If you’ve checked out the site, and the blog, you’ll know my passion for science. So, for me, writing science fiction is a natural extension of that passion. As far as I’m concerned science and science fiction go hand-in-hand. And, I firmly believe they drive each other in a convoluted closed loop.
The more that science advances, the larger the base of material a writer has to build upon. Applying their imagination, and pushing the boundaries of what we can dream of. In turn, that stimulates the minds of the readers, (especially the young ones) laying the ground work they will use when they contribute to society by conducting research and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The cycle continues.
Where am I going with this? Well, I just wanted to bring to your attention a few podcast sites that I’ve been following for a while: The Drabblecast, Escape Pod, and PodCastle.
Drabblecast and Escape Pod are Sci-Fi sites, while Podcastle is mainly a Fantasy site, but sometimes that line is not too clear. The people behind these sites typically put up an audio version of a short story, sometimes with multiple voice actors, sound effects and music. They typically run about 30 minutes, but occasionally may run longer. Some of these stories are Hugo Award winners/nominees, and some of the authors are very well know in the publishing world. You might be amazed at some of the work that comes from people who are new to the industry.
I have no affiliation with these sites, so there is nothing in it for me to promote them other than the pleasure of knowing that I’ve turned someone else on to some great story telling. The bottom line is that there are some really great Sci-Fi short stories being written and nicely produced. Of course, not every story will be meet your expectations, but that’s life. I’ve found that even if I didn’t care for the story, the narration or production makes for an entertaining listen.
Check them out if you get a chance. I think you’ll be glad you did. There are extensive archives on each site, so you’ll have a lot to listen to. (The links to these sites are also on the side of the page under Links.)
Till next time,
RC Davison