Shadowstar/Issues 25-26
Issue 25
Shadowstar 25 was published in Summer 1987 and contains 167 pages.
The art is by Mary Jean Holmes, L.J. Lybarger, Karen Pauli, Carol Paulson, John Sies, Mark Wallace, Sandra Williams, and Mary Wood.
- A Letter to the Editor (1)
- Obligatory Sick Cartoon (2)
- Penumbra (3)
- Birth of Darkness, Birth of Light by Marti Schuller (9)
- Strike Watch by Kathryn Sullivan (18)
- Daddy by Mary Jean Holmes (25)
- Know About Leia? Word Search Puzzle by Marci Erwin (44)
- Alone Again by Misty Lackey (Dawntreader) (46)
- Mixed Doubles, part one by Pat Nussman (46)
- Mixed Doubles, part two by Pat Nussman (59)
- A Day at the Emperor's Court by Veronica Wilson (61)
- The Intangible by Paula Freda (64)
- Dark Intruder, part one by Barbara Drake (70)
- Poem by Paula Freda (85)
- Someday by Catriona Campbell (86)
- The Lykoniad, conclusion by Michael Winkle (91)
- Found Her, Have You, Son? by Paula Freda (111)
- Understanding by Liz S. (112)
- The Return of the Contest Winners (117)
- Pictures at an Exhibition, part one by Mary Frances Zambreno (118)
- Requital by Jacqueline Taero (134)
- All Over Again by L.A. Carr (135)
- From Father to Son, part two, by Janice Lamel (141)
- Musings on an Identity: Luke by Jacqueline Taero (166)
- Musings on a Name: Leia by Jacqueline Taero (166)
- Ads (167)
from issue #25, Wanda Lybarger
from issue #25, Sandra Williams
from issue #25, Mark Wallace
from issue #25, Wanda Lybarger
from issue #25, Mary Wood
from issue #25, Mary Wood
Reactions and Reviews: Issue 25
Number 25, offers the continuation of Anakin's fall to the Dark and capture by Palpatine in "Birth of Darkness, Birth of Light," by Marti Schuller; while Barbara Drake adds a new chapter to Mary St. Cyr's universe with "Dark Intruder." Luke and Maari's daughter is plagued by voices that Luke's aunt fears is a Dark One who intends to live again in the child's body.
Mary Frances Zambreno brings her special wit to "Pictures at an Exhibit ion, Part One." What should be a working vacation for Luke, Leia and Han turns into chaos when one picture in the art exhibit they are guarding turns out to a sacrilegious rendition of a local goddess. A plague of fuschia frogs called down on poor Han, and that is only the start of complications.
In LL.. A. Carr's "All Over Again," Luke cannot remember who he is and why the armor-clad humans are trying to kill him. Wary of the man and and woman who claim to be his friend and his sister, he is prevented fleeing only by his injuries, until a Stormtrooper attack teaches him the truth.
"Mixed Doubles, Part One," by Pat Nussman, proves Leia is right to be suspicious of the local festivities and their unique drinks.
Mary Jean Holmes reveals a hitherto unexpected desire on Luke's part to be a best-selling novelist, as he recounts a strange incident involving Han and a most ugly plant in "Daddy."
Janice Lamel presents part two of "From Father To Son," as Kalen's simple pick-up turns complicated when old enemies of Han's kidnap Kalen's sister and cousin. And even further complications are promised as his parents and uncle head to Janera to bail him out. [1]
An excellent twenty-fifth issue! It has enough assorted material to please even the pickiest of readers. I enjoyed it immensely, even the letter column, for I find the other readers' comments of great interest. It's fascinating to find out their reasons for liking a particular piece or two in a 'zine, and whether or not our tastes are the same.
It's impossible to comment on everything in a 'zine unless one wants to write a novel. Since I'm not typing this, I'll try to save my writing hand.
"Daddy" — if we didn't know that Han was a softie before, this certainly leaves no doubt. It's touching, the way he puts aside the face he shows the world and reveals his inner self. Despite everything that's happened to him in his life, he still respects Corellian tradition and is proud of what he is. Luke's Jumping to conclusions and his insatiable curiosity are so very human. You have the ability to make everyone you write about come to life, making for much more enjoyable reading. "Alone Again" — uh-oh! How's Darla going to get out of this one? Even if she's rescued, she's still going to be addicted to Cloudnine — or is she? I have a feeling that her love for Derek is going to be a factor here, but I'm not quite sure how, yet.
"A Day at the Emperor's Court" — it's too bad that Anakin didn't get the chance to say these words to Leia in person. Perhaps it would make it easier for her to accept Darth Vader as her father. Surely, that will take her a while, for she didn't have Luke's know ledge of the good left in him to ease the shock of the revelation.
"Someday" — an interesting vignette on Luke's early life on Tatooine. Although Biggs was his best friend, there are very few stories that involve him. Most of the "early Luke" stories I've read take place when he is a baby or small child. I liked this one, mostly because Luke and Biggs were portrayed as two normal boys, doing the things that boys their age do, yet wanting to do more, not content to wait 'til they are older.
"Understanding" — sometimes, being responsible means doing something that will hurt others, though it's all for the good in the long run. There are always choices to be made, and a person can't help wondering if the one they made was the right one. "Pictures at an Exhibition" — I can see why this one was the winner for humor. It's hilarious! The mental picture of Han being followed by hordes of pink frogs was almost too much, and Luke's idea of a disguise.... Needless to say, this had me practically helpless and I can't wait to see the end. I think I've figured out where some of the pictures fit. Mary Frances didn't use them all in the part you printed, so a person has to read the conclusion to get them all. After I've read the second installment, I'll send you my list.
From Father to Son — uh-oh! Big trouble coming up here, folks. I wouldn't want to be the kidnappers when Han finally arrives on the scene!
One more thing before I go — like Judi Grove, I also enjoy the Corellian remarks and words Han uses in his speech, so here's a
question you're probably tired of hearing by now: how about a Corellese/English dictionary for us QutBlood types who don't under stand the language? [2]
In my previous LoCs, I have been quite derelict in mentioning the high standard of art. For this, I apologize to all the fine and aspiring artists. In this issue, I particularly enjoyed Mary Hood's work, very nice. Wanda Lybarger's art, too, especially the illo on page 43, is wonderful. And, of course, as always, I loved the comedy of Fenhoot and Co. by Sies.
"A Day at the Emperor's Court" by Veronica Wilson — once again, here is a poem from this astonishing young lady. Once more, it is beautifully written, and trust me, I say that seldom about free verse. It was interesting to see Leia from her father's view point.
"Someday" by Catriona Campbell — I really enjoyed this short story. Treena portrays young Luke so perfectly for me, and with true understanding for the child's perspective. This is one talented lady.
"Alone Again" by Misty Lackey — no fair! I'm unfamiliar with whatever setting, galaxy, etc. or original fiction locale this story stems from, but how unjust to get your reader so involved, only to leave one so hamstrung and frustrated! Please tell me there's a continuance.
"Daddy" by Mary Jean Holmes -- with all honesty, I must confess that this is the first of your stories that I've failed to swoon over. Why is difficult to say. The use of the first person narrative has never been my favorite, yet this did add new insight to Luke's character (as seen through your capable imaginings, of course), and I adore the secret Corellian name Han chose for his little daughter. Perhaps it was that I felt Leia was portrayed as a totally unsympathetic person, albeit one familiar to me, overplaying certain aspects of her personality to the detriment of her overall character. Chewie was handled well, yet still I came away wanting. The ceremony itself was touching and, as always, the writing was flawless, but I learned little that I had not already surmised of Han's background. Certainly, it was not a waste of time to read, but not my favorite of your works. Of course, this is merely my humble opinion, and worth less than the proverbial grain of salt.
- ((Ed: Really? 'Cause I have to confess, it's not my favorite piece, either. I, too, can't really tell you why, although I have a serious suspicion, this was written at the very onset of my long, long creative drought (which I tell more about in the preface to this issue's story, "Pandora's Box")} I rewrote it and edited it while still in the throes of depression. I think the piece reflects this, and perhaps someday, I shall rework it and give it the proper polishing it deserves. But when the were act of putting words on paper (or computer disk) is a huge effort, the art is sure to suffer. I think it did with "Daddy," and I hope to rectify that misstep, someday.))
"Strike Watch" by Kathryn Sullivan — her world fascinates me. It is populated by complex beings of distinct personality and species, well-written and interesting. I would like to read more about them all.
The Lykoniad by Michael Winkle — what a satisfying conclusion to a wondrously spun tale. I admit to a peculiar sympathy for the mindless wolf shell, once Bardolph regained his rightful body, but all in all, a terrific read. Very well done!
"The Intangible" by Paula Freda — I'm not sure how to comment on this piece, yet I feel compelled to say something. One thing I know beyond doubt is that this story will remain with me a long time, tumbling through the confused passages of my mind and heart. I know of no higher accolade for an author than to be aware that their words have so touched another.
From Father to Son, part two, by Janice Lamel — one suggestion - plea: please run either an author's or editor's recap of what has preceded. Although I thoroughly enjoyed part one of this story, a reminder to jog my overloaded gray matter would be greatly appreciated.
Ms. Lamel's poignant insightful description of Leia as wife and mother, especially as a Force-sensitive mother who's aware of her children's danger, is beautifully written. She portrayed the horror of maternal protectiveness when faced with essential impotence to act for the welfare of her offspring as a writer with either incredible understanding or long-suffering experience. Luke, I felt, was especially well-written, showing his strong bond with his sister, his strengths as a Jedi, but above all, his human depth. The children — Kalen, Troy, Tara, and even Lumpy — are all very believable and interesting characters in their own right. A pleasant change from many stories.
From the moment of the abduction, Ms. Lamel skillfully builds the suspense to nearly unbearable heights, while still maintaining the fluid flow of the story. My only small dis comfort arises from the rather buffoonish an tics of the "villains." How much more electrifying this story would have been, had they been truly malicious! Still, in all, this is a superior story, and I look forward to the conclusion. [3]
As usual, I'm enjoying your 'zine and can't think of anything I didn't like. I love the word search and maze puzzles.
"Birth of Darkness, Birth of Light" is one of the more believable pre-SW tales I've read. I've always liked Kathy Sullivan's elf-and-fleogende stories. I can see that the previous episodes were setting the scene, and events are brewing just now. "Daddy" is an amusing tale from Luke's point of view with MJ's usual plot-twists and characterizations. Misty Lackey's Daria and Derek stories are also among my favorites; however, I have a very bad feeling about the twist in #25. Did it have to be such a fatal drug? As an aside, I must admit I've enjoyed her Arrows of the Queen trilogy. Keep it up!
"Mixed Doubles" was amusing; even though I've never seen any Blake's 7 episodes, I have enjoyed the odd stories that appear here and there in the 'zines I read -- the odder, the better.
I was sorry to see the end of The Lykoniad come. What a delightfully convoluted, twisted plotline! I have read many a pro book not nearly as good as this tale. Michael should consider taking this book pro. It has excellent characterization and plotting -- and what an ending! I never thought Bardolf would still be able to change to a wolf when it was all over. Very good!
I'm always happy to see stories like "Understanding" because I've felt that Lando got a poor deal from the fans. His treatment was frequently a variation on Leia's treatment; she had to wait for years for sympathetic handling, too.
Mary Frances Zambreno is another of my favorites, and her "Pictures at an Exhibition" has the same great characterization I so enjoy. Her adventure stories flow so smoothly! I love off-beat ideas presented so seriously. Pink frogs! I love it! What a use for the Force! It's always nice to see beings other than Jedi using the Force, especially in such a different way. I also love stories where Han fits into Leia's world and uses his past to help the new Republic. I cannot believe Han would refuse to marry just because he has to be "free" and in space. [Hear, hear!!'] The Han we saw in TESB and RotJ is too mature for that nonsense.
I'm also enjoying From Father to Son. And, of course, I can see Han in Kalen. I could never understand teenagers like Kalen. Can't he see he'll be in worse trouble when the adults and his -- especially Lumpy - realize he lied to them? Kids don't think things through! But I can't wait to see the conclusion. Thanks! [4]
Issue 26
Shadowstar 26 was published in Spring 1988 and contains 226 pages. 65% Star Wars, the rest Real Ghostbusters, Airwolf, Jules Verne.
The art is by Mary Jean Holmes (front cover), L.J. Juliano, Wanda Lybarger, Margaret Purdy-Dean (front cover), Mary St. Syr, John Sies, Sandra Williams (back cover), Mary Wood (front cover).
From the editor: "We need submissions.... For those of you who might be sitting on Blake's 7 material: though I myself am remaining strategically neutral on the subject, we're getting more and more people expressing interest in the 'zine who are also looking for B7 stuff. I'd be happy to oblige them (I do have people around who can tell me what's in character and what isn't)..."
- A Letter from the Editor (1)
- Pictures at an Exhibition, conclusion by Mary Frances Zambreno (Star Wars) (3)
- Missing the Silence by L.J. Juliano (original science fiction) (28)
- Things that Dreams... by L.A. Carr (Star Wars) (33)
- Beyond the Maelstrom, part one by Michael Dayne Winkle (Jules Verne) (37)
- High-Tech Man, filk to the tune of "I'm an Old Cowhand," by Mary Robertson (66)
- Dark Intruder, conclusion by Barbara Drake (Star Wars) (67)
- Alone, poem by Lynda Vandiver (84)
- Vehicles of the Star Wars Saga Puzzle by Marci Erwin (85)
- Adventures in the Life of Opal, story in illos about a horse by Sandra Williams (86)
- Spy Trap by Roberta Stuemke (Star Wars) (17)
- Decisions by Misty Lackey (Dawntreader)) (138)
- Jedi's Return Quaze Puzzle by Marci Erwin (146)
- Runaway by Mary Jean Holmes (Star Wars) (147)
- Common Ground, poem by Lynda Vandiver (160)
- A Distant Voice, part one by Mary St. Cyr and Margaret Purdy-Dean (Star Wars crossed with some sort of elves) (161)
- Two Poems by Thomas M. Egan (187)
- Old Women in the Park by Paula Freda (reprinted from "Affaire de Coeur") (188)
- From Father to Son, conclusion by Janice Lamel (Star Wars) (192)
- How to Handle a Villain, to the tune of "How to Handle a Woman" and Six Foot Eight, to the tune of "Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue", two filks by Mary Robertson (226)
from issue #26, L.J. Juliano
from issue #26, Mary Jean Holmes
from issue #26, L.J. Juliano
from issue #26, Mary Jean Holmes
from issue #26, Margaret Purdy-Dean
from issue #26, Sandra Williams
Reactions and Reviews: Issue 26
Shadowstar 26 contains three of these continuing series, including Mary Frances Zambreno's "Pictures at an Exhibition." The plot of this series defies brief description, except to say what other SW story has pink frogs, curses, matter transmissions involving a rope and a fountain, and a ticked-off goddess, "She Who Creates." Let's just say that this has been a wild and crazy ride. Janice Lamel's saga, "From Father to Son," is a much more traditional adventure, when Han, Luke and Chewie must rescue their offspring from danger. Barbara Drake also concludes her story as Luke and his aunt face the dead, but not powerless, Palpatine in "Dark Intruder."
Mary St. Cyr and Margaret Purdy-Dean begin a two-part series, "A Distant Voice," in which a crash landing strands Luke, Chewie and Han for life; they must find allies among the natives whose legends of the Palace provide their only hope for rescue.
The remaining entries focus on either Luke or Han. In Mary Jean Holmes's "Runaway," Han recounts the events of his childhood; and in Roberta Stuemke's "Spytrap," Han is linked to several Imperial hits, and only Leia can prove him innocent. L.A. Carr's "Things That Dream" is a sweet story of a fledgling Jedi's meetings with the legendary Jedi Master, Luke Skywalker, and her empathic sense of his pain and loneliness. [5]
References
- ^ from "The Wookiee Commode Consumer Guide to 1987 SW Fanzines," in The Wookiee Commode #5
- ^ from "Shadowstar" #27
- ^ from "Shadowstar" #27
- ^ from "Shadowstar" #28
- ^ from "1988 in SW Zines," in The Wookiee Commode #6 (1989)