Hello Everyone,
In celebration of SSI’s 25th anniversary, I’ve chosen to feature a number of veteran writers going back to SSI’s very beginnings, including stories from one Founding Parent, Chris Menefee, and a Flashfic from Vicki Werkley. Leading the list is the very first story ever publicized in Blue Lights in October 1987, mere months after SSI’s formation. We also have reached a significant milestone this time out: the Archive has surpassed 100 stories, 95 under the official SSI How Novel banner. One story by Patti Hemeleski garnered kudos from a reader within hours after posting.
We’ve heard from one writer who is already working on an entry in our “Star Return” Writing Contest, and also have some “definite maybe’s” out there so far. Join in on the fun! Think about one character that fascinated you and tell us what happened to them! Details of the contest are posted at: http://archiveofourown.org/collections/STARMAN_Writing_Contest.
Enjoy the stories!
“Visit From Home” by Rhonda Tylinski, 1987, 22,094 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/428370
The first STARMAN story publicized in Blue Lights. A chance encounter along a lonely road in Montana brings Paul and Scott an unexpected companion. For several weeks they live together happily until a curious magazine editor makes an inquiry that brings Fox to their peaceful haven. Fox is always amazed when help is given to the alien by others, but this time, that help comes from a completely surprising source.
“She Calls Herself Lisa” by Vicki Hessel Werkley, 851 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/428346
A writer tries to befriend a sad, lonely painter in the artist community of Mendocino, California.
“Sounds of Silence” by Lynda Sappington, 1988, 7725 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/427008
Paul and Scott discover a new form of communication-American Sign Language-and help a recently deafened woman regain her self-confidence. (Lynda also writes Harry Potter stories under the penname, “Abraxan” on FanFiction.net)
“Ratings” by Lynda Sappington, 1994, 9878 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/426754
Crossover with Quantum Leap. Sam leaps into the body of an ABC programming executive in May 1987. Can he save Starman?
“One Dark Stormy Night” by Lynda Sappington, 1990, 2054 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/426739
A terrified George Fox is warned by an apparition to leave Scott alone.
“Starscapes – How It Could Have Been” by Patti Hemeleski, 1989, 2017 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/426222
An alternate universe view of the pursuit and capture in the Starscapes episode. What if Wayne and Jenny had managed to help Paul and Scott escape?
“Adolescence and Iridescence” by Christine Menefee, 1999, 4881 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/425892
Paul and Scott hang out at a weekend cabin in the Virginia hills owned by a friend of Liz Baynes. Studying the many birds making their habitat in the vicinity, Scott learns something about adolescence, while Paul marvels at nature's variety. Is Wylie really a bird watcher?
“The Stereoscope” by Christine Menefee, 1993, 1417 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/414329
Shortly after their discussion of the "local option", when Scott tries to convince Paul that Scott doesn't have to attend school, father and son visit an antique shop, where Paul becomes fascinated by the images in an old stereoscope. The experience brings them closer together, and enroute to a magical place. (Editor’s Note: this story occurs after the episode “Like Father, Like Son”.)
“Define Politics” by Christine Menefee, 1998, 915 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/413504
Starman and Scott consider the nature of 'politics,' in this brief conversation.
“Random Acts of Kindness” by Selma McCrory, 1996, 6170 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/413509
Paul is tapped to cover some of the Olympic Games in Atlanta. While he's there, Fox captures Scott, and is on his way to get Paul as well. Unfortunately for Fox, a pair of extraordinary teenagers is attending the games as well, and get involved in the whole thing.
“Jewel of the Sea” by Selma McCrory, 1989, 2597 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/414117
A young woman and her roommate get in trouble when she aids Paul and Scott.
“Fleeing” by Selma McCrory, 1999, 263 words. http://archiveofourown.org/works/414138
After "Starscape", Jenny is on the run again.
Blue Lights!
Chuck S.