KarenninaPosa Hi folks! MG writers are on tonight for #mglitchat. We're talking sci-fi #mglitchat -9:02 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk My kids are not cooperating. Don't they understand bedtime needs to happen BEFORE #mglitchat? -9:03 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa I'm here. I can start if off. Ice breaker (as if we need it? :) )... What's your favorite SF book? Writer? #mglitchat -9:03 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa #mglitchat I find it interesting how many subsets of Sci-Fi there seem to be. -9:03 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa Monica Hughes "The Tomorrow City" has always been a favourite of mine. Don't think it's in print now though. :-( #mglitchat -9:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk My early favorite was C.J. Cherryh. #mglitchat -9:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz Uh, I can't remember the last MG sci-fi I read. #ohtheshame #MGlitchat -9:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @AnshaKotyk but C.J. Cherryh doesn't write for children? #mglitchat -9:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel Def. a number of subsets of SF out there #mglitchat -9:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @rachelnseigel I'm not as well-versed on sci-fi as I'd like to be. But I'm writing one now (time-travel). Need to brush up. #mglitchat -9:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa What falls under the sci-fi category? Does speculative fiction go over or under? #mglitchat -9:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @pattyjansen no she doesn't, I have to admit I never read much MG as a kid. But Cherryh's books were my favorite. #mglitchat -9:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @AnshaKotyk although I'm also a massive fan of C.J. Cherryh #mglitchat -9:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KDuBayGillis @KarenninaPosa Speculative fiction is an umbrella term for Sci Fi, Fantasy and Horror. #mglitchat -9:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk YES RT @rachelnseigel: @KDuBayGillis @KarenninaPosa Speculative fiction is an umbrella term for Sci Fi, Fantasy and Horror. #mglitchat -9:06 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @AnshaKotyk there WASN'T much MG when I was a kid (guess that shows age ;-) oops #mglitchat -9:06 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa I've always loved Time Travel. It's a funny one though- many genres claim it! ;-) #mglitchat -9:06 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa A Wrinkle in Time is sci-fi, right? It's fascinating how newly-discovered science at that time is woven into that story. #mglitchat -9:06 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @pattyjansen yeah, hitting the big 40 this year... there certainly wasn't much. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa Interesting question. Seen it defined as Sci Fi and Fantasy. \ #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @elissacruz They are hard to find! #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson Shanghaied to the Moon by Michael J. Daley is an MG sci fi, some new ones out there, need to think!!! #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KDuBayGillis Two I'm reading/have read that I think have sci-fi elements: Tanglewood Terror and The Only Ones #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @AnshaKotyk I find it rather annoying that sooooo much of MG is fantasy You'd be forgiven to think there was nothing else #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk I've read that a story isn't considered Sci-fi unless SCIENCE plays a major role in the plot, Take it out and it's not Sci-fi. #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @KarenninaPosa Got to it before me, Wrinkle in Time is hands down my favorite! #mglitchat -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @SBRodgers1 @AnshaKotyk You probably want to go to the website 4 Tweetchat, and use Hashtag #MGlitchat. That should help. :-) -9:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @hpinski Whew, I thought it was just me. (Well, it is, since I don't gravitate to it, either, but still...) #MGlitchat -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @AnshaKotyk I sometimes refer to SF as 'Futuristic fantsy' #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @rachelnseigel That brings up the question: What's the difference between sci-fi and fantasy? #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KDuBayGillis Wonder if @KateMessner would say her new Eye of the Storm is sci-fi? #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @SBRodgers1 @AnshaKotyk Or open up hashtag #MGlitchat in Hootsuite or Tweetdeck if you use them. -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson @AnshaKotyk you can call it sci fi/fantasy if it isn't heavy on the science #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski I have been searching for MG Sci-fi so tweet away w/ titles, please! #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen Science Fiction is not necessarily Science Fiction, tho it usually attaempt to be realistic e.g no magic #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa Sci Fi has a grounding in reality- Fantasy doesn't. At least that's been my def. #mglitchat -9:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @hpinski For MG sci-fi, Wrinkle in Time has to be on top of the list. Or near it, at the very least. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa Dystopian for example is generally considered to be a sub-genre of Sci-Fi. #mglitchat -9:09 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @rachelnseigel although Star Wards defies that definition :-) but yeah I agree #mglitchat -9:09 PM Nov 10th, 2011
coachhays64 " @elissacruz Uh, I can't remember the last MG sci-fi I read. #ohtheshame #MGlitchat" Wrinkle in Time & I go blank. Maybe should write some. -9:09 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa Follow-up question: What elements definitely make a story sci-fi rather than fantasy? #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KDuBayGillis Would WHEN YOU REACH ME qualify as sci-fi given time travel elements? #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @pattyjansen True. Space travel is generally considered Sci-Fi, but Star Wars is more Space Opera. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @coachhays64 I wrote some for that reason, to read to my kids #MGlitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz Ooh, I think Larklight by Phillip Reeve is considered science fiction. I really loved that book, because it was so quirky. #MGlitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson there are a lot of MG sci fi Star Wars books, plus Simon Haynes-Hal Junior: The Secret Signal #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA Science fiction has to have a science element, and if the science element were removed, there would be no story. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @KDuBayGillis I think so, absolutely. LOVE love love that book. #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Z@deegarretson yES, Where is Simon tonight? #mglitchat -9:10 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA At least that's the classical definition of science fiction. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @rachelnseigel I haven't thought of dystopian as a sub-genre of sci-fi. What if there's not a lot of science in it? #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Brucewriting Favorite mg scifi of all time is Phillip Reeve's Larklight series. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KateMilford @KDuBayGillis I have trouble putting When You Reach Me in sci-fi or fantasy, though I love the book. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @karensandlerYA Yes, it's the classical def of Sci-fi, but I wonder if it's still used. #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @rachelnseigel space opera is also considered Science Fiction ;-) confusing #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @rachelnseigel oh dear, I'm confused. Space Opera? #mglitchat -9:11 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz But, then again, Larklight is probably considered steampunk. Is steampunk under the sci-fi category? #idunno #MGlitchat -9:11 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA BTW, if I can trumpet Tu Books tonight, my fellow author, Greg Fishbone (@tem2) has a great, funny MG SF book, GALAXY GAMES. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel Yeah, is time travel Sci-fi if it's magical rather than scientifically explained? #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @KarenninaPosa Wikipedia does a reasonable job explaining the subgenres #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Brucewriting @elissacruz Isn't it so much fun? #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @Brucewriting Jinx! I just said Larklight, too. Love love love that series. #MGlitchat -9:12 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa Dystopian is a future reality- a possibility of what could happen. I think few genres have tidy definitions. #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski Good question RT @elissacruz: Is steampunk under the sci-fi category? #idunno #mglitchat -9:12 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @pattyjansen Thanks. Will look up dear ol' Wikipedia ASAP #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa LOL! Sort of a soap opera type story in space. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @hpinski It can be, but definitions are kinda pedantic anyway #idunno #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @hpinski my immediate gut reaction is yes, steampunk is sci-fi sub genre, but realy need to check wiki #idunno #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA @AnshaKotyk No, time travel that's magically accomplished would be fantasy. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk I don't think it is. I think a time machine is sci-fi. Then there is historical time travel too. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @rachelnseigel space opera = epic fantasy in space #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @rachelnseigel I think it's a perfect example of how a book can be subtle about its sci fi or fantasy elements. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA A fantastic SF time travel is the MANY COLORED LAND series by Julian May. Not MG, though. #mglitchat -9:13 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 Steam punk is more like an element or backdrop to a story ... but steam punk spaceship sounds awesome #MGlitchat -9:14 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa I would think so. Technology = science? RT @elissacruz: Is steampunk under the sci-fi category? #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KateMilford Yes, but then my question is, does a book that has fantasy elements or sci-fi elements have to be that genre? #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA I'd say steampunk is SF rather than fantasy. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Brucewriting @elissacruz I've also heard some call Larklight spaceopera since it is so funny. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KateMilford Or is it for example coming of age with fantastical elements? #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk RT @AnshaKotyk: What would we like to see more of in the way of SF in MG? #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski If steampunk counts, I'll add the Hunchback Assignments by Arthur Slade to the list. #mglitchat -9:14 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @rachelnseigel does it matter, they sit on the same shelf in the bookshop #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA @rachelnseigel Meaning, could you mix them? SF with fantasy? #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @rachelnseigel "have to be?" Shrug--hard & fast genre definitions are for queries and marketing depts. Irrelevant, otherwise. :) #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 10th, 2011
mimicross Can't join you just now but wanted to say hi *hello!* I'll be back :) #mglitchat #NaNoWriMo -9:15 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @pattyjansen #mglitchat My understanding is that Steampunk is Sci-Fi. -9:15 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @AnshaKotyk more realistic Science Fiction that shows kids that technology is cool! #mglitchat -9:15 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 sure, a story about a wizard in space would be rad #MGlitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson another MG sci fi - JACOB WONDERBAR by Nathan Bransford #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @karensandlerYA I think we often mix genres- Sci-Fi Adventure, Historical Romance, etc... So sure- Sci-Fi/.Fantasy. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss coming in late on the convo so am lost ... all this genre labeling could have something to do with it ;) but I get lost easy #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk YES!!! RT @pattyjansen: @AnshaKotyk more realistic Science Fiction that shows kids that technology is cool! #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz Oh, I thought of another sci-fi title! #yayme I think the Edge Chronicles might fall under this category. Those are cool books. #MGlitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA The only caution with mixing genres is where it would be placed on the book shelf. If there's confusion, that could be a problem. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @rachelnseigel When I sell it @ my bookstore, I say it's a beautiful story about friends, w time travel & quantum physics in it. #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa Oh yeah! RT @deegarretson: another MG sci fi - JACOB WONDERBAR by Nathan Bransford #mglitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @elissacruz I thought they were animal fantasies. Like Warriors. #yayme #MGlitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 i think steam punk is usually sci-fi, because it's about the science of the gadgets. #MGlitchat -9:16 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Brucewriting So what about dystopias, I think of them as a subset of scifi, take City of Ember or the Giver for example. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski Area 51 intrigue please! RT @AnshaKotyk: RT @AnshaKotyk: What would we like to see more of in the way of SF in MG? #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @PippaBayliss We're talking about Sci-Fi tonight, and having a hard time nailing it down. #MGlitchat -9:17 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KateMilford I love that! I'll have to remember it! I play up the exploration of boy/girl friendships in middle school. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA @rachelnseigel I've seen books where the worldbuilding in a fantasy book is very SF-like. Everything has a precise reason. #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @hpinski oh, yes, please, UFO's and such! Fun! #mglitchat -9:17 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA But generally speaking, if it has magic, I gotta say it's fantasy, not SF. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski RT @AnshaKotyk: @hpinski oh, yes, please, UFOs and such! Fun! #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @karensandlerYA There are a lot of similar traits. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 10th, 2011
MarinaLostetter RT @pattyjansen: @AnshaKotyk more realistic Science Fiction that shows kids that technology is cool! #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @PippaBayliss Any favorite SF books? #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @karensandlerYA I agree with that! Magic is not sci-fi. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @rachelnseigel Edge Chronicles and animal fantasy? Hmm...could be. But lots of sci-fi-ish technology, too. Again, #Idunno. #MGlitchat -9:18 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @rachelnseigel It's funny--when I'm handselling to kids, I tend absolutely not to talk genres, but about story specifics. #mglitchat -9:18 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA I voraciously read everything Ray Bradbury wrote, back in the day. Much of his stuff is very MG. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @elissacruz It does, though I 've always put talking animals in fantasy. On the other hand.... #Idunno #MGlitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa So is anyone here currently writing sci-fi? *raises hand and looks around* #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @KateMilford Yes, let's try not to pigeon hole our SF, what is our favorite aspects of it? #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA @KateMilford I think that's the best approach. I don't think kids are as focused on genre. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @karensandlerYA Loved Farenheight 451 in high school. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson still thinking, here's another new one- The Resisters by Eric S. Nylund #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @KarenninaPosa I have written a MG #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @karensandlerYA Oh, yes, yay Bradbury! #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski InterestingRT @KateMilford: @rachelnseigel...when handselling to kids, I tend absolutely not to talk genres, but story specifics. #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Brucewriting What about Alcatraz and the Evil Librarians? Sci fi or fantasy? #mglitchat -9:19 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss @AnshaKotyk Yeah! Ender's Game is a classic, but I've read more Steampunk which FEELS like sci-fi to me :) #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 I personally am writing a YA sci-fi #MGlitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA I'm writing SF, but I write YA and not MG. (TANKBORN) #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @karensandlerYA I absolutely love Ray Bradbury #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @rachelnseigel Hmm, and I'd list them more as an alien race than talking animals. #idunno #MGlitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson *raises hand too* I'm writing sci fi, in fact I have an agent calling me tomorrow to talk about it, *fingers crossed* #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 with plans for a series of middle grade sci fi ... in the very near future #MGlitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @deegarretson Excellent! Keep them coming! #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @AnshaKotyk Lot of kids think they don't like sci fi & fantasy, but will say they read and loved HP, for example, or Ender's Game #mglitchat -9:20 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @deegarretson oooh fun! Much luck! #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk @KateMilford I love that Sci-Fi examines possible future or way of life. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @deegarretson Good luck! #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Jenn_Rush @KarenninaPosa I just sold a sci-fi MG! Futuristic. Lots of fun to write. #mglitchat #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA @deegarretson Oh, best of luck with that. It's so hard to talk with an agent and not feel all giggly and jr. hi. Take a breath. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @PippaBayliss Enders Game is def one of my all time faves #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford Also, I think my fave reads in either genre are still more about characters, relationships, identity than magic or tech. #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @deegarretson crosses fingers for you! #mglitchat -9:21 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA @Jenn_Rush Congrats! I love SF! #mglitchat -9:22 PM Nov 10th, 2011
ArgyleSweatrClb RT @KateMilford: Also, I think my fave reads in either genre are still more about characters, relationships, identity than magic or tech. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @elissacruz Hmmm.. I'll have to look at them again. #idunno #MGlitchat -9:22 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @Jenn_Rush Congratulations! #mglitchat -9:22 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski Yes! RT @KateMilford:..my fave reads in either genre are still more about characters, relationships, identity than magic or tech. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel Yes, I love how SF can play on our current cultural taboos and point out the issues we have. #mglitchat -9:22 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss wotz awesome is that we can bring in elements that add zing to the feel of the story & not worry about blurring the boundaries #mglitchat -9:22 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 I find the best part about writing the sci-fi is the fun tech and the characters present day reaction to it. very fun #MGlitchat -9:22 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KateMilford I deal mostly with teacher librarians- they are a bit more anxious for specific genres. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA @KateMilford Yeah, sometimes writers don't develop their characters as they should in SF/F. Readers must still be able to identfy #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson thanks all! and here's another one that's really upper MG - THE TOMORROW CODE by Brian Faulkner #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen This >RT @AnshaKotyk: @rachelnseigel Yes, I love how SF can play on our current cultural taboos and point out the issues we have. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford Great worldbuilding (including great tech) won't carry the story if it lacks really brilliantly written conflict/characters. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
ArgyleSweatrClb RT @KateMilford: Great worldbuilding (including great tech) won't carry the story if it lacks really brilliantly written conflict/characters. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Jenn_Rush @karensandlerYA Thanks! I love it too. I'm hoping sci-fi in MG makes a huge comeback in the next yr or two. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @rachelnseigel Me, too, and I just read them! But now I'll have to re-read and see which is a better genre. Maybe both? #Idunno #MGlitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
kellybarnhill One of my favorite MG sci-fi is ONLY YOU CAN SAVE MANKIND by terry pratchett. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk It's a safe venue. Can be very metaphorical. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
LianaBrooks RT @kellybarnhill: One of my favorite MG sci-fi is ONLY YOU CAN SAVE MANKIND by terry pratchett. #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik Hey everyone, tech in lit tonight? #mglitchat -9:23 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @karensandlerYA Also, especially w some subgenres (looking at you, steampunk), it's easy to get carried away with set dressing... #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa Since definition of genre seems blurred, is it better to identify the work as sci-fi or speculative fiction when querying? #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @john_zeleznik Sci-fi this week. :-) #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk RT @Jenn_Rush: @karensandlerYA Thanks! I love it too. I'm hoping sci-fi in MG makes a huge comeback in the next yr or two. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @john_zeleznik Sci-fi, actually. #MGlitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @KateMilford and too much world building can be a turn off. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @karensandlerYA ...and not pay enough attention to plot and characters and story. :) #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
kellybarnhill @KateMilford And I think that's what's so fun about sci-fi for this age. MG readers are non-balkanized. They like great STORIES. #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @KarenninaPosa don't mention (sub)genre; the agent will work it out themselves #mglitchat -9:24 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @hpinski Admittedly, my first drafts ALWAYS tend toward too much worldbuilding. :) #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson @KarenninaPosa I queried mine as sci fi, but I knew it fit the classic definition #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik Oh, I'm working on a YA scifi right now. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @kellybarnhill ABSOLUTELY agree. #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 i like the idea of tech seeming like magic. #MGlitchat -9:25 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @KateMilford but them you have a really well developed world for your characters to play in. :) #mglitchat -9:25 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz I just read Scott Westerfield's Leviathan, which is YA. Is there any MG titles similar to that? #MGlitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik I DO have a MG adventure that I'm in planning stages that has sf elements though. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
geceosan RT @john_zeleznik: Hey everyone, tech in lit tonight? #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk RT @KateMilfordAnd I think that's what's so fun about sci-fi for this age.MG readers are non-balkanized. They like great STORIES. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
geceosan RT @kellybarnhill: One of my favorite MG sci-fi is ONLY YOU CAN SAVE MANKIND by terry pratchett. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @pattyjansen Interesting. I thought they'd want to know the genre up front. Maybe not sub-genre but genre at least. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Jenn_Rush @SBRodgers1 I do too. And if it's futuristic, you can do just about anything with it. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @SBRodgers1 Clarke's third law. :) #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski Yes! What's the quote...no diff between science and magic. RT @SBRodgers1: i like the idea of tech seeming like magic. #mglitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @SBRodgers1 Tech is considered to be magic still in many places. Actually, prior to 20th cent. ppl often thought sci was magic. #MGlitchat -9:26 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik There's got to be room for a good old fashioned space opera in MG, right? #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @hpinski Clarke's third law. Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @KarenninaPosa I've never stated genre. If you talk abt SF-ey things, that's just a waste of words. They get it ;-) #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss @elissacruz I liked Arthur Slade's 'Hunchback Assignments' but I think they've mkted it as YA. I'd say it's more upper MG - #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
MelissaRoske Hi all! Newbie to #MGlitchat. Is there a specific topic? -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @john_zeleznik sadly, not really, although the tide may be starting to turn #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @PippaBayliss @elissacruz We sell them mostly to 11-14 yr-olds. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @KateMilford That's it! I had that on a post-it for the longest time, should have remembered! #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @MelissaRoske Sci-fi in MG tonight. Welcome! #MGlitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik @PippaBayliss I LOVE those books. More steampunk though. #mglitchat -9:27 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @PippaBayliss Huh, I might have to pick that one up. Thanks for the rec. #MGlitchat -9:28 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa I prefer the tech (or other-world-liness) to blend in, and not distract from the story. I just want to know tech works, not how. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik @pattyjansen I just think of the success of the Star Wars Clone Wars property and the success it is having. #mglitchat -9:28 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 who here finds themselves really researching the fringe sciences when creating these sci-fis? #MGlitchat -9:28 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Could we see more success with SF in MG or YA? your thoughts? #mglitchat -9:28 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @PippaBayliss Really, YA? Hunchback felt so mid-grade to me. #mglitchat -9:29 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @SBRodgers1 what do you mean by fringe? #MGlitchat -9:29 PM Nov 10th, 2011
MelissaRoske @AnshaKotyk Many thanks! (I could have figured that one out, though... duh, and mea culpa!) #MGlitchat -9:29 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @SBRodgers1 absolutely, it's those fringey things that make science fascinating! String theory is my fave #MGlitchat -9:29 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz So, my questions, WHY is Sci-Fi so underrepresented in MG? That's the million dollar question, I know. #MGlitchat -9:29 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski Absolutely. RT @AnshaKotyk: Could we see more success with SF in MG or YA? your thoughts? #mglitchat -9:29 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa I love the idea of tech in sci-fi. Like in Chris Lynch Cyberia- would luv a chip 2 let me understand my dog. :-) #mglitchat -9:29 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @elissacruz good question. I ended up putting the book on Amazon #MGlitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss @elissacruz also Oppel's Airborne series. It's also more upper MG/tween but is catagorized as YA ... seeing a pattern here #mglitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @elissacruz Yes, why? could it be marketing? Could it be that fantasy became the breakout for MG (HP)? #MGlitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @elissacruz I wonder if some of it has to do with the assumption that it requires a lot more exposition/explanation? #mglitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA I think humor in SF helps in MG. Of course, humor, period in MG seems like a good idea. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 fringe like weird accounts, ufo lore, etc. this sort of research? #MGlitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Jenn_Rush @AnshaKotyk I think the success is already there in YA. It needs to trickle down to MG. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @elissacruz Very hard to write convincing MG, and hard to write convincing Sci Fi. put both together and you have real challenge. #mglitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @elissacruz It's interesting. I think Fantasy was greatly underrepresented until HP hit. Maybe there needs 2 b a big sci-fi hit #MGlitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski RT @AnshaKotyk: @SBRodgers1 absolutely, its those fringey things that make science fascinating! String theory is my fave #mglitchat -9:30 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @SBRodgers1 you look at that sort of stuff all-the-time ! #MGlitchat -9:31 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @elissacruz Or possibility that adults writing fr kids perceive them 2 have different relationship to tech than they (adults) do? #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock #mglitchat saw a blog post countering some of the arguments about the lack of MG-SF, but they missed the point I was making. -9:31 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik I think of rollicking space adventure type book would be fun...very Flash Gordon-esque. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @spacejock what was that point? #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @SBRodgers1 I love to dig for science stuff that not a lot of people know. Fun! #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA The thing is, SF in YA is almost exclusively dark and handles subjects that wouldn't be as appealing for MG. #mglitchat -9:31 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Brucewriting Good night mglitchaters I'll see you in the future. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen RT @karensandlerYA: The thing is, SF in YA is almost exclusively dark and handles subjects that wouldn't be as appealing for MG. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @spacejock Hey there. We were wondering where you were. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @karensandlerYA Agreed I think SF for MG would need to be lighter than dystopian... imo #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
Jenn_Rush THIS. So True. RT @hpinski Very hard to write convincing MG & hard to write convincing Sci Fi. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik Ray guns and space ships and things like that. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @karensandlerYA But sci-fi has roots in optimism--spirit of discovery, exploration, etc. Shouldn't have to be exclusively dark. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen and you, personally, I really hate that so much of SF (all ages) is very bleak #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @john_zeleznik Have you read Larklight? It's very much a rollicking space adventure type book. #MGlitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk @karensandlerYA Though there is some MG dystopian now- like Emma Clayton The Roar. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @hpinski Convincing SF is one of the criteria I used when searching for other MG SF out there. Hence discarding so many titles. #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @john_zeleznik yes, bring back the fun in SF #mglitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 Not all the time LOL I have a very busy business life LOL!!! But i find interesting ideas behind the lore. #MGlitchat -9:32 PM Nov 10th, 2011
coachhays64 @elissacruz I am a scientist & have the hardest time trying to write a hard science fiction MG story. Where do I draw the line? #MGlitchat -9:33 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @Brucewriting Good night. Thanks for stopping by! #MGlitchat -9:33 PM Nov 10th, 2011
karensandlerYA Fun chat, but I need to get to the gym. #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford That might be part of the problem...long thought formulating... #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski RT @AnshaKotyk: @john_zeleznik yes, bring back the fun in SF #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @coachhays64 don't take the 'hard' bit too seriously #MGlitchat -9:33 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @karensandlerYA Glad you could stop by! #mglitchat -9:33 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford 1) early roots of sci-fi had a lot of optimism. 2) recent uses of tech=more dark & frightening 3) mg requires some optimism #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa So what makes convincing sci-fi? That's the challenge. How do writers tackle it? #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik @hpinski I'm a big fan of more fun in our stories. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @KarenninaPosa Yes, sorry I'm late. I was busy writing Hal Jnr 2 and missed the start of #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @spacejock interesting! #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik @AnshaKotyk I'm a big fan of more fun. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @coachhays64 Good question, but I'm not sure I'm qualified to answer it. Anyone else know where to draw line btwn science and SF? #MGlitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @KateMilford Absolutely agree. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford Therefore it's less easy for current generation of writers to view it/write about it optimistically. #mglitchat -9:34 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 i think there is always room for comedy, no matter the genre #MGlitchat -9:35 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KateMilford I agree. That's what I was thinking- and that there is genreally less hope for the future and more fear. It seeps in #mglitchat -9:35 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @KateMilford so we need optimistic sci-fi for MG? #mglitchat -9:35 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski How could one not be...and also space operas. :) RT @john_zeleznik: @hpinski Im a big fan of more fun in our stories. #mglitchat -9:35 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock Writing SF for MG is the best excuse to miss #mglitchat -9:35 PM Nov 10th, 2011
MelissaRoske @elissacruz Thanks for hosting #MGlitchat. I will drop by again! -9:35 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik The Star Wars prequels missed one major elements of the originals: Han Solo. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @KarenninaPosa I think there are a lot of reasons to try. Kids will grow up inundated with tech. Not a bad idea to give them... #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
ArgyleSweatrClb RT @KateMilford: Therefore it's less easy for current generation of writers to view it/write about it optimistically. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
ArgyleSweatrClb RT @KateMilford: That might be part of the problem...long thought formulating... #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson I found that even if the subject is dark and the adventure scary, if there is optimisim and some lighter moments, it works #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @spacejock We were asking for MG titles, and Hal Jr. came up. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss snork! RT @john_zeleznik: The Star Wars prequels missed one major elements of the originals: Han Solo. #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @MelissaRoske Please do! We're here every Thursday 9pm ET. Thanks for stopping by! #MGlitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @john_zeleznik Shhh!!! Don't give George Lucas any ideas! ;-) #mglitchat -9:36 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @pattyjansen @coachhays64 #mglitchat Agreed - Hard doesn't mean difficult or technical, just accurate w/ a focus on science. -9:37 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @kareninnaposa ..Positive outcomes & futures to look toward, images of exploration & growth that aren't all negative/politicized? #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @john_zeleznik I for one am in the "there is no Star Wars w/out Han Solo" camp. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 so here's a tech question ... r kids starting to use electronic reading devices yet? i-pods, kindles etc? #MGlitchat -9:37 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock RT @KateMilford: 1) early roots of sci-fi had a lot of optimism. 2) recent uses of tech=more dark & frightening 3) mg requires some optimism #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @SBRodgers1 The latest nook tablet is being marketed with them in mind. #MGlitchat -9:37 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa @spacejock The computer in "The Unwanteds" was kind of a Hal Jr. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa Me too. RT @hpinski: @john_zeleznik I for one am in the "there is no Star Wars w/out Han Solo" camp. #mglitchat -9:37 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen for writing 'hard' SF for kids, look at their school science books, and take that as cue for your worldbuilding. Don't overdo #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 10th, 2011
deegarretson sorry, have to go! enjoy the rest of the chat. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @SBRodgers1 Think our readers have completely diff relationship to tech already than we do. My kids will be a different species. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @deegarretson It was good to have you here, good luck! #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford Or so my sysadmin husband tells me. But then, I think he's a different species, too. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @SBRodgers1 Been reading much more about kids who r enjoying using iPads to read and download books- but more tween than kid. #MGlitchat -9:38 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @deegarretson Thanks for stopping by! See you next week. #mglitchat -9:38 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @SBRodgers1 That is a whole 'nother chat topic, but in a nutshell, a few do but it hasn't taken off with MG-aged kids. YET. #MGlitchat -9:39 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 maybe soon the market for mg e-books will sprout wings and fly #MGlitchat -9:39 PM Nov 10th, 2011
coachhays64 @pattyjansen Use enough science to build on but not enough to make heads spin. Mutations instead of DNA methylation aberrations. #MGlitchat -9:39 PM Nov 10th, 2011
ArgyleSweatrClb RT @KateMilford: Or so my sysadmin husband tells me. But then, I think he's a different species, too. #mglitchat -9:39 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @SBRodgers1 yes, please. :) #MGlitchat -9:39 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @KarenninaPosa Hal Jnr, as opposed to the other 999 SF MG titles out there ;-) #mglitchat -9:40 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @coachhays64 @pattyjansen And appeal to their imaginations. #MGlitchat -9:40 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 My ears are burning. Thanks, @KarenSandlerYA #mglitchat -9:40 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik So, we need a MG book about a young Han Solo-ish dude for MG....running off to my write in my idea notebook. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski New tech/devices make writing sci fi much more interesting, i.e. #transmedia. #mglitchat -9:40 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @hpinski But could also date them much faster. #transmedia #mglitchat -9:40 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski Lol! RT @john_zeleznik: So, we need a MG book about young Han Solo-ish dude for MG..running off to my write in my idea notebook. #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa So let's see. Challenges in writing sci-fi for MG: need to make it convincing, optimistic. What else? #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski Interesting point! RT @rachelnseigel: @hpinski But could also date them much faster. #transmedia #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @hpinski I kind of think tech in sci-fi has to be something out of Future World from Epcot. #transmedia #mglitchat -9:41 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @KarenninaPosa Avoid gadgetry that will date it. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik @KarenninaPosa Adventure. Jedi may not crave these things, but MGers do. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @hpinski If you're writing in the far future, our current tech might as well be 18th century. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @hpinski future does not nec mean future tech. It could also mean future societies #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 Tech in MG lit is a moving target. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @KarenninaPosa ugh. This beautiful SF convo is being trumped by a dirty diaper... i shall return. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @rachelnseigel I meant devices to spread story, not devices used in the story by characters. Multi-medai storytelling. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @spacejock @hpinski I find too that future has to be much farther ahead then it used to be. #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @hpinski I had fun with 'old tech week' in Hal Junior, where they discuss obsolete comms (Morse, Semaphore, Email) #mglitchat -9:42 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik @hpinski ANd if you steal it from me, well...nothing. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @KarenninaPosa Must be fun too. Not dry and boring and overly focussed on science. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @hpinski Like Patrick Carman's books- Skeleton Creek, 3:15, etc.. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa Tech in sci-fi has to be better, higher, more hi-tech than what's coming in the next few years. Does that raise the bar? #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss I've always with SF as futuristic, where Steampunk is alternate history. Kids are prolly more blaze about tech gadgets: #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 Weren't there a series of Young Han Solo novels? Or am I thinking of Young Indiana Jones? #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @spacejock Email is obsolete? :( #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @PippaBayliss But incorporates technology that couldn't have existed in that time. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @pattyjansen Yeah--the sci fi I enjoy reading as an adult doesn't really deal in actual tech, so much as societies. #mglitchat -9:43 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss ... and so aren't so easy to impress or excite with SF concepts. Steampunk is cooler. #mglitchat -9:44 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @KarenninaPosa 'real' hard SF is much harder to write than--say--fantasy bc you need to know your tech #mglitchat -9:44 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KateMilford @pattyjansen Which comes back to the question of if Dystopia is sci-fi. #mglitchat -9:44 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @rachelnseigel Or something that is an alternative to Epcot. AKA steampunk or similar. #MGlitchat -9:44 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @rachelnseigel You will never get me into a debate about labels. :) #mglitchat -9:44 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski You couldn't write current tech into a book, it changes daily! I meant tech as a way of distributing story x-media, #transmedia #mglitchat -9:45 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @rachelnseigel I agree. Used to be that 50 years into the future was fine. Now it's in the hundreds. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss Yep. A lot more fun to read!RT @rachelnseigel: @PippaBayliss But incorporates technology that couldnt have existed in that time. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @elissacruz Yes! That works too. #MGlitchat -9:45 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 to stay relevant the technology would have to be significant, #MGlitchat -9:45 PM Nov 10th, 2011
WriterRoss @KarenninaPosa Not that I am complaining (well, maybe I am a bit), my e-mail inbox is relatively quiet in wake of FB and Twitter. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa I was a fan of Quantum Leap on TV but laugh that it was set in 1999. That was far future in 1985ish. #mglitchat -9:45 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @KarenninaPosa Relax, if you're still around in 2000 years you can probably have some robot invent email for you. #mglitchat -9:46 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss Juxtapositions are the way to go ... sorry, am I having a conversation with myself? #mglitchat -9:46 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 I'm hoping the manuscript I'm writing in 2011 isn't technologically out of date by 2012. :D #mglitchat -9:46 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @tem2 If it is, pitch it as historical fiction ;-) #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 i know 10 years ago the idea of touch computer screens on paper was unbelievably high tech ... now we have it! #MGlitchat -9:47 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @PippaBayliss I'm listening...please continue. :) #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz It might be easier to write SF if the tech is an alternate version of the tech we have. Less chance of dating the book, anyway. #MGlitchat -9:47 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @rachelnseigel What about Doctor Who and his Deus-ex-screwdriver? #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa What's the most common science in mg sci-fi? Space? Time-travel? Robots? #mglitchat -9:47 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss @tem2 This is a huge prob for us as writers. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @spacejock LOL! The early ones do seem a bit dated now. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa RT @elissacruz: might be easier to write SF if the tech is an alternate version of tech we have. Less chance of dating the book. #mglitchat -9:48 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @elissacruz does it really matter that much if SF is dated? It can be a good story nevertheless. Ppl are still reading Heinlein #MGlitchat -9:48 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @pattyjansen @elissacruz We like 2 say a good story is what matters, but I find with my customers, how current tech is matters. #MGlitchat -9:49 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik @KarenninaPosa @pattyjansen Retrofuturism. The vision of the future from the pass. Futurama-esque. #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa @elissacruz Or take something we have and modify it- imagine it at the next level. #mglitchat -9:49 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 we have to remember the target audience and keep them interested. new tech is cool, tech they already have ... not so much #MGlitchat -9:49 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss LOL - I thort I might be off-topic!~ RT @KateMilford: @PippaBayliss Im listening...please continue. :) #mglitchat -9:50 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @KarenninaPosa I love robots. So many interesting plot possibilities. My first MG novel doesn't have them, but they arrive in 2 #mglitchat -9:50 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @pattyjansen I suppose not, but, there are dated books out there that kids aren't reading anymore because they're dated. #MGlitchat -9:50 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss Cool RT @john_zeleznik: @KarenninaPosa @pattyjansen Retrofuturism. The vision of the future from the pass. Futurama-esque. #mglitchat -9:50 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @pattyjansen Most MG readers prefer current tech, unless dated tech is part of the appeal. Eg., use of tapes in 13 Reasons Why #mglitchat -9:50 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @elissacruz I think a certain amount of dating is inevitable, regardless of genre #MGlitchat -9:51 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan Ooo, a #mglitchat on MG science fiction? Yay! -9:51 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 Robots, space travel, and time travel -- each one opens up a huge can of worms into the story. #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock I had to make my 'father" in book one work in robotics #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @pattyjansen by "appeal", I mean hook #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 Are robots people? What rights do they have? #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @rachelnseigel Robots with AI are still way beyond our current tech. When they exist, I'll buy one to write my novels for me #mglitchat -9:51 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @tem2 Did anyone read Eager? It was like I-Robot for kids, and worked beautifully. #mglitchat -9:52 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @devafagan We're nearing the end, but please join us anyway. We need more MG sci-fi chat. #MGlitchat -9:52 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel oh, i need to add this to my list! #mglitchat -9:52 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @tem2 A fascinating question (robot rights), and I've got five novels out of it so far. Again, endless possibilities #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @spacejock I'd be happy with a robot maid to do all the housekeeping. Then I'd have time to write! :-) #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @tem2 exactly a great way to poke at our own cultural issues #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 now what about sci-fi for girls ... i remember a distinct lack in this category #MGlitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa We're almost to the end. Prob last question: How's the market for MG sci-fi? Are you optimistic? #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 @spacejock Do you own the books written by an AI, or does the AI have its own copyright interests? #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @SBRodgers1 Perhaps it's for us to write? #MGlitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk You totally do- it's an interesting question- if Robots can think and evolve, are they human? #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @KarenninaPosa optimistic, cautiously, yes, but the market at the moment is crap #mglitchat -9:53 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 @KarenninaPosa I want MG SF to be the next big thing. Can we make that happen? :D #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @SBRodgers1 oooh! sci-fi for girls! Yes, please! Putting that on the idea file. #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 the cylons would say yes #MGlitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa @SBRodgers1 Patricia McKissik Clone Codes! #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk YES!! RT @tem2: @KarenninaPosa I want MG SF to be the next big thing. Can we make that happen? :D #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss Creating an original twist to all things SF is the trick: making it light, funny and optimistic is the challenge for MG. sigh. #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski Yes, very. RT @KarenninaPosa: Were almost to the end. Prob last question: Hows the market for MG sci-fi? Are you optimistic? #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa Good question! RT @tem2: @spacejock Do you own the books written by an AI, or does the AI have its own copyright interests? #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @SBRodgers1 cylons *giggle* #MGlitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz Anyone read The Clockwork Three by Matthew Kirby? It's part sci-fi, part fantasy, part historical fic, and completely cool. #MGlitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @SBRodgers1 Cylons are awesome. #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @AnshaKotyk @tem2 @KarenninaPosa Need a big movie. #mglitchat -9:54 PM Nov 10th, 2011
coachhays64 @KarenninaPosa Time travel probably easier to use, so I'd say time travel is most common. How about time-traveling space robots? #MGLitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @elissacruz I loved it! #MGlitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @KarenninaPosa Re market - pessimistic. #mglitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 @coachhays64 I have movie rights to sell... :D #MGLitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @rachelnseigel Yes, probably... movies help. #mglitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski RT @PippaBayliss: Creating an original twist to SF is the trick: making it light, funny, optimistic is the challenge for MG #mglitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss RT @SBRodgers1: the cylons would say yes. LOL. Why are all the best characters already been 'done' ... groan. Who can top cylons? #mglitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa which needs a book first. :) RT @rachelnseigel: @AnshaKotyk @tem2 @KarenninaPosa Need a big movie. #mglitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan I have a MG scifi book coming out next week, so I am trying to be optimistic, hah! @KarenninaPosa #mglitchat -9:55 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @spacejock pessimistic? The market for MG SF has nowhere to move but up #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock I don't know if pessimism is warranted. Self-pub is on the rise, which will change the market climate for SF #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @elissacruz I have. Really enjoyed it, although what do you consider to be the sci-fi element? #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @KarenninaPosa @AnshaKotyk @tem2 But an original Sci-Fi movie for kids could hit big, and then create demand 4 books. #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @elissacruz Not that I'm getting into a category discussion...cause I said I wasn't... :) #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa I agree! RT @pattyjansen: @spacejock pessimistic? The market for MG SF has nowhere to move but up #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @AnshaKotyk @spacejock & I are trying that avenue #mglitchat -9:56 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock #mglitchat this week is SF in MG. Related giveaway! Use coupon code CX78T on smashwords for free Hal Junior: http://t.co/IssqYCd4 -9:56 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 though i don't know if kids should watch the new cylons LOL kinds risque #MGlitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @devafagan Title please! #mglitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @KateMilford The automatron. Which, I suppose, is more steampunk, but still... #MGlitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan THE GIRL WITH THE SILVER EYES could be considered MG sf for girls @SBRodgers1 #mglitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @KateMilford Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. :) #MGlitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @elissacruz @KateMilford How about Hugo Cabret? #MGlitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @hpinski CIRCUS GALACTACUS!! #mglitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock already purchased... gotta read it! #mglitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @pattyjansen Yes, market can only go up, but from a tiny, almost forgotten base. #mglitchat -9:57 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 @spacejock Fun! #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @KateMilford Thank you! #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @devafagan oh, i saw that recently! #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @elissacruz Ah. But automatons are real historical things, not fictional. :) #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan @hpinski My new MG sf is CIRCUS GALACTICUS (Nov 15) and is about a girl who runs away to join an intergalactic circus :-) #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen I've just started a giveaway of my SF MG on LibraryThing. DM if you want a copy. No obligations #mglitchat -9:58 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @spacejock Excellent! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 @devafagan Looking forward to that. A good compliment to my GALAXY GAMES. #mglitchat -9:59 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @devafagan Sounds like a cool idea! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @elissacruz But scientific in nature--so pay no attention to me. :) #mglitchat -9:59 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @devafagan sounds like fun! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @devafagan Sounds like super fun! #mglitchat -9:59 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock RT @pattyjansen: I've just started a giveaway of my SF MG on LibraryThing. DM if you want a copy. No obligations #mglitchat -9:59 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski @pattyjansen Excited to check it out! #mglitchat -10:00 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @KateMilford Yes, but I thought that particular automatron ventured into the sci-fi area with the heart. #spoileralert #MGlitchat -10:00 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Thank you to everyone. This has been a wonderful chat about Sci-fi in MG fiction. You guys rock! #mglitchat. -10:00 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan @AnshaKotyk Thank you! It was definitely fun to write! #mglitchat -10:00 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen @AnshaKotyk thanks for the chat #mglitchat -10:00 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 I wish I'd been in this chat from the beginning. It was fun! #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan @KarenninaPosa @spacejock Thank you! I hope readers will think so! #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik I was just thinking about some other ideas: hiding the alien is timeless, right? Mostly contemp with some SF. #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
SBRodgers1 so much fun, well this canadian is gunna go walk her dogs in the cold :( #MGlitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @rachelnseigel I was just going to mention Hugo Cabret. Is is sci-fi? Maybe. Also, coming to movie screen, too. #MGlitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa We're wrapping up tonight's chat. Thanks for making it awesome! Transcript will be up at http://t.co/T1Um1pEz #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @elissacruz I thought the heart pushed it solidly into fantasy! How funny! #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
spacejock @AnshaKotyk Just sorry I missed half of it! #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
hpinski I don't know what's better, the chat or the list I now have of new MG Sci Fi to read! Wonderful chat, thanks everyone! #mglitchat -10:01 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan @tem2 Me too! I just randomly checked twitter and found a topic near and dear to my heart! #mglitchat -10:02 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 Don't know that Hugo Cabret is SF. Automatons of that type did exist, though not quite as elaborate. #mglitchat -10:02 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @KateMilford Yes, I suppose it did that, come to think of it! So hard to categorize that book, methinks! #MGlitchat -10:02 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa See you next week for Religion in Middle Grade Fiction, hosted by @rachelnseigel and @elissacruz. 9 pm ET #mglitchat -10:02 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @pattyjansen Def. thanks for coming! #mglitchat -10:02 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @tem2 we should have the transcript up soon. #mglitchat -10:03 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KateMilford @KarenninaPosa Wow, I'm totally there for that. :) #mglitchat -10:03 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @tem2 You can come next week (or any Thursday 9pm ET). We have fun every week, write MG people? #MGlitchat -10:03 PM Nov 10th, 2011
PippaBayliss I learned heaps - thanx so much everyone. C U next week. #mglitchat -10:03 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @spacejock some is better than none. :) #mglitchat -10:03 PM Nov 10th, 2011
pattyjansen I shall now continue writing my very dark 18+ post-apocalyptic fantasy o_O #mglitchat -10:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 @elissacruz Thanks. I'm usually not home in time but happened to get back early tonight. #MGlitchat -10:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa Time flies quickly during #mglitchat. Got some new titles to add to my TBR, and some ideas to boot. #mglitchat -10:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
elissacruz @tem2 Well, glad you could stop by for part of it, at least. #MGlitchat -10:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 But MG SF is my thing! :D #mglitchat -10:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
john_zeleznik @pattyjansen And I'm working on my MG young Han Solo but not Han Solo novel. #mglitchat -10:04 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @pattyjansen Have fun (or maybe not ;) ). Thanks for stopping by! #mglitchat -10:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan Is it okay to post links to other resources on mg sf here? Places folks are talking about it? #mglitchat -10:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @john_zeleznik @pattyjansen Love Han Solo. Can't wait! :-) #mglitchat -10:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
rachelnseigel @devafagan Sure! #mglitchat -10:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
KarenninaPosa @devafagan yes, please! #mglitchat -10:05 PM Nov 10th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @devafagan That would be awesome. :) #mglitchat -10:06 PM Nov 10th, 2011
coachhays64 @tem2 Time Traveling Space Robots Vs. The Victorian Clockwork Automatrons. Sounds like a 50's Sci-fi feature. #MGLitchat -10:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan Okay then! There's a new blog focusing on YA and MG sf here http://t.co/T1stlFkG #mglitchat -10:07 PM Nov 10th, 2011
tem2 Check out my guest post on writing SF for young readers on the SFWA blog from last month. http://t.co/fqiyrt0v #mglitchat -10:08 PM Nov 10th, 2011
devafagan And on http://t.co/rSr0feIh we are hosting some discussions about YA/MG SF this month, definitions and crossovers #mglitchat -10:09 PM Nov 10th, 2011
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