all end up at an inn in Vermont that just happens to be owned by General Waverly, whom the guys respect and love?

By the way, army folks help me out. Would you love a commanding officer who puts you in harm’s way?

Why not connect the dots?

How about making the dog-faced boy related to the general, which is how the Haynes sisters got the gig in the first place?

Why am I picking on a show I have loved my whole life?

Within our field, the regrettable necessity of forgoing cherished elements is unavoidable. As a result, all editing options continue to be available. We refer to this as killing our darlings.

Dissecting the movies or books you loved as a child or even today will make you a better writer.

Read, Dissect, Reflect…

As we gather around our loved ones this holiday season, let’s take a moment to reflect on our creative journeys. Just as we carefully select ornaments to adorn our trees, may we also embrace the art of editing, trimming our narratives to shine even brighter.

Remember, every cut you make is a step toward clarity and impact in your writing. So, as you cozy up with your stories this Christmas, don’t be afraid to ‘kill your darlings’ and make room for the magic that truly resonates.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with joy, warmth, and inspiration. Happy editing, and may your words flow as freely as the holiday spirit! 🎄✨

Currently, there are numerous works in progress featuring magic, one of which is a pulse-pounding thriller where a forensic assassin, acting as a hired gun, tracks down villains through dimly lit alleyways and shadowy corners, the city’s heartbeat a constant hum in the background. Make sure to stay tuned for additional details.

Here are the recently penned novels, their covers promising untold stories.

Ephemera Tales of the Fleeting & Profound was just released. This is a book of short stories inspired by prompts from Reedsy.