Flip of a Coin/Issues 001-002

Flip of a Coin is a Harrison Ford zine, which includes fan fiction from Star Wars, the Indiana Jones movies, and other films starring Ford such as Witness, Blade Runner, Heroes (film), The Frisco Kid, and The Mosquito Coast.

It is primarily gen but also includes non-explicit adult het stories.

This zine series began after a similar zine, Facets, ceased publication.

"Flip of a Coin" ran for seventeen issues between 1983-1986.

This page is for detailed information about issue #1 and #2. For information about the zine in general, see Flip of a Coin.

For information about other issues of "Flip of a Coin," see:

Issues 001-002 · Issues 003-005 · Issues 006-007 · Issues 008-009 · Issues 010-011 · Issues 012-013 · Issues 014-015 · Issues 016-017

Issue 1

front cover of issue #1, J.R. Dunster

back cover of issue #1, Scott Lerner

flyer for issue #1

Flip of a Coin 1 was published in 1983 and contains 112 pages

The art is by J.R. Dunster, Scott Lerner, Wanda Lybarger, D.C. Wickes, Wendy Ikeguchi, Betsy Peed, Donna Oakes, Martie Benedict, and Suzy Sansom.

• Hello!, editorial (2)
• A Toast to Innocence by Peggy Barilla ("Toimny Lillerd, an old acquaintance, a bottle of whiskey, and memories.") (Frisco Kid) (3)
• I Call It Luck, poem by Karin L. Zygowicz (Star Wars) (11)
• Deja Vu by Martie Benedict (Blade Runner) (12)
• A Rainbow Above You by D.C. Wickes ("Kenny Boyd and Annie McBride were both trying to hide; instead, they found each other. This feature is another in the series of stories with characters created by Sherry Magee and Wickes.") (Heroes) (14)
• cartoon by Wanda Lybarger (Frisco Kid) (49)
• Reflections on a Medallion by Jacqueline Taero (Indiana Jones) (50)
• The Demise of Willie Bill, or, Journey to Insomnia, filk, by Marcia Brin and Melody Corbett (Journey to Shiloh) (52)
• AnOther by Scheherazade ("A post-"Jedi" tale. An agreement between Hem Solo and Darth Vader?") (Star Wars) (53)
• cartoon by Brad Morris (Blade Runner) (56)
• Starting Again by Paula Truelove ("Halloran returns to Hanover Street with intentions of seeing Margaret.') (Hanover Street) (57)
• Daemon by Ruth Radecki (Indiana Jones) (74)
• Discovery by Sherry Magee ("Annie is away and Ken is left alone with Jenny, the cat.") (Heroes) (76)
• Seaside, poem by Jacqueline Taero (Heroes) (81)
• Kenny's Improvisation Song by Martie Benedict (Heroes) (82)
• Somewhere Outside Los Angeles - January 2020 by D.C. Wickes (Blade Runner) (84)
• Reply to a Conversation by J.A. Berger ("Harry Caul thought it could be no worse. Martin Stett had other plans.") (The Conversation) (86)
• After the Mission (Hanover Street Waltz) by Martie Benedict (Hanover Street) (104)
• "Plus Cea Change..." by Pat Nussman ("Tommy and Avram encounter a school marm that's a real "princess."") (Frisco Kid) (106)
• cartoon by Scott Lerner (Star Wars) (109)
• Notices (110)
• Just Go, poem by Karin Zygowicz (Star Wars) (111)
• cartoon by D.C. Wickes (Harrison Ford) (112)

• 

  from issue #1, Wanda Lybarger ("Blade Runner")

• 

  from issue #1, Wanda Lybarger ("Heroes")

• 

  from issue #1, Wanda Lybarger ("Heroes")

• 

  from issue #1, D.C. Wickes ("Heroes")

• 

  from issue #1, Wendy Ikeguchi ("Indiana Jones")

• 

  from issue #1, D.E. Wickes ("Hanover Street")

• 

  from issue #1, Donna Oakes ("Heroes")

• 

  from issue #1, Wanda Lybarger ("Frisco Kid")

• 

  from issue #1, D.C. Wickes, a riff on I Am Not Spock

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 1

Comparisons between "FLIP OF A COIN, with its soon-to-be-defunct predecessor, FACETS, are inevitable. FLIP is obviously designed to take up where FACETS left off--that is, as a source of stories about and general celebration of the roles of Harrison Ford-and a lot of Ford fen will be watching to see how this new zine measures up to its famous forerunner.

In this first issue, FLIP does very well indeed, particularly considering that it a first issue. Physically, it's a very handsome zine. The attractive J.R. Dunster portrait of Harrison on the cover, printed on a good quality stock, leads into an attractively, if simply, laid out interior with clean printing and mostly-competent art. Unlike FACETS, FLIP is full size, rather than reduced, type, which may or may not be a plus, depending on how you feel about the reduced vs. non-reduced debate. The literary contents, though more uneven than its physical appearance, are easily up to the standard of FACETS, which tended to vary wildly between the well and the execrably written. Actually, this issue's material is somewhat better than the average FACETS, perhaps because the more modest volume of material prevents the good stories from being buried, or perhaps because FACETS' better writers seem to be the ones who've made the switch.

Two stories in FLIP stand out, though for different reasons.

D.C. Wickes' "A Rainbow Above You", though by no means perfectly written, is remarkable for the sensitivity of the human relationships and the sheer drama of its culminating scene. A Kenny Boyd (HEROES) story set in the same universe as Sherry Magee's Kenny stories (in FACETS and SYNDIZINE), it concerns Kenny's trauma resulting from Vietnam, set in the context of a growing relationship with a childhood friend, Annie, who has her own problems stemming from a divorce and lifestyle change. Many fan-created females have the 'feel' of a cardboard character brought to life (such as it is) for the mere purpose of romancing the male character or a tough-woman alter-ego for the author (who can out-drink and out-fight the hero, generally rendering him perfectly superfluous). Annie doesn't have that feel. She's a real person I'd be happy to read about aside from her relationship with Kenny. What I like best is that, like most intelligent women placed into a similar situation, she has doubts about what she's letting herself in for in getting involved with a man in Kenny's mental state. Obviously, this is partially a romance and a very tenderly-drawn one, the growth of the relationship traced in a believable and touching way. But it is also a story about a man pulling himself from a mental slough by taking the hand of another. As I said before, it's not perfectly written. It needs to be longer. Another scene or two Kenny and Annie early on would have given more the flavor of a slowly-developing friendship/love affair. A few scenes alone with Kenny's nightmares would have provided more foreshadowing to the shattering climax-which is both well-written and gripping. The biggest fault lies, perhaps, with the first scene, an almost solid chunk of what-has-gone-before, which bogs the reader down before she gets a chance to become involved in the tale. These are relatively minor problems, though, which some thoughtful editing could have swiftly eliminated. The story itself is very good indeed and made doubly appealing by the fact that it concerns a little-explored Harrison role.

The other story is based on a role few writers would care to attempt: Martin Stett in THE CONVERSATION. Stett is Harrison's most villainous role-a fascinating, manipulatively-evil man, with homosexual undertones and few, if any, socially redeeming qualities. Since obviously most writers who create stories on Harrison's roles like Harrison and thus want to emphasize his more pleasant screen personalities, it follows that this role should be a trifle neglected. J.A. Berger tackles it, however, in "Reply to a Conversation" and succeeds in portraying the snake-like fascination of the character. Stett, like some omnipresent demon, haunts the hapless wiretapper, Caul, through countless changes of residence and masterminds an investigation which plunges Caul into a clever, inescapable snare. Vader and Stett would be bosom buddies; he makes Belloc look like a pussycat. Good villains, however, are just as fascinating for actors as heroes-or perhaps more so-and Berger skillfully awakens the reader's awareness of that fascination. Although the story's pace falters toward the end, on the whole Berger manages admirably in writer about this rather difficult Ford role. Other offerings are less successful, though by no means absolutely awful.

"Starting Over", a HANOVER STREET story by Paula Truelove, illustrates why editors should be cautious about printing their own work. The idea is not bad, but it needs a thorough edit which is not something you can do for yourself. The main female character is an example of a woman who exists for no other reason but to play girlfriend to Halloran. One gets no feeling of a definite personality there and no idea of why Halloran should be attracted to her. The ideas, scenes, and personalities are simply not fully developed enough to make it a good story.

Peggy Barilla's "A Toast to Innocence" (FRISCO KID) similarly could use a heavy editing. The Tommy characterization is good enough, the female character strongly drawn, but the 'point' of the story comes across weakly. What is said in the story really doesn't seem to add up to what happens in the end. The writing itself is facile, but it could use some trimming, and the point of view used switches abruptly in several places, resulting in a jarring change in tone.

I have by no means covered all the territory in FLIP.

There are several other stories, including the single SW story, a charming HEROES vignette by Sherry Magee, a FRISCO KID vignette by Pat Nussman, excellent RAIDERS and FRISCO KID poems by Jacqueline Taero, and some of Martie Benedict's beautiful song lyrics. The art deserves some mention. FLIP is notable for having only one piece of art that I consider below acceptable-the accompaniment to Taero's RAIDERS poem, "Reflections on a Rebellion"; which was clumsy in execution. On the other hand, the same artist did a lovely, evocative Han ilIo for the SW story, "An Other", and that's more typical of the general quality of the art.

Especially notable are Wanda Lybarger's numerous illustrations. In the past few years, Lybarger has developed into one of fandom's top illustrators: she is not only able to catch a likeness, but to bring the actual spirit and motion of a scene into life. Her illos for "Under the Rainbow" are particularly good, as is the graceful Tommy accompanying the Nussman vignette. Also striking is the back cover BLADE RUNNER poster-like design by Scott Lerner. Both design and execution here are bold and evocative.

If FLIP goes on as it has started, it will be something to look forward to for Ford fen, in terms of both stories and art, as well as a nice-looking package, though editing may need more work in the future. Truelove and McAdams, incidentally, intend to put out FLIP quarterly. Which is rather a feat in itself.

Congratulations on the "birth" of your new fanzine! Hope both "parents" are doing well. The first issue of FLIP OF A COIN, of which I hope there will be many, many more, was truly a lovely tribute to Mr. Harrison Ford.

Once I got past the beautiful artwork by Dunster on the cover (it took three days!), my eye was readily caught by the layout of the contents page. I really liked the way you put the character next to the story or poem; it let us know who the work was about at a glance. I especially liked the statement at the bottom of the page That sums up why I'm into fandom.

I read each story and poem and enjoyed all the artwork and I must say, you certainly had some of the best writers and artists to complement your first issue. Really enjoyed the wide variety of characterizations. One could, within the confines of the zine, go from "a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away..." to the exciting and futuristic world of Blade Runners in 2019.

I'm sure all your readers appreciate your dedication in bringing us one of the best fanzines available and eagerly look forward to issue #2. I know I do.

I received FLIP #1 today and I thoroughly enjoyed your first issue. Obviously, a lot of talent, hard work and dedication went into producing this zine which demanded your attention for the full three hours of prime time tonight (sorry, Mr. Wouk). I found a great deal of variety which was refreshing. I particularly enjoyed "A Rainbow Above You," "Toast to Innocence," Scheherazade's short short, and "Deja Vu," not to mention all of the poetry which was superb.

As for the artwork, Wanda's illos enhanced "Rainbow" nicely. The covers were also very nice. And concerning the cartoon on p. 112, although the idea presented was great (so true!), I didn't feel the depiction of Ford was very complimentary. In particular, I found the area around the belt rather daring. Oh, well. No doubt I'll be the only one to pick up on or care about this specific, but I just thought I'd mention it.

Overall, it was a fine issue and a great accomplishment. My hat's off to you!

I was very impressed with issue #1 of FLIP OF A COIN. It's a nice, sturdy zine, very neat and clean, but the contents are what counts, and I remain impressed. I LOVE those cartoons! 'Course I'm a sucker for a good cartoon. I enjoyed all the stories, particularly those by D.C. Wickes and Sherry Magee. I have been following their Kenny Boyd series and have enjoyed them all. I was really happy to find two in the series in your zine. Both are very moving.

Best of luck in keeping to your announced schedule. You have a fine zine, very helpful in keeping this Ford addict happy between too-infrequent films. Keep up the quality, and I promise to be a very faithful subscriber.

Nice job! So much Kenny, Tommy, Rick, Han, David, Indy, Martin, and Willy Bill, a variety no FORDaholic could find fault with, only increasing enjoyment. FLIP, on the whole, is a beautifully organized and artistic composition of Ford characterizations. Each submission had its own brand of excitement and each very professionally handled. I was more than pleased with the outcome. But, if you think there's any way possible you're going to get this fan writer to pick a favorite from your publication, forget it! I'm proud to say, with only a couple of exceptions, all of your contributors are personal friends. I felt like it was "family reunion time" in fandom; a mini-con between the pages of a zine, what great fun! Quick, let's do it again! Okay, I'm back at the typewriter and the next one is coming...I would like to see you be able to make FLIP a quarterly. Good luck and all my support.

The first issue of FLIP OF A COIN has obviously landed heads up! In addition to my delight in finding FLIP so blessedly free of typos, the content was enjoyable and nicely varied and the layout very complimentary to both prose and artwork. Since humorous pieces are usually my favorites, I loved "The Demise of Willie Bill" by Brin and Corbett, "Plus Cea Change" by Nussman, and the cartoons by Lybarger and Morris.

"A Toast to Innocence" reflects the usual high quality of Peggy Barilla's writing. "Starting Again," by Paula, shows her sensitivity to the character of Halloran, and Jean Berger's "Reply to a Conversation" caught Martin Stett's truly chilling presence. I must admit to personal prejudice, though, when I say my favorite pieces were Sherry Magee's "Discovery," "Kenny's Improvisation Song," by Martie Benedict, and all of Wanda Lybarger's illustrations, most especially those for my story. Apart from my obvious fondness for the character of Ken Boyd, my admiration and affection for these three talented women makes objectivity about their work an unreasonable expectation. My thanks to my friend Sherry for letting me work in her universe, and to Martie and Wanda for their wonderful contributions to it.

Also, my deepest gratitude to you two, Paula and Jenny, for all your work in bringing FLIP OF A COIN into reality. The Force is with you—I can't wait till next issue!

Congratulations on FLIP OF A COIN. I think it's going to be a hit. It was everything I have come to expect from fannish publications and a little more besides.

"A Rainbow Above You" was worth the price of the zine alone! Ken Boyd is probably my most favorite Ford character, besides Han Solo, and it's nice to see his life taking a turn for the better. Although he was only on screen briefly in HEROES, D. C. Wickes and Sherry Magee have done wonderful things with him. I have read two of the other three Ken Boyd stories Wickes mentions and I have to say that he really makes progress in "Rainbow." Thanks to Annie McBride, it looks like Ken is finally starting to come to terms with his life, both present and future. It seemed that no matter how much Ken's cousin Sandy tried to help him, she was too close to the source of the problem. Annie had no idea of what Ken had gone through and was in a better position to be objective about things, her own problems not with standing. Besides, I think she and Ken kind of helped each other realize that you can't run and hide from life.

I'd like to see more of Ken and Annie together. It would be nice to watch further developments in their relationship. Also, it would be interesting to see Ken open up and come out into the world once more.

Do you suppose Wickes and Magee could be talked into doing a longer Ken Boyd story? I was thinking, I guess, of a sort of novella or short novel. Maybe they don't have the time but it's an idea.

I enjoyed the stories about David Halloran and Martin Stett, too. They are the first ones I have seen in fan fiction. I was beginning to wonder if anyone remembered the other characters Ford did after Han Solo except for Tommy Lillard, or before him, either. Could Pat Nussman be persuaded to give us more of Tommy Lillard and the school marm? Seems like there could be at least one more story there. I know Pat is busy with other things, like everybody else, but perhaps she'd consider it.

On the whole, I enjoyed your zine immensely and am looking forward to #2. I'm sending you my deposit with this letter. Hope I've said something useful in all this. Have to congratulate you again on the good job you've done.

It was a black day for all Ford fans when FACETS decided to shut down. Then the notice regarding a new Ford zine, FLIP OF A COIN came my way and to quote Cimino, "Ladies and Gentlemen, there really is a God!"

Flip's all-around appearance, presentation, artwork, content rate a huge "10"! Great first effort and one you can be proud of, Paula and Jenny. The artwork vote goes to Wanda Lybarger. I especially liked her illo on p. 108 of Avram, Tommy and the "princess"!

Pat Nussman's crossover story was fantastic! What a clever idea—and I DO believe in reincarnation!! Why not, the idea is so perfect. Tommy and Han have a lot in common—attitudes for one thing!

My other favorites in this first issue were the HANOVER STREET alternate ending story by Paula, and Martie Benedict's "After the Mission" poem. I'm one of the few Ford fans who truly loved that movie and I think Harrison's performance was beautifully played. Watch again the scene after he aborts the mission and he is so wretchedly confused that he asks Maggie to "put him back together" because he is all in pieces. Heavy stuff, that.

The Kenny Boyd stories by D. C. Wickes and Sherry Magee were right on the money. What a fantastic treasure trove of tales Ford fans have written from only what amounted to a twenty minute on-screen performance. Another Ford effort that has been highly underrated.

"Another" by Scheherazade was most interesting— another speculation as to how THE MOVIE will end.

The RAIDERS and BLADE RUNNER pieces were also excellent" and the choices for FLIP'S debut are wonderful. The cartoons actually made me laugh out loud which is how I rate them. My two favorites were Brad Morris' on p. 56 and Wanda's on p. 49.

Here's to another good issue in #2. Congratulations again on a wonderful first effort! Oh, almost forgot, "The Demise of Willie Bill" by Marcia and Melody really tickled me. How many of us Ford fans do the same thing? Sit up until all hours to finally catch a glimpse of "him"? Well, that's what VCR's are for, folks!!!

Bravo! Just when I thought I was going to wither up and die from withdrawal, FLIP OF A COIN came along and saved me. Oh, sure, the odd references in newspapers and magazines are nice, but they are few and far between. (Methinks that Harrison hides in his house too much.) But there's nothing like hearing from the fans. After all, we're awfully talented, right? Or, if we're not talented, our hearts are in the right place. And that right place is issue #1 of FLIP OF A COIN.

Kudos to everyone involved! A masterful job if I ever saw one—you should be very proud of your selves for turning out such a terrific product on your first try. And you picked such a wonderful variety of pieces. I almost don't know where to begin!

Wait-- I do know where to begin. Before I go any farther, I'd like to extend a grateful warm fuzzy to Betsy Peed for her illo that accompanied "Daemon." Quite appropriate, and very nice. If Betsy would like to do it for me again sometime, I would have absolutely no objections.

Without a doubt my favorite piece is "A Rainbow Above You." I honestly don't think I can express my feelings about it on paper. It was left with a warm feeling after finishing it which lasted for quite a few days. (And now that I'm thinking about it again, the feeling is coming back!) Witnessing Ken's first steps on the road to sanity is a gratifying experience. It's going to be 3 long walk, but he's going to make it. Obviously, we all have faith in him. Any chance of Dianne taking him—and us— on more of that journey?

After "Rainbow," almost everything else is lumped together in the #2 spot. I wish I had the paper, ink, and time to comment on everything, but that would be a monumental task. So let me make the following abbreviated remarks.

"A Toast to Innocence": an interesting change of pace story. "The Demise of Willie Bill": enormously amusing. I know exactly what Marcia and Melody were talking about—I've gone through it myself. Brad Morris' cartoon: terrific! Now every time I watch BLADE RUNNER, I laugh as I cringe during that scene. "Starting Again": nice job, Paula! I honestly can't say how true to the movie it is. You see, I am one of those poor unfortunates who hasn't seen HANOVER STREET yet. (Don't worry! Thanks to our cable, I'll see it in April—finally!) "Plus Cea Chahge"; oh, for cryin' out loud! How silly! But I'm such a fan of silly stuff, y'know. And Dianne's illo on p. 112: one of those things I wish I had thought of.

Now there's one other comment I feel I have to make, and, admittedly, it's not as complimentary as my others. (I take part of the blame for this, too.) I've read "Another" twice, and I get this crazy feeling that something is missing. It's like a couple pages fell out between Tallahassee and Redondo Beach. It was all a little too obscure for me. Oh well...

So, except for this one rough spot, I would proclaim FLIP OF A COIN a success. Congratulations! Keep up the good work, because I will be looking forward to #2! Good luck!

FLIP OF A COIN arrived lookin' good, to say the least. If you wanted to state the quality of your work in one brief statement, you could do no better than the front cover. Few artists can give you a look-alike portrait, much less add the emotion to it that the real man exhibits. Dunster has succeeded in both, magnificently. Your desire for top quality work challenges the rest of us to meet those standards and rightfully so; Harrison gives us his best, we should do no less in return.

Well, I must turn the cover if I'm to ever get on with this letter. My first observation: BRAVO. I've read them all in the last few months, everything from the worst to the con winners and I must admit it's the middle of the road guys that gives me the most pleasure and contentment. This is for fun—let's keep it that way. A brief comment on each story: "A Toast to Innocence" was darling. I believe the concept is something Tommy would find himself facing and the handling of his dilemma is simple and unencumbered, much like the man himself. Very well written and entertaining.

"I Call It Luck" - I envy people that can say so much in a short space (you already know that's impossible for me). Nicely stated and sweet.

"Deja Vu" - Another single page with lots to say. You think you hear Deckard reciting this piece.

"A Rainbow Above You" - And now to Kenny—yeah. Kenny's my favorite, so needless to say, I'm thrilled to find someone giving the guy a chance. The story carries itself well and leaves you feeling wonderfully warm and cozy. I LIKED IT.

"Reflections on a Medallion" - So much can be conveyed in a brief moment of thought. It is done well here.

"The Demise of Willie Bill" - My sympathy, girls—I've seen it too. Of course, when I saw it, I didn't have sense enough to know who to watch but I remember enough. Have courage—HANOVER STREET will make up for it. Good job.

"Another" - It took me a bit to catch on to the story but then since I read the whole zine nonstop, I could have been in a time warp — Civil War to Star Wars. Reading it a second time was worth the effort. Again, there's volumes in those few lines. Well written and pleasant.

"Starting Again" - The story held the tension of uncertainty without bogging down. I'm not so sure I see David Halloran running from any girl, yet that was just the thing that kept it light and enjoyable. Well done, Paula—after reading the zines you've put out, I know you're quite capable at judging other's work as well as creating your own. Keep up the good work.

"Daemon" - A normal professor Indy ain't. Well stated, Ruth.

"Discovery" - Back to Kenny (sigh). Sherry always does great work. I'm glad Dianne wanted a Kenny and the cat story, so did I. Very special for all us Kenny fans. Thanks for a job well done.

"Seaside" - Cute and simple, just like Tommy.

"Kenny's Improvisation Song" - Martie knows country boys, of course; they're all alike. She sure writes well, too.

"Somewhere Outside Los Angeles" - A good piece; sort of sad, though.

"Reply to a Conversation" - I've read several pieces by Berger. The names inspires me to buy a zine—I'll know there'll be at least one well written, comprehensible, and good characterization story and it held true again. Stett was Stett; my congratulations. I found the movie hard to relate to and, believe it or not, Berger stayed so in character with the movie, I had the same detachment with the story. I mean that as a compliment—it was a good story.

"After the Mission" - Martie weaves beauty in whatever she does. She pictures the true events in well chosen words; the entire movie and it's emotions on one page. A find accomplishment.

"Plus Cea Change" - The perfect piece to end with—when you close the covers, you just feel warm all over. Tommy and Leah? The perfect pair? Pat said it all—the rest history. Charming. "Just Go" - Cute and true of Solo's ladies.

Generally, the zine was put together well. A fine mixture of long and short, serious and funny. The artwork was good—some pieces could have been a bit closer to the real likeness but since I can't draw a straight line with a ruler, I'm not about to deny any artist an A for effort and encourage each of you to keep at it—the more you do, the better you'll become. I'm pleased to see two editors who will give newcomers a chance, artists and writers alike. We all need our choices and given time, we'll get better—well, maybe not me, but the rest of you have high hopes.

Your choice of type size was very readable and easy to follow. I liked the different styles in your titles and the occasional italic added just enough spice to keep the zine from becoming monotonous. I found only two typos and since I've done some heavy typing lately, my congratulations on such an extraordinary job.

You have succeeded masterfully in keeping each story true to character, well written and believable. My compliments to the editors and writers for their joint efforts that created such a happy reading experience for me.

The quality craftsmanship you've used in your zine is only matched by our respect for the man it honors. You're tops on my list, ladies—looking forward to FLIP #2 - #3 - #4 - #100.

FLIP #1 is an impressive first effort—it looks crisp, professional, and a majority of both the stories and illustrations were, I thought, of good quality. I do, I'll admit, have a prejudice for reduced, double-column format (just because it's possible to fit more in that way), but I know others have just as strong a prejudice in the other direction. That aside, it's hard to find much fault with flip's physical appearance. Rather than go through every story, I'd like to just mention a few items that particularly impressed me. Two stories that really caught me were the Kenny stories by Dianne Wickes and Sherry Magee, and this, despite the fact that I'd just as soon forget the Vietnam War ever happened. Wickes' story had- a strong, believable developing relationship between the created female character and Kenny, something that isn't the easiest thing to do—witness the countless unbelievable female characters created for Han. Wickes resisted the temptation to make Annie the psuedo-macho female that too often is created, but made her simply a good, caring person—and, thus, rendered her interesting in her own right, as well as in relation to Kenny. I was impressed, particularly by the culminating scene of Kenny on the edge of suicide, which had a rare gripping, dramatic quality.

Sherry's complementary story was delightful and shows some considerable growth, stylistically, since her first Kenny pieces in FACETS. The combination of Kenny and the cat was simply charming.

Also, I was particularly impressed by J.A. Berger's "Reply to a Conversation." Jean's another author whose style is progressing rapidly, but even aside from that, the story is so unusual for fan-fic that it would deserve applause simply from that aspect. For a Harrison fan, it would be a temptation to try to make Martin Stett into a more sympathetic character, but Jean doesn't succumb to that, but rather gives the character the same aura of manipulative evil that must have made it an intriguing role for an actor like Harrison.

Also, in the poetry department, I'd like to commend Jacqueline Taero's "Reflection on a Medallion." So few few writers attempt rhyming poetry that it's rather remarkable when one rims across a poet who not only tries but succeeds—and with not the simplest of rhyme schemes. But then, Jacqueline's poetry is always delightful. And, naturally, I enjoyed Martie Benedict's songs/poetry—those who have Martie's tapes have been aware for a long time of the sensitive portrayals Martie manages for all of Harrison's characters.

In art, I naturally like J.R. Dunster's lovely cover portrait, but was also intrigued by Scott Lemer's impressively designed BLADE RUNNER back cover. I don't believe I've seen his work before—but I'm looking forward to more of it. Also, I have a great prejudice in favor of another of your major artists—Wanda Lybarger, who I think is one of the best two or three illustrators in fandom. I particularly liked her illustrations for the Wickes story and my own.

I just finished reading the first issue of FLIP OF A COIN, and enjoyed it very much. You asked for likes, dislikes, etc., so here goes— "A Toast to Innocence" - Even though the mood of this story is rather somber, I still feel it ends on a somewhat happy note. The one thing I think is missing are illos to accompany this otherwise fine story. I would have liked to have seen a rendering of Katie. "A Rainbow Above You" and "Discovery" are my two favorite stories (but it's hard to pick favorites out of so many good offerings). I really like "the way Dianne and Sherry depict Kenny. He's such a sad, tormented man. Dianne and Sherry have shown some hope for him in a future that would normally be pretty bleak and depressing. I'd really like to read more of their stories about Ken, Annie, and, of course, Jenny.

"Another" is certainly different, but I can see it turning out that way. From the ending, one can draw "their own conclusions as to what ultimately happens. "Starting Again" is another story I really liked for "the hope it gives to Halloran's future, same as the Kenny stories. I've always felt that Halloran deserved another chance to start over again in a new relationship. I'm glad somebody finally gave him that chance.

"Reply to a Conversation" is one I had misconceptions about before I read it. I mean, how much can one do with a Martin Stett story? As soon as I got into it, I found it totally intriguing and a plausible sequel to THE CONVERSATION. I'm glad now I didn't pass it by on first sight unseen. "Plus Cea Change" is a fun little gem—I happily chuckled all the way through it. Some new insights are brought up in it, too—well, they're new to me. Like maybe one of the reasons Han stays with the Rebellion at first, after the Death Star, is the same reason Tommy has for sticking around—to show Leia not to push him. Also, how much alike in some ways are Han and Tommy. The illo with this story is perfect.

I found all of "the poetry to.be excellent. I especially like Martie's pieces. Even with the tapes, it's still nice to have the words written down somewhere, and even better to have such lovely illos accompanying each piece. I really like Martie's illo on p. 82. It's totally in character, simply done, and yet fits the poem perfectly. I do hope Martie will illo more of her poems in "the future.

Every cartoon in this issue is choice. Some cartoons don't bear remembering, but these not only are remembered, but bring a smile and a laugh each time I "think about them. My favorites are p. 49, 109, and 112.

This is a great start for a first issue. I think the bio section is a good idea. I missed it this first time around. I hope you'll include it in future issues. I like to learn about others' interests, too. I appreciated the fact that you listed the character in parentheses after each title on the contents page. It makes it so much easier when looking at a contents page in a non-exclusive SW zine. I'm looking forward to FLIP OF A COIN #2, and I hope there'll be many more future issues.

Everything gets off to a splendid start with "the cover portrait of Harrison. It's magnificent, a real tribute to the man. One expects a class act on "the inside with such a great cover—and one isn't disappointed!

The only wistfulness I felt was having read so much of the material in manuscript form prior to publication. There weren't, in other words, too many surprises. I enjoyed Peggy's "A Toast to Innocence," as an example of gentle irony. It's skillfully written and a pleasant contrast to some of the more raucous, shoot-'em-up type western stories.

I've been a great fan of the Kenny stories Sherry and Dianne spin since I first ran across them in FACETS a couple of years ago. Their obvious understanding of the character, plus their equally obvious affection for him and the folk with whom they people his world, make these tales compelling, fine reading. Not to mention the fact that both are excellent writers.

Dianne's "Rainbow" is, perhaps, a classic, or will be one day. Should be. Sherry's "Discovery" comes in its wake like the first green leaves after a spring thaw. Together they have made a world for this man to live in, and Wanda has shown us what that world looks like with all the superb skill at her command.

I'm honored that they let me play with their toys and be a small part of it with "Kenny's Improvisation Song."

Paula's "Starting Again" was another refreshing breeze with hopeful overtones. There seems among us to be a great dislike of having the man, in any of his incarnations, without a love interest for very long. And I applaud the thought! There is hope for Halloran, just as there is for Kenny, and Paula expressed hers beautifully.

Dianne's illustrative style is taking on a very polished and more professional look. It is still something of a caricature as to the Harrison likeness, though that may be exactly what's intended. I do love her females, though, gracefully poised and gentle. Her lines are sure, yet delicate. Very nice work.

J.A.'s "Reply" was exactly what I'd hoped for, though, as in the film, Martin Stett stalks at the periphery of the action, which revolves around Harry Caul, like a deadly panther rather than taking center stage. Stett is a character of shadow anyway. His menace is the quiet horror of a voice over the unlisted telephone. I liked this one very much, especially the eyebrow-raising suggestion at the end that attention was being paid to the wrong relationship. Nice point!

"Plus Cea Change" by Pat was a delight. It fit the characters perfectly. Especially liked Wanda's long, tall Tommy lounging with lazy grace by the wall. What a body! Of the poems I greatly enjoyed "Reflections on a Medallion" by Jacqueline Taero. The final reflection' lines in each stanza were pithy comments. Good verse. And, of course, Brin and Corbett's hilarious "The Demise of Willie Bill!" I could have sworn it was an apple, though—or did that LIFE layout affect me overmuch? That is one frustrating film, all right. Brad Morris' Deckard cartoon and Scott Lemer's back cover were two good artistic additions.

Random thoughts on the issue might include a touch of puzzlement as to what "Another" by Scheherazade was all about. It felt menacing, yet I'm not sure. A different story. And a round of applause for Wanda's beautiful and prolific interpretations. Her Tommy/Pris was laugh-out-loud funny.

There was so much here to enjoy, and I'm so pleased to have been a part of it. My congratulations on a fine first issue, and may there be many more to come.

Issue 2

front cover of issue #2, Wanda Lybarger

back cover of issue #2, Sheila Paulson

flyer for issue #2

Flip of a Coin 2 contains 160 pages and was published in July 1983

The artwork is by Wanda Lybarger, Sheila Paulson, Barbara Frances-Simon, Carlotta Vaughn, D.C. Wickes, Betsy Peed, Martynn, Suzy Sansom, Donna Oakes, Gee Moaven (not credited), Wendy Ikeguchi, Jan Keeler, Peter Parker, Dani Lane, Lisa Brown, and Cheryl Fint.

The illo by Peed on page 75 originally appeared in Archaeology 101.

• Hello -- again!, editorial (3)
• Reviews, letters of comment (4
• Deja Vu by T.S. Weddell ("An alternate universe tale, a post-JEDI tale... to tell you more would be a crime.") (Star Wars) (9)
• Reflections on a Medallion by Mysti Frank (Indiana Jones) (13)
• Brave Lt. Shaffer by Martie Benedict (A Time for Killing) (14)
• Count Me Out, poem by Barbara E. Trimble (Star Wars) (16)
• The Way That It Goes by D.C. Wickes ("Another Kenny Boyd, Annie McBride tale.") (Heroes) (17)
• cartoon by Donna Oakes (Indiana Jones) (24)
• Corellian Pirate, poem by Karin L. Zygowicz (Star Wars) (25)
• Devolution by Marty Benedict (Blade Runner) (26)
• Untitled Ballad for "Hanover Street", filk by Sara Fensterer (Hanover Street) (28)
• Rendezvous by Ruth Radecki ("A routine rendezvous with a Rebel spy on Pheris leads Han Solo to an encounter with Darth Vader.") (Star Wars) (29)
• Career Appraisal by Jacqueline Taero (The Conversation) (39)
• Long Distance by D.C. Wickes (Heroes) (40)
• Whatever Happens... No.1, poem by M.E. Wickes (Star Wars) (42)
• The Lodi Straight by Martie Benedict ("Tommy and Avram have a revealing "religious" experience when they encounter Kevie and Lang, Martie's bawdy ladies...") (Frisco Kid) (43)
• cartoon by Suzy Sansom (Indiana Jones) (53)
• Boundaries of a Sleeping King's Domain, poem by Ruth Radecki (Star Wars) (54)
• Song of a Princess, poem by Ruth Radecki (Star Wars) (56)
• Thoughts, poem by Suzy Sansom (Blade Runner) (58)
• Colonial Captain Mr. Deck by Mysti Frank (What happens to Harrison's characters when they become unemployed?) (multifandom) (59)
• Bad Timing, poem by Jacqueline Taero (Star Wars) (63)
• A Man Such as Dreams are Made Of, poem by Mysti Frank (Star Wars) (64)
• Ode to a Job Well Done by Mysti Frank (Blade Runner) (66)
• The Wedding Present by Joan Shumsky ("Han Solo had plans for the Alliance's reward until a beautiful, fiesty Princess walked into his life.") (Star Wars) (69)
• cartoon by Martie Benedict (Star Wars) (74)
• Plane Talk by Paula Truelove (While on the trip to Cairo, Indy and Marion have a few quiet moments to reflect.) (Indiana Jones) (75)
• Soliloquy, poem by Cathie Whitehead (Frisco Kid) (77)
• Kenny, poem by Cathie Whitehead (Heroes) (78)
• Gettin' Back to England by Martie Benedict (Force 10 from Navarone) (80)
• Sweet Dreams and Moonbeams by Barbara Frances-Simon ("Memories can haunt, dreams can hurt; Rachel and Deckard try to start a new life together.") (Blade Runner) (83)
• Why?, poem by Ruth Radecki (Indiana Jones) (87)
• Ice, poem by Martie Benedict (Star Wars) (88)
• Decision by M.E. Wickes (Frisco Kid) (90)
• Lost Embrace by Wendy Ikeguchi ("Another in the "Tails of Scheherazade" series; this, is a "prequel" to "Another," in the first issue of FLIP OF A COIN.") (Star Wars) (92)
• Kismet by L.A. Adolf ("Indiana Jones is dead, but his obsession with the powerful and mysterious Ark of the Covenant lives on.") (Indiana Jones) (99)
• Sorry to Disappoint, poem by Jacqueline Taero (Star Wars) (116)
• Paradox, poem by Barbara Brayton (Blade Runner) (117)
• Whatever Happens... No.2, poem by M.E. Wickes (Star Wars) (118)
• Blade Runner, by M.E. Wickes (Blade Runner) (120)
• Gunhand of Circumstance by J.A. Berger ("The second story in the Gunhand Trilogy, featuring Tommy Lillard, Pico McGuire, and Cord.") (Frisco Kid) (122)
• cartoon by Barbie Doyle (Blade Runner) (156)
• Notices (157)

• 

  from issue #2, Barbara Frances-Simon (Star Wars)

• 

  from issue #2, Carlotta Vaughn (A Time for Killing)

• 

  from issue #2, Wendy Ikeguchi (Heroes)

• 

  from issue #2, Betsy Peed (Star Wars)

• 

  from issue #2, Martynn (Blade Runner)

• 

  from issue #2, Suzy Sansom (Star Wars)

• 

  from issue #2, Martynn (Frisco Kid)

• 

  from issue #2, Suzy Sansom (Blade Runner)

• 

  from issue #2, Peter Parker (Blade Runner)

• 

  from issue #2, Wanda Lybarger (Heroes)

• 

  from issue #2, Wanda Lybarger (Force 10 from Navarone)

• 

  from issue #2, Wendy Ikeguchi (Indiana Jones)

• 

  from issue #2, Cheryl Fint (Frisco Kid)

• 

  from issue #2, Gee Moaven (not credited) (Frisco Kid)

• 

  from issue #2, Gee Moaven (not credited) (Frisco Kid)

• 

  from issue #2, Wanda Lybarger (Star Wars)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 2

I received FLIP OF A COIN 2 today and was quite impressed with the terrific stories, poems, illustrations, and cartoons contained therein.

I especially liked "Rendezvous" by R. Radecki (I'm a sucker for Han Solo/Darth Vader stories). I also thought "Bad Timing" by J. Taero was very much in character. All the contributing masterpieces to this zine should be praised for their outstanding hard work to make it a success. I would especially like to thank Carlotta Vaughn for her wonderful illustration of my poem "Count Me Out."

Best of luck always, and may you have a very long lifespan FLIP OF A COIN!

Who would think you two could have outdone yourselves? FLIP 2 was, needless to say, terrific! Everything about the zine—from its superb contents to its neat graphics—lend to its sharp, clean look. I must say that FLIP is one of the best amateur fan magazines I've ever had the pleasure of reading.

After reading the contents page, I turned straight for D.C. Wickes' "The Way That It Goes." After being moved to tears by Wickes' "A Rainbow Above You" in FLIP 1, I was thrilled to find another Kenny and Annie story in the latest issue; just as lovely as ever.

By the way, how come no mention of J. A. Berger's artwork was made in the table of contents? She had some gorgeous pieces in that issue. In fact, the artwork sort of depressed me. I had just come home, ending my first week of art school, and I found my copy of FLIP 2 in the mailbox. Well, I tore open the envelope and immediately flipped through the pages. I'm telling you, FLIP'S artwork could eventually drive me to quit school and get a job at Wendy's, slinging hamburger patties!

Anyway, I can't wait to see the third issue. Keep up the good work; you really are doing a fine job.

I came home late at night after a grueling day of work and night school to find FLIP 2 waiting for me. What a pick-me-up it was! I read a lot of it that night. I couldn't sleep! The most pleasant insomnia I've ever had!

The writers and artists were truly inspired. Absolutely love the Lybarger cover of Tommy with his coffee. His character really comes across. I could stare at it for hours. A silly thing to do! The cartoon on the inside back cover of a steaming "Han"-burger was delightful. Really cute twist on words there.

I also loved the Kenny poem by Cathie Whitehead. The drawing of Kenny with his beer and his rabbit accompanying it was exquisite. Lybarger's rendition made him look so pensive. It enhanced the poem, which stood by itself, but the two together—really nice!

Really appreciated how the expressions on the drawings fit the pieces so aptly. Really quality stuff here! Also loved the BLADE RUNNER piece "Sweet Dreams and Moonbeams" by Barbara Frances-Simon. I'm one of those people who liked the movie, or at least most of it, and I loved Harrison Ford's work in it. It was so nice to read a Rick Deckard story for a change and one that was uplifting. Deckard sure deserves a few happy endings.

All your submitters deserve a huge pat on the back for helping us support our habit with such flair. Talk about losing oneself—I was mesmerized! Don't ever stop!

I now very proudly own copies of both your first and second issues. I think you have done an excellent job with the zine so far and I am eagerly awaiting further issues.

I am most impressed by the variety of stories, poems, art, and cartoons and the range of characters. My goodness! Even a Martin Stett story in 1 and a poem in 2!) I have to confess that I found THE CONVERSATION to be a tremendously boring movie, but watched it because Harrison was in it. Ah, but I am digressing. Back to your zine...

Although Han Solo is my favorite of Harrison's characters (with Tommy Lillard a fairly close second), my favorite stories in FLIP 1 and 2 were the Kenny Boyd stories by p. C. Wickes and Sherry Magee. Their stories show, with tremendous care and understanding, the rebuilding of the self-esteem of a man psychologically scarred by the realities of war. They show there is still hope for a man who has lived through hell.

As for the artwork, I think it is good. Your covers are excellent. Of the inside art, my favorites are all in issue 2. They are (not in any particular order): the Martynn piece on page 26, the Suzy Sansom piece on page 58, the Wanda Lybarger piece on page 79, and the detailed illos for "Gunhand of Circumstance" (My God! The patience required for that detail!). My favorite cartoons are issue 1: page 56; issue 2: page 24, 53, and inside cover (Oh, Wanda, that's painful!).

I enjoyed all the poems and filks (especially those by Martie Benedict).

Overall, I thought both issues were great. Not only do the contents show talent of all types, but the layout of the zines and the arrangement of the stories, etc., emphasize the diversity of the contents. Oh, by the way, whoever thought of putting the characters' names on the contents page deserves a commendation. Great idea!

FLIP 2 is a feast for the eyes, a treasure any Corellian would covet!!

Bravo for your stand on reader feedback—while I'm not afraid of comments on my writing, I don't wanna hear "Christiani, IT STINKS!" without elaboration.

My favorite art is in "Deja Vu." There's such a haunting quality about it, it reminds me of the late, great TWILIGHT ZONE. Favorite poems are Ruth Radecki's "Boundaries of a Sleeping King's Domain" and "Song of a Princess." She caught Han and Leia's thoughts beautifully.

Does Martie Benedict ever sleep? All her stuff is great. Joan Shumsky's "Wedding Present" is like a great dessert: light, frothy, uncomplicated, sexy (Yes! Sexy!) and satisfying. Thank ya, Joan.

The biggest surprise for me was "Gunhand of Circumstance" since it's a pretty long story and presents Tommy in (I think) a grimmer light than he's usually portrayed, but it held me right up to the end.

Flip's look is great! My God, it's bound like a book — it's so permanent...

"Deja Vu" was a good alternate story. I guess people haven't run out of twists to the plot. I can possibly see Luke's "fall" given the events described, and I like the way Han stepped in to fill the void, in spite of his grief and loss. Very touching story.

"The Way That It Goes" is another fine Kenny story. He really has come to depend on Annie to be there, hasn't he? He'd be a lot worse off if he were still alone. Kenny has really come a long way in a short time. I understand how Pat Nussman feels; we would all like to forget the Vietnam War, but it's probably not a good idea, and we should never forget the men who fought it. Speaking of songs, "Still in Saigon" comes to mind.

"Sweet Dreams and Moonbeams" was my favorite story. Want to know why? Because I'm hopelessly romantic and shamelessly sentimental. And, I'm a sucker for happy endings. It was just a sweet and gentle story. That's what Rick and Rachel need in their lives right now, a little gentleness. It was especially nice to see her comforting him. Just a lovely story. I would like to see another one dealing with the baby.

"Kismet"—it's about time Lisa had another story published. She doesn't do enough writing. I really like it, the whole idea of Indy living again through his son; reincarnation, the Phoenix, returning the holy things to the burial place. Fascinating. If Indy was punished for violating the burial place of the Ark, perhaps he was given another chance as well, because he respected it for itself, not for what it could do for him. And because he wanted to take it home.

I liked "Gunhand of Circumstance." I do hope Tommy is not going to spend the rest of his life robbing banks. Seems he'd have the common sense to quit while he was ahead. He's a good-hearted person, though, which is why he got into further trouble in this story.

Wanda Lybarger's artwork graces your zine again. I think my favorite was her Kenny on page 79, and her "Han-burgers" cartoon on the inside back cover. Sheila Paulson's Indiana on the back cover is also good.

I liked almost everything this time around. Those things I don't like are more often a matter of personal taste, than amything specific. To each his own.

Looking forward to the next issue.

You have a fine zine in FLIP, one of which you can be justifiably proud. The slight delay for 2 was insignificant compared with the usual course of things, and it was beyond your control in any case. You asked for suggestions concerning a bounty hunter to send after your printer—might I nominate Boussh and her thermal detonator? She always gets her man.

I'll only mention my own work insofar as to say that your expert, typo-free layout and the excellent artwork greatly enhanced a rather pedestrian story. I'm very pleased and grateful. The high spot of the zine for me was Martie Benedicts's poem "Devolution." Perhaps my reaction to the piece is partly subjective, since I was pregnant at the time I first saw BLADE RUNNER and it gave me a slight shiver to realize that my child and Rick Deckard were probably of an age. What a disquieting vision of the future! But "Devolution" is powerful poetry under any circumstances. Beautiful!

I'm also quite fond of Jacqueline Taero's poetry, which is a little more whimsical but always has a mordant bite of truth to it. "Bad Timing," especially, was a gem.

As for the rest, I hope no one will feel slighted if I don't single anything else out. I'd have to mention everything, because there isn't a piece in the entire zine that isn't thoughtful and well-crafted. That in itself is a rarity.

Now for my mandatory constructive criticism: I don't want to sound like a junior varsity Edwin Newman, but you guys did it again and incorrectly conjugated the verb, to lie, in the last paragraph of "Colonel Captain Mr. Deck" on page 63. Tsk, tsk, tsk! That sentence should have read "Deckard lay down..." It's a tricky point of grammar, I know, but it's one which separates the women from the girls.

So Harrison Ford thinks we're crazy, hmmm? Can't really blame him. After reading zine after zine of paeans to his manly charms, the poor guy must be worried that one morning when he steps out of his door to get the paper, a horde of lush-crazed female fen will jump out of the bushes at him, whereupon a scene will ensue reminiscent of Orpheus and the Maenads. Seriously, SF and media fans seem to have a reputation for nuttiness, which is why I'm always a little embarrassed to mention my hobby to my mundane friends. But most of us are sane (marginally, anyway) and in fandom not because we have nothing better to do, but because it provides an excellent outlet for our artistic endeavors in a society where not everyone is lucky enough to be able to do it for a living, and a pleasant way to meet new people.

In conclusion, I'd like to join you in extending congratulations to Mr. Ford and Ms. Mathison.

It's about time she made an honest man of him.

First off, I'd like to say bravo for FLIP OF A COIN 2! You're doing a wonderful job of filling FACETS' footsteps—while sticking to your own unique style. I'm especially pleased with the mix of different Ford characters that you are presenting in the zine.

Issue 2 managed to surpass 1 in both quality and quantity, in my opinion. That's no mean feat, either.

I was very touched by T. S. Weddell's story "Deja Vu" even though I figured out what was coming long before the ending. The story had just the right amount of "spookiness" about it. It kind of made me shiver and break out in goosebumps. I really liked it.

And then there was "The Way That It Goes." Just marvelous, simply marvelous. I'm getting hooked on the Kenny and Annie stories—and that silly cat. The only thing I wished for in this story was that it was longer. Tell your authors to write more, write more!

Ruth Radecki's "Rendezvous" was funny and serious at the same time. Not a bad mix. I liked Chewbacca in this one. So many writers ignore the poor Wookiee. Suzy Sansom's art was delightful, too.

Ah, and then we come to "The Lodi Straight." Martie Benedict has such a delicious sense of humor. Avram and Tommy were portrayed right on the mark as far as I'm concerned. And you ought to know by now what I think of Wanda Lybarger's art — Harrison couldn't be too much sexier in the flesh than in her drawings. (Well, maybe I ought to think on that a while!)

"Colonel Captain Mr. Deck" was very funny. Really loved the sparring between Indy and Han. I could just see it happening.

But one of my favorite stories in the whole zine was "The Wedding Present." I just flip over the way Joan Shumsky writes about Han and Leia. All of her stories are so romantic. Sometimes mushy is good, you know? Dani Lane's illo on page 70 also has to be one of my favorites in the whole zine.

It was nice to see Paula's story "Plane Talk." It's funny but there doesn't seem to be all that many people writing about Indiana and Marion. I don't mind reading about Han, by any means, but I'd like to see Indiana now and again.

For the same reason it was nice to see "Sweet Dreams and Moonbeams." Deckard was portrayed very sensitively in this piece.

I found "Lost Embrace" an interesting story as an alternate "after the rebellion" story. I've read some of the other installments of this story but I don't think I've got them in the right order yet. The whole thing seems a little bizarre. Oh well, a little bizarre spices up a zine, eh?

L. A. Adolf's "Kismet" is really bizarre. The writing almost reminds me of Anne Elizabeth Zeek. For a story about Indiana that is ostensibly void of Indiana, it's great! Just the right amount of supernatural happenings lurking in the background. I liked it enough that I didn't miss Indy!

Your final story, "Gunhand of Circumstance," was a nice way to top off the zine. I enjoyed all of the characters and the plot was very well done. The illos were beautiful.

I'd also like to say a few words about my favorite poems and illustrations. I certainly don't

want anyone to feel slighted because I've not mentioned their particular work—I found everything in FLIP 2 enjoyable in some shape or form. I guess my favorite poems were "Count Me Out," "Long Distance," "Whatever Happens..." (both versions), and "Sorry to Disappoint." But my absolute favorite poem was "Bad Timing.'" What a scream! And so true. I've already mentioned a few of my favorite illos but I can't sign off without saying how much I enjoyed Lybarger's cartoon on the inside back cover. What a wicked wit she has.

I hesitate to write what could be a LOC, because commenting on one or more might imply that these are better than the others and this is not the case. I have to admit, however, to the ones that I have reread; Paula, your "Plane Talk;" D.C. Wickes' "The Way That It Goes" and "Long Distance;" Adolf's "Kismet;" Shumsky's "Wedding Present;" Barbara Frances-Simon's "Sweet Dreams and Moonbeams;" Frank's "Colonel Captain Mr. Deck"—this story immediately brought to mind Ford's constant quote "See me through my characters" and it was just excellent. Limbo, huh? Make room for Han?

All of Benedict—okay, I give up, here I am going to comment, for sure! Martie Benedict—"Brave Lt. Shaffer"—for having sat through that movie at least two times, and waiting—thank you for the poem. It really hits you. I admit to cracking up with laughter in reading it. I thought immediately of the one that Marcia Brin (I believe) did on JOURNEY TO SHILOH—which escapes me where I read that the idea that we fans would sit, wait, hope, and then—nothing. Each of these gals did a super job saying it.

Also, Martie's "Devolution" hit me. Phil Dick had said that in his books he had tried often to present problems that exist in our current society and that he felt we had today to change for a better future; Martie, I felt, captured this spirit! "Lodi Straight" is wonderfully done. But I admit to having most of "Brave Lt. Shaffer" memorized and will probably quote it frequently!

Meant to add with Adolf's "Kismet"—I thank you for Marion. This only needs a director and there's a movie there. And Paula, you did the scene with "Plane Talk" that Steven could/should have done!! Thank you!

Well, I didn't mean to do this because I hate to point out a few when every single story was excellent—story, poem, illo—just grand, and I know I will reread 2 as I have often done 1.

And, to end, I want to thank you gals and Jean Berger — for two things: Another excellent "Gunhand" story, and also for sharing the letter from Charles Gray. I thank you for doing this because, I am sure that everyone else but me on the planet Earth knew this but I have read her other stories with Pico and it's been driving my brain batty (sorry, Roy!) as to why this character gave me the impression of being so familiar. Cord I had all wrong (again, thank you!). I kept latching onto Alex Cord, and that GUNSMOKE that Ford was in. Sorry, Jean, but that Pico bothered me and it was just excellent for me, having been a TV addict in the sixties—mainly westerns—to have this solved for me.

In closing this letter, I want to add that Mr. Gray's letter,which included a comment that he said Mr. Ford had made to the effect that Ford seems to think you guys are crazy, intrigued me.- I guess I assumed that fiction fanzines were sent to Mr. Ford, and, of course, I have never read that he ever commented on any. With that in mind, I would certainly suggest that if no other part of this zine is mailed to him, Mysti Frank's "Colonel Captain Mr. Deck" is the one. This story, as well as all of your zine, proves that his fans do look at him through his characters, perhaps exploring areas of these people he didn't/couldn't—but all done with great talent and excellence.

Thank you for FLIP 1 and 2. I will just keep rereading them both until FLIP 3 appears.

Well, I promised you a LOC to FLIP 2 and here it is. I will pass on commenting on pieces relating to movies I didn't see (HANOVER STREET, BLADE RUNNER) and restrict myself to the ones I did.

Of the prose pieces, I would have to say my favorites are the two Tommy Lillard stories. "The Lodi Straight" is a total delight—just the sort of screwball involvement you might expect of a man who let himself get mixed up with a greenhorn rabbi. The interaction between Tommy and the Belinskys I thought especially well done. Have Kevie and Lang ever appeared anywhere else?

Then for a complete change of pace, try the darkly flavored "Gunhand of Circumstance." Excellent suspense. Of course, I guessed from the start that Cord and McGuire were there for ulterior reasons, but Jean Ann handled the atmosphere so well that the story was not at all spoiled. One minor quibble: in "Gunhand of Fate" (FACETS 9/10-11), we got the impression that Tommy was trying to go straight; so what was he doing running from a posse in "Circumstance"? Had someone simply recognized him on an old want and taken off after him without waiting for fresh provocation? This, I think, Jean Ann might have clarified, but, otherwise, the story deserves a Navy E.

Of the poems, I liked best the two parts of "Whatever Happens..." by M.E. Wickes. (Related to Dianne?) [Ed: They're sisters.] This is a personal prejudice; they express so well the way I think the romantic triangle should have been resolved. At the same time, I also liked "The Wedding Present." If I could accept Han and Leia as a pair, this would be the very sort of thing I would expect Han to do to prove himself worthy of his princess. Nice work, Joan.

"The Way That It Goes" didn't seem to go much of anywhere at all, yet as a vignette/character study, it is a very satisfactory brick in the Kenny-edifice Dianne and Sherry are constructing.

"Rendezvous," while perhaps just slightly contrived, I enjoyed for the Han-with-a-lightsaber business, which is a favorite motif of mine and one that not too many writers seem to take on.

"Plaine Talk" was a well-done piece of filler that served to explain very plausibly the apparent shift in Marion's attitudes toward Indy between the burning of The Raven and the shopping expedition in Cairo.

Other poetry I especially enjoyed included: "Reflections on a Medallion Reflected" (even though the meter was a little spoiled here and there, it did complement its prototype very well); "Boundaries of a Sleeping King's Domain," "Song of a Princess," "Bad Timing," "A Man Such as Dreams Are Made Of," "Soliloquy," "Kenny" (it may have been partly Wanda's illo—love the bunny rabbit), "Gettin' Back to England," "Why?" "Ice," and "Decision" (even though it's been done before). Can someone tell me where Lt. Shaffer came from? I don't remember his movie at all.

Favorite art has got to be everything of Wanda's. She's still the best Harrison artist of our day), with Martynn's Deckard at second place and Wendy at third.

All in all, you've managed to maintain the quality of 1 admirably, and I can hardly wait to see 3. Keep it up, ladies!

Liked most all of it, some things more than others, of course. "The Way That It Goes" is a fine follow-up to "Rainbow" and one I hadn't read previously. Liked Martie's lyrics as always and can't wait for her collected songbook, but "Ice" was a fine surprise—genuinely conceived as a poem, not lyrics, and laconically powerful in its foreboding.

Scheherazade gives me problems. It's all very well to list a bibliography of where the other "Tails" have appeared. Many who write series do this—and it's hard enough chasing down the scattered zines in which their episodic narratives appear. But Scheherazade's are NOT complete stories—they are incidents without resolution even in their own contexts, rendered disjointed by being chopped up and dealt out to zines like a deck of cards. This situation is especially apparent in contrasting the fragment that appeared in 1 with the new one in 2. Quite apart even from the pieces that have been printed in other zines, these two are merely serial installments of one story, not two self-contained ones. Stories in a series build on and make reference to earlier stories that have appeared elsewhere, the reader is interested in pursuing further background. But the "Tails" are themselves simply fragments because the reader has to hunt other zines for the basic plot in hand — not for just further background, but to understand what is going on in the given action! It's not reasonable to expect a reader to chase down one story through half a dozen sporadically printed zines— especially when that story is not being told in linear sequence. I'm annoyed chiefly because it hints at being a really fine story. Fresh theme, darkly compelling sense of fate and impending drama. The characters are strong and they are the main characters, not a fan-created character the author is tempted to cut down and overshadow the movie cast with. Perhaps a one-shot printing of the complete novel would be better, but I don't believe Scheherazade is best serving her "Tail" by this method of presentation. And it's obviously a "Tail" that deserves to be told. It hints at complex, multi-level action over a long period. It should be a novel and not told piecemeal.

Meanwhile, I'm happy to see more of Jacqueline Taero's poetry. And "Kismet"..., well, normally, I don't even read "kills" nor do I illo them. But Lisa's story softens the situation by having Indy

already gone and by her quite novel plot device. Indy alive and well and present after all... "from a certain point of view." Still, I found myself frankly hating the Ark. Marion had little chance for any happiness—lost husband and son. She suspected—I wonder if she ever really knew— and came to terms with having her husband back, literally, as her son. A truly supernatural Indy tale and certainly different. Very intriguing. "Plane Talk" offered a gentle antidote to any lingering sorrow.

Jean Ann's interest in Ford is strictly secondary to her interest in the two actors who co-starred on the old GUNSLINGER series. It's especially noticeable in her first "Gunhand" story in FACETS where all the emphasis is on Cord. At least, the action centering on everyone Ford works in the Martin Stett story — Stett is a peripheral character, his influence subtle and sinister and third-hand manipulation. This time out, Jean Ann keeps the viewpoint Tommy's. It's true that all his thoughts are on her two favorite characters rather than his own circumstances, or even more than the most passing reference to how and why he comes to be in those circumstances and what he feels about it. His thoughts are for Cord's plight and Pico's. He stands around admiring their friendship, even. If Tommy were a fan-created character, that would be more palatable, but at least Tommy is central to the action this time and a genuine "mover." Jean Ann tries hard to give him a fair shake in his own zine. On the plus side, it's being vaguely dissatisfying as a Ford character story aside, it's a taut, well-written, well-paced piece of Western genre writing. Jean Ann's familiarity with the form and flavor of a L'Amour Western, and details are described with conviction. As a piece of writing in its own right, it's a fine effort.