The Wall of the Dead

Nothing in this world compares to writing and being read.

But experiencing artwork based on something that you've written comes awfully darn close.

Many, many thanks to Evilwarlordgu (is that your real name?) for this incredible piece from one of my personal favorite scenes in Generation Dead. The amount of detail that you put in the Wall pictures is stunning--illustrating many of the photos and scenes mentioned in the book, as well as a whole host of others--you really took my breath away!

But, um, not in a Tommy permanent sort of way. Thankfully. Click on the above image to be able to experience all the fine detail.

Love, love, love Phoebe Phan Art. I've been given permission by a few artists to post some more, but please feel free to send me stuff directly at WatersDan at aol dot com.

The Connecticut Author Trail

When I was first got the invitation to be a part of the Connecticut Author Trail, I misread the email and thought it said "Connecticut Author Trial". I was actually pretty psyched, because I thought that Generation Dead had finally been banned by a library or a school. There's few better ways to ensure that your book remains in print forever than to get banned by some institution of higher learning.

Alas, GD was not banned, but instead I got to be a part of the equally cool Connecticut Author Trail. From the CT Author Trail website:

"The Connecticut Authors Trail consists of a consortium of Libraries in Eastern Connecticut who love our local authors and continue to be amazed at the variety of genres and diverse styles of writing among the authors who live in or are associated with the Nutmeg State. Beginning July 16th, 2009 until September 24th, 2009, we will be inviting local authors to showcase their books and share their stories."

Well, I was invited to be one of those local authors, and I spoke at the small but mighty Janet Carlson Calvert library last month to a congenial crowd of about thirty people and had a blast.

The 2009 Trail ends on Sept. 24 at 6:30 at the Mohegan Sun Casino, when a number of the CAT authors will be participating in an event/signing/tasting--yes, a tasting. The final two CAT authors, Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough are chefs promoting their current new cook book Cooking Know-How and and apparently are making snacks.

The full program runs from 6:30-10:00 and I plan on being there for the whole time. Better come early though because I tend to massacre buffets.

DFW

A year ago today, a hero of mine took his own life. I wrote about it, inadequately,Here and Here.

Celebrate your life today.

For Amy O. and Her Son

A special "Back to School" Greeting from Puddin' Tater Jones!



Here's ole P.T.J. heading out to recess after another delicious meal in the school cafeteria!

Is every one as psyched as he is for another school year? I know I am!