Fic

November 1, 2013

In a series of essays edited by Jamison (English, Univ. of Utah), professional and amateur writers come together to dissect and discuss the social phenomena of fanfiction (fic)--stories that dip into already existing creative worlds to expand or alter these works for the entertainment of fans. Using examples that range from Stephenie Meyer's Twilight to the TV show Supernatural to the members of the musical group One Direction, authors include actress Amber Benson (Among the Ghosts) and actor Chris Rankin (known for playing Percy Weasley in the Harry Potter films), among other fic writers who describe their forays into the medium that garnered them Internet fame. Sprinkled among the book's detailed history and terminology is comfort for those still carrying scars from the intensely battled Harry Potter shipping wars (readers argue over which characters should end up together). For those looking to put pen to paper, there are do's and don'ts for crafting a true-to-character smut scene, and for readers who feel like they've been dropped into a sea of fanspeak, there is reward in learning how writers such as Cassandra Clare (City of Bones) and E.L. James (Fifty Shades of Grey) got their start. VERDICT This definitive volume offers a rich immersion into fanfiction and is for anyone who has both loved and lived for the unique community of fandom, as well as for those who desire a look into this world or who are curious about the unexpected impact fic is having on the literary realm.--Kate DiGirolomo, Library Journal

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