San Diego Comic-Con: An Immersive World of Pop Culture and Creativity

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

 

San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC), an event that started modestly in 1970 as the Golden State Comic Book Convention, has since blossomed into a pop-culture juggernaut. This highly anticipated annual event has become a mecca for comic book enthusiasts, movie buffs, video game lovers, and pop culture aficionados from around the globe.

Comic-Con International: San Diego, to give it its full name, draws hundreds of thousands of attendees each year. They flood into the city, transforming the San Diego Convention Center into a vibrant hub of cosplay, comic books, and creativity.

I’m excited about Comic Con this year, as it’s the first year I get to attend! I was invited to be a guest and on a Friday panel, “Welcome to the Weird West.” Those of you who have read my books know that’s an ideal panel for me. The panel is at 2:00 p.m. Friday, July 21, and we’ll be signing autographs after.

Though I haven’t gone to a Comic Con yet, I’ve done my research, and want to share that with all of you.

The Comic-Con Experience

 

Comic-Con is not just about comic books. It’s about all sorts of geek genres and media. It covers novels, major and indie films, video games, cosplay, art, and so much more. You’ll find anime, horror, fantasy, science fiction, and related genres througout the con.

Attendees can explore hundreds of stalls from comic book publishers, film studios, toy manufacturers, and other vendors selling an array of merchandise. From rare comic books and original artwork to one-of-a-kind collectibles and clothing, the Comic-Con exhibit hall is a collector’s paradise.

One of the major draws of Comic-Con is its extensive schedule of panels, which cover a wide variety of topics and themes. If you attend this year (2023), please stop by the panel I’m on, “Welcome to the Weird West!”

I certainly plan to go through the list of panels and attend some others. They feature industry professionals including writers, artists, directors, and actors discussing their work, offering insights, and occasionally revealing exclusive news and previews. Whether you’re a fan of mainstream superhero comics, indie graphic novels, blockbuster movies, cult TV shows, or video games, there’s sure to be a panel that suits your interests.

Hollywood at Comic-Con

 

Over the years, Comic-Con has become a crucial stop on the promotional circuit for Hollywood. Major film and television studios use the convention as an opportunity to promote upcoming projects, often bringing star-studded casts along for panels and autograph signings. Attendees might find themselves in the same room as their favorite Hollywood stars or get a first glimpse of an anticipated movie trailer.

Cosplay and the Masquerade

 

Cosplay, short for “costume play,” is another integral part of the Comic-Con experience. Attendees often spend months crafting elaborate costumes to show off their love for a particular character or franchise. The workmanship, creativity, and passion on display are truly astounding.

Every year, the best costumes are showcased during the Comic-Con Masquerade, a stage show and competition that’s one of the convention’s biggest highlights. It’s not just about the costumes; many participants also incorporate skits and performances into their entries, making the Masquerade a spectacular event to watch.

The Impact of Comic-Con

 

Comic-Con is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of fandom and creativity that has significant cultural and economic impacts. For the city of San Diego, the convention is a massive tourism boost, bringing in over $140 million each year.

But more importantly, Comic-Con provides a space for fans to come together, to share their passions, and to express themselves creatively. It’s an opportunity for individuals from all walks of life to immerse themselves in the stories and characters they love, to meet the creators behind these works, and to be part of a wider community.

Today, San Diego Comic-Con stands as a testament to the enduring appeal and broadening scope of pop culture. From a small gathering of comic book fans, it has exploded into a vital nexus of media and fandom, offering attendees an unparalleled opportunity to dive headfirst into the worlds they love. If you have a passion for comics, film, television, or simply for incredible creativity, Comic-Con is an event that needs to be on your bucket list.

 

“If your culture doesn’t like geeks, you are in real trouble.” ~ Bill Gates.

 

San Francisco in the Creedverse: A Gritty Portrayal of the City in the 19th Century

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

 

 

When we think of the late 19th century San Francisco, we often picture a thriving city abuzz with activity, a city evolving amidst the Gold Rush. This vibrant image, however, is a sugar-coated version of reality during that era. In my alternate history, a parallel universe I call the Creedverse, I have stripped away the sweet veneer to present a more genuine, gritty image of 19th century San Francisco.

This is a steampunk western world that includes elements like robots (called automatons at the time) and zombies. On the spectrum of Noblebright to Grimdark worlds, the Creedverse moves about between Graybright and Grimdark. There is optimism, love, and hope alongside tragedy.

San Francisco in the Creedverse is a City of Contrasts

 

The first novel in my series, The Adventures of Bodacious Creed is Bodacious Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western, and it takes place in an alternate version of Santa Cruz, California. For the sequels, Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake, and Bodacious Creed and the San Francisco Syndicate, I wanted to move the story to San Francisco, and so my research began. I discovered a fascinating place riddled with crime, a perfect setting for the continuing story of James Creed.

The Creedverse’s San Francisco is a city of stark contrasts. Within its boundaries, we see bustling commercial areas teeming with gamblers, prostitutes, and crimpers. We also find opulent mansions that represent the pinnacle of wealth and success, but we also witness the grim realities of life in the city’s impoverished districts, like the Barbary Coast and Chinatown.

My goal, in part, was to offer a portrait of the city that celebrates its vibrant life while not shying away from its darker aspects. Many made and lost fortunes in early San Francisco, sometimes because of catastrophes, like the many fires that plagued the city by the bay. For some, survival was a constant struggle.

The Pulse of the City

 

San Francisco 1877

San Francisco in the Creedverse is home to a diverse cast of characters who each add a unique shade to San Francisco’s colorful palette. Amid the clatter of horse-drawn carriages, the streetlamps that didn’t yet exist in our world, but do there, and the music heard at night in the Barbary Coast district, personal stories unfold. There’s the indomitable James “Bodacious” Creed, a lawman-turned-bounty hunter, Emperor Norton, a fascinating and real historical figure, and Creed’s found family, the Brotherhood of the Golden Cog. The newspapers feature commentary by Ambrose Bierce, Creed meets Mary Ellen Pleasant, and just under the surface is the ugly reality of human trafficking.

A Breeding Ground for Innovation

 

The Creedverse’s San Francisco isn’t just a city of riches and poverty, hope and despair. It is also a city of innovation, where science and technology are reshaping the world. Steampunk contraptions dot the cityscape, some legal, some black market. It’s like a giant laboratory for inventions that push the boundaries of what’s possible, supplied by Morgan’s Automatons and others.

Social Dynamics in a Changing City

 

Selena Moreno from The Adventures of Bodacious CreedSan Francisco in the Creedverse is a city undergoing rapid transformation. The societal norms of the Victorian era clash with the evolving attitudes towards gender roles and class divisions. Here, social dynamics are a complex tapestry woven with threads of ambition, greed, desire, and resilience.

Women like Anna Boyd and Selena Moreno challenge the gender norms. Organizations like the E. Clampus Vitus play a crucial role in protecting the disadvantaged.

In the Creedverse, San Francisco isn’t merely a backdrop to the story. It is a character in its own right, with its own ambitions, its own struggles, and its own triumphs. Its gritty portrayal offers a deep dive into the complexities of city life in the 19th century, its technological advancements, and the stark realities of its social structure. It is a San Francisco that thrives amidst chaos, a city as captivating as the characters who call it home.

The Novels

 

If you’re interested in reading The Adventures of Bodacious Creed, you can purchase them all together or one at a time on Amazon, Audible, or other online retailers. Whether you go on to read them or not, I hope you found this post enlightening and enjoyable!

And, if you’d like to learn more about the Creedverse, click over to my World Anvil site! That’s where I keep my series bible. Yes, most of the information my private reference for writing my novels and short stories. However, there’s a description of the Creedverse on the main page, an Appendix section with a lot of information, and my favorite area for the curious, a For Readers section. Check it out, and read up on James “Bodacious” Creed and other prominent characters!

“There is no logic to San Francisco generally, a city built with putty and pipe cleaners, rubber cement and colored construction paper. Its the work of fairies, elves, happy children with new crayons.” ~ Dave Eggers

ChatGPT as a Writing Assistant

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

 

Hello, fellow sci-fi writers! Writing a good science fiction story is like putting together a massive puzzle with a gazillion pieces. You have characters with all their thoughts and feelings, plot twists, futuristic gadgets, and maybe some aliens to deal with. Sure, AI isn’t ready to whip up a killer sci-fi novel just yet, but guess what? ChatGPT can be your trusty sidekick in writing. Here’s how this cool tool can help you out.

Getting the Ideas Flowing: Brainstorming Help

 

When you’re starting out, sometimes the ideas aren’t flowing as smoothly as you’d like. Why use ChatGPT as a writing assistant? Well, this platform is like that friend who’s always got something to say – but in a good way. Need to figure out how your hero escapes a space prison? Or how a secret alien society might work? Give ChatGPT the lowdown on what you’re working on, and it’ll throw ideas at you like there’s no tomorrow.

In fact, I recommend using ChatGPT at any phase during the writing process where you’re stuck for a word, a motivation, or anything else where brainstorming will come in handy.

 

Creating Characters: Not Just the Stars

 

Characters are the heart of your story. The main ones will probably get a lot of your attention, but what about the rest? ChatGPT can help you flesh out the other guys in your story. Give it a basic idea of a character, and it can help you add some meat to the bones. From background stories to how they fit into your main plot, ChatGPT can churn out the details.

One thing I like using ChatGPT for, concerning characters, is as a name generator. For years, there have been name generators online, for everything from names for elves to those for people living in the Wild West. With ChatGPT, you don’t have to seek another name generator. Just give it a prompt like, “Provide me with ten uncommon male names for a kid growing up in Boston in 1984,” or whatever other specific type of name you’re looking for.

Doing Your Homework: Research Made Easy

 

Getting your facts straight is crucial, even in sci-fi. Need to know how something worked way back when? Or maybe some scientific concept you want to incorporate? ChatGPT is like a walking encyclopedia. Well, not walking. Using ChatGPT as a writing assistant, you can gain a greater understanding of historical events, science, and other details that can make your story more believable.

Doing Your Homework: Research Made Easy

 

Staying organized is key when you’re creating a whole new world. Platforms like World Anvil let you build a series bible – it’s like your story’s playbook. ChatGPT can speed things up by helping you write entries for different parts of your world, like character info, history, gadgets, you name it. Just make sure you double-check everything to keep your story on track.

 

Wrapping It Up: Your Right-Hand Helper

 

So here’s the deal: ChatGPT won’t pen a best-seller for you, but it’s like having a super-smart buddy who’s always there to help. From brainstorming to creating characters, doing research, and keeping things organized, ChatGPT is a handy tool for any sci-fi writer. You’re the captain of this ship, but ChatGPT can be a pretty awesome co-pilot.

 

I think you’ll enjoy ChatGPT as a writing assistant, and all it has to offer. Happy writing, and may your stories be as epic as the galaxies you create!

“Meet regularly with your business team and brainstorm.” ~ Richard Branson

 

Writing Robot Characters in Steampunk

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

 

Hey there, all you creative minds! As an author, I’ve come across a multitude of fascinating characters. But today, we’re going to talk about something special: creating memorable robot characters in steampunk. If you’re into gears, goggles, steam, and clockwork, then crafting robotic wonders is right up your alley.

What’s In a Name?

 

First things first, let’s talk nomenclature. In the world of steampunk, robots are typically referred to as “automatons.” They’re intricate, steam-powered mechanical beings, often humanoid, with a certain Victorian-era charm. In my series, The Adventures of Bodacious Creed, these machines are affectionately termed “steelies” (singular: “steely”). Different names add flair and authenticity to the world you’re creating. The term “robot” wasn’t coined until 1920.

Fleshing Out the Mechanics of Your Robot Charcters

 

Now, on to the nuts and bolts – literally! Not to mention the engines and circuitry. Steampunk automatons are all about clockwork and steam power. When designing your robot character, think about how it operates. Does it have steam vents? Is it powered by an internal furnace? These mechanical details give life to your automaton and make it feel like a real part of the steampunk universe.

Giving Robot Characters a Personality

 

Robot characters in science fiction can sometimes feel cold and unemotional, but in the realm of steampunk, they can be as lively as any human character. If you’re writing a series, you may want to start with them doing simple tasks, and show how their programming advances over time. Think of quirky mannerisms, speech patterns, or even wardrobe choices. Yes, your automaton can have a sense of style. This can go a long way in endearing them to readers.

Lucky and Dixie from "The Adventures of Bodacious Creed"

The Purpose They Serve

 

An automaton needs to have a purpose in the story. Is it a loyal sidekick? A formidable adversary? A wise guide? In my world, the Creedverse, steelies serve as medical assistants, guards, and guides. I even have one (so far, just in my series bible) that assists in a small chocolate factory and has injectors in its fingers for different fillings. Define its role in your narrative, and tailor its features and character traits accordingly.

Interaction with Human Characters

 

One of the most engaging aspects of an automaton character is its interaction with human characters. How do people in your steampunk world view these mechanical beings? Are they trusted companions or are they met with suspicion? This dynamic not only builds your automaton’s character but also reflects the society in your fictional world.

Their Own Journey

 

Finally, consider giving your robot characters their own story arcs. Perhaps it’s seeking to become more human, or it has to overcome some mechanical limitation. Whatever the case, giving your automaton a goal adds depth and makes them more relatable.

There you have it! Crafting an automaton character in a steampunk world is an adventure. From the intricate mechanics to a dash of personality, your robot can be a memorable addition to your story.

Just a brief note before I go: remember that building characters, be it human or mechanical, is an art. Take your time, let your imagination soar, and don’t be afraid to make bold choices.

If you’re looking for a place to keep track of your fictional world (or worlds!), including its characters, locations, timeline, and much more, I encourage you to check out World Anvil. Start with a free account and see what you think! World Anvil is where I keep my series bible on the Creedverse. While most of the information is private, there is a lot of information available to the public. Check out the For Readers section and the Appendix!

Until next time, keep those gears turning and your creative engines steaming!

 

“’Don’t blame you,’ said Marvin and counted five hundred and ninety-seven thousand million sheep before falling asleep again a second later.” ~ Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

 

The Challenges of Blending History and Steampunk

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

 

Hey there, fellow creators and steampunk aficionados! If you’ve perused my works, particularly The Adventures of Bodacious Creed trilogy, you know I have a penchant for mixing the Wild West with the riveting gears and gadgets of steampunk. But weaving historical accuracy and the clockwork advancements present in the steampunk genre is tricky. Let’s dive into the challenges and discuss how to intertwine the past with some steam-powered sci-fi flair, and explore the vagaries of blending history and steampunk.

What’s the point of combining History and Steampunk?

 

Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction that revolves around steam-powered machinery. It is usually set in an alternate history, often the 19th century, and features advanced technology based on the steam power of the era. The history of the time creates a rich backdrop for the innovations and evokes a sense of nostalgia while allowing for surprising differences.

The Stakes and Gears: Historical Accuracy vs. Steampunk Technology

 

Knowing Your History

An authentic steampunk narrative demands a well-researched historical foundation. If you’re going to make historical changes, it’s good to know what you’re changing. Chances are, you’ll find a lot of history to incorporate in your stories. For example, I read a ton about San Francisco in the mid-to-late 19th Century before writing the second and third Bodacious Creed novels.

Dive into the social norms, clothing, politics, events, and speech of the era you are focusing on. The aim is to transport your readers back in time before while introducing the gadgets, and changes, that make your steampunk world unique.

 

Altering Historical Events

One of the intriguing aspects of steampunk is how it allows us to play with the past. Imagine altering historical events thanks to steampunk technology. The key is to consider how the technology could plausibly change outcomes and shape society differently.

How much can you get away with? Well, how much different are various timelines in the Marvel Cinematic Universe? You can change a lot, but you need to know why things are different.

 

Characters Ground the Narrative

Characters serve as the bridge between the real and the reimagined. Crafting characters that embody the ethos of the era (whichever era you choose), while seamlessly interacting with steampunk elements, is critical. Your characters should not only reflect the historical setting but feel like real people, with genuine issues. Ground the story with realism, and the fantastical elements will become more believable.

 

Understand The Fantastical Elements

While steampunk has elements of whimsy, my world, the Creedverse, is rooted in science fiction. Yours may have fantasy elements. You should have a good idea of how the new technology works.

 

Be Aware of Historical and Modern Sensibilities

Altering history should be done with care. The past has its dark moments, and the way people thought and talked in past decades and centuries can seem antiquated to modern readers. You can write about the past with sensitivity. Part of the trick is to use modern words as a narrator, when antiquated words would seem racist or otherwise insensitive. However, characters can speak how they did back then. You are not the characters. You’re the author, and you can show how people thought in the past, even if they were wrong.

 

Fine-Tuning The Steam Engine

Merging history and steampunk is akin to fine-tuning an intricate steam engine. The gears need to fit. Immerse yourself in historical research, thoughtfully introduce steampunk elements, create characters that are both of the era and forward-thinking, and tread carefully around historical sensitivities. When you’re writing, Google will be your best friend. If you’re not sure if a particular bit of slang was in use, if a certain historical figure was even alive, or if some helpful machine even exists, look it up. (And, if that machine hasn’t been invented… you can say it was there earlier in your world. For example, in mine, business mogul Miles Morgan recruited a young Nikola Tesla, who then invented the light bulb in 1873.)

So, saddle up, authors, and let’s hit the steam-powered trails of history together.

“Science fiction isn’t just thinking about the world out there. It’s also thinking how that world might be.” ~Samuel R. Delaney

The Art of Writing Memorable Villains

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

 

 

In science fiction, fantasy, thriller, mystery, and other genres, villains play a crucial role in driving the narrative. Their stories provide a counterpoint to the hero’s stories. Memorable antagonists should be well-rounded, and even sympathetic. At least, much of the time.

As an author of the niche steampunk western genre, I’d like to explore with you the art of writing steampunk western villains, including ideas that can help you create memorable foes for your stories. Writing memorable villains is a challenge, but one that’s worth the effort.

Understanding the Role of the Villain

 

A well-developed villain serves as more than just an obstacle for the protagonist. They should have their own goals, motivations, and conflicts that drive their actions. Consider their background, desires, and how they relate to the world you’ve created in your steampunk western setting.

In my series, The Adventures of Bodacious Creed, there are several antagonists. The driving factors behind their actions include psychopathy, fear, and greed. The main villain, Creed’s nemesis in the trilogy, is a savvy sociopath and narcissist who wants money and power, and doesn’t care whom he hurts, violates, or kills to get it.

Complex Motivations

 

To make sure you’re writing memorable villains, give them depth by providing them with complex motivations that go beyond simple notions of good and evil. Explore their past, personal struggles, or ideals that have led them down the path of villainy. This will make them more relatable and multi-dimensional to readers.

Moral Ambiguity

 

Steampunk western villains can blur the lines between right and wrong. Introduce shades of gray into their actions, allowing readers to question their own moral compass. This moral ambiguity can create intrigue and add depth to your villains.

Technology may be at the center of their criminal activities. This is steampunk, after all, a retrofuturistic genre that imagines a past where technology advanced quickly, typically in the 1800s to about 1920. This certainly plays a big part in my own novels.

Unique and Memorable Traits

 

Make your villains stand out by giving them unique and memorable characteristics. These could be physical attributes, quirks, or specific skills that set them apart from other characters. Emphasize these traits to make them more distinctive in the readers’ minds.

It’s fun to come up with characters that you normally wouldn’t think of. Look for pictures of random people online, or go people watching at a cafe, and see if that sparks any ideas. You may see looks that normally wouldn’t come to mind, but that inspire you to create a unique character, villain or not. There are also books available for writers with lists of character traits that can help expand your imagination.

Counterbalance to the Protagonist

 

Consider how your villain can complement or challenge the strengths and weaknesses of your protagonist. A engaging antagonist brings out the best or worst in the main character, creating more resonance in the story.

Engaging Backstory

 

Why is your villain the way they are? Why do they want things that are obviously hurting others? Craft a compelling backstory that reveals their motivations and influences their actions. You don’t have to reveal everything about their past in the story, though some hints can enhance the narrative. When you understand their formative experiences, personal tragedies, or defining moments, you’ll write them more convincingly.

Powerful Gadgets

 

I mentioned that a steampunk villain will use the era’s emerging technology, or perhaps be affected by it. So, incorporate steampunk elements into your villains’ arsenals. Equip them with advanced technologies, unique gadgets, or even clockwork enhancements that amplify their abilities. These tools can make them formidable adversaries and add to the overall steampunk atmosphere of your story.

In my series, the criminal organization has a variety of gadgets at their disposal that make them a real pain for the heroes.

Psychological Depth

 

To explore the psychological aspects of your villains, develop their fears, insecurities, or psychological wounds. These things drive their actions, and knowing about them can help you make them more intriguing to readers.

Formidable Challenges

 

Craft scenes in which your antagonists present formidable challenges to the heroes. Design confrontations that test the protagonists’ skills, morality, and determination. Allow your villains to be a force to be reckoned with, increasing tension and suspense in the story.

You’re closer to seriously writing memorable villains! What’s next?

Redemption or Tragic Endings

 

Consider the fate of your villains. Will they find redemption or face a tragic end? Exploring the consequences of their actions can add depth to their character arcs and leave a lasting impact on readers.

If you choose a redemption arc, don’t make their conversion sudden. They should go through a lot that tests and challenges their behavior, so that through great difficulties, they come to see the world, and their actions, differently.

Writing memorable villans requires careful consideration of their motivations, traits, and the dynamic they bring to the story. And steampunk western villains need traits, motivations, and tools that fit into the genre. You want multi-dimensional characters with complex backstories. That way, you can elevate your antagonists to a level that engages readers and leaves a lasting impression. Remember, a compelling villain is not just an adversary but a key ingredient in driving the narrative and making your steampunk western world come alive.

“One may smile, and smile, and be a villain.” ~ William Shakespeare 

A Guide to Writing Autistic Characters

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

Today, June 2, 2023, I had the honor of joining Janet Forbes on the World Anvil Podcast! If you’re not familiar with World Anvil, it’s a world building platform for authors and game masters, and really a lot of fun to be part of. Please check out the fictional world of my steampunk zombie western novels, The Creedverse. Most of the information is private, for my use when writing my stories, but there’s some fun stuff there for readers.

 

 

 

 

Anyway, since I’m on the autism spectrum, and an autism parent, Janet asked me to be her guest on an episode about writing autistic characters. We had a lively conversation and some excellent comments and questions from viewers. While the podcast was live, it now lives here on YouTube:

World Anvil Podcast: Creating Autistic Characters with Jonathan Fesmire

I mentioned I had taken a lot of notes in preparing for the show, and that I’d share them on my blog to help fellow authors get a better idea of what autism is, isn’t, and how to write autistic characters with honesty and sensitivity.

 

 

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects individuals in various ways, influencing their social interactions, communication abilities, interests, and behaviors. The phrase “spectrum” refers to the wide range of symptoms and severity.

I would love to see more, and better, representation for autistic people in fiction, but if you’re considering adding an autistic character to your story, it’s crucial to do so with care, sensitivity, and a commitment to accuracy. Here are 14 points that will help.

Understand Autism

This may be a tall order, but when you write about anything you don’t know a lot about, you should be researching it, anyway. So, before you write an autistic character, spend some time learning about autism. Read books, research papers, articles, and blogs about it. Watch documentaries and listen to podcasts. Read or listen to the stories shared by autistic individuals. Understand that autism is not a disease, but a different way of experiencing the world.

Reject Stereotypes

Stereotypes about autism abound in popular culture. Did you know that the man the movie Rain Man was based on wasn’t actually autistic? Kim Peek had a condition called Savant syndrome. Autistic people are often portrayed as savants, socially clueless, or emotionally detached. While some autistic individuals might exhibit these traits, understand that autism encompasses a broad spectrum of behaviors and abilities. Every autistic person is unique, and their experiences with autism are not universal. A common refrain in the community is, “If you know one person with autism, you know one person with autism.”

Portray a Full Character

Just as with any character, an autistic character should be well-rounded and have traits unrelated to their diagnosis. They should have strengths, weaknesses, desires, fears, hobbies, and a character arc that extends beyond their autism. Autism is part of their identity, not their entire identity.

Show a Range of Behaviors and Traits

Autism manifests differently in different people. Refer to the previously mentioned refrain. While some autistic people may have difficulty with social interaction or exhibit repetitive behaviors, others may not. Some might be nonverbal and communicate through alternate means, while others might love to talk, especially about their specific interests. Portraying a range of behaviors can help avoid a one-dimensional or stereotypical portrayal.

Avoid Deficit-Based Language

When describing an autistic character, use language that affirms their humanity and worth. Avoid pathologizing or reducing them to a set of deficits or symptoms. Using person-first language (e.g., “a person with autism”) or identity-first language (e.g., “an autistic person”) can depend on individual preference. Some of us are even Okay using the term “autists.” When in doubt, consider the preferences of the autistic community.

Highlight Strengths

Autistic people often have unique strengths. These can include exceptional memory, deep focus, detail orientation, creativity, and a strong sense of justice. Highlighting these strengths can provide a balanced portrayal and show the character as capable.

In today’s podcast, we talked about autistic superpowers, and it’s great to include things your characters are particularly good at. Two of the primary characters in my steampunk western world, Anna Boyd and Jonathan Johns, are on the spectrum, and they’re both brilliant. I’ve been told that writing is my superpower. I also think deeply and understand the world better through analysis. My son has a memory for dates, places, addresses, and names that blows me away, and he’s an exceptional math student.

Consider Sensory Experiences

Many autistic people experience sensory stimuli differently. Some might be hypersensitive to light, sound, touch, taste, or smell, while others may be hyposensitive and seek sensory stimulation. When concentrating, they may filter out more than most, or they may have trouble filtering out certain stimuli. This altered sensory experience can significantly affect how they interact with their environment. You should consider it when creating autistic characters.

Be Mindful of Mental Health

While most autistic people are perfectly happy being autistic, we often have comorbid conditions that need treatment. We often experience mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, or ADHD. If this is the case for your character, make sure you research these conditions and represent them accurately. We might be happy with our autism, but not with these difficult mental disorders.

Seek Input

Once you’ve written your autistic character, seek feedback from the autistic community. You may have friends on the spectrum and not realize it, but if you reach out to, say, people on an autism Facebook group, you may find that many appreciate that you want to represent people with autism correctly, and respectfully. They can provide valuable insights and point out any inaccuracies or stereotypes that you may have inadvertently included.

Promote Acceptance and Inclusion

Your portrayal of an autistic character can have a significant impact on readers’ perceptions. It’s said that people who read a lot of fiction are more compassionate and accepting, as if they’ve lived in the minds of many people. When writing autistic charaters, you have the opportunity to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote acceptance and inclusion of autistic individuals. Show that they, like everyone else, can lead fulfilling lives and contribute meaningfully to society.

Autism is Not a Tragedy

One harmful trope that often finds its way into narratives about autism is that it is a tragedy or something to be overcome. It’s essential to understand that many autistic people don’t view their autism as something to be “cured” or “fixed” but as an integral part of their identity. Treat autism as a different way of being, rather than a problem to be solved. Writing autistic characters includes understanding this fact.

Treat the character arc of an autistic character like you would with a neurotypical character. Just don’t have them “cured” in the end. That’s an overused, and frankly offensive, character arc. Your character should certainly make mistakes, learn from them, and grow, while remaining autistic.

Respect Privacy and Autonomy

Even if certain behaviors or traits of your autistic character may seem unusual or confusing to others, it’s important to remember that they don’t always require explanation or justification. Autistic people, like everyone else, deserve respect for their autonomy and privacy. It’s okay to leave some elements unexplained and allow your character to maintain their dignity and autonomy. It’s all right to show the inner reasons for some behaviors, of course, which often have to do with how the person experiences the world. If you don’t have autism, or even if you do and don’t have certain traits you’re trying to portray, do your research!

Be Aware of Communication Styles

Keep in mind that communication styles can vary widely among autistic individuals. Some may be nonverbal and use augmentative and alternative communication methods, while others may speak fluently. Some might have a unique speech pattern or use echolalia, repeating words or phrases. Reflect these varying communication styles in your writing, but tread lightly. It can be a fine line between honest portrayal and appearing to make fun of the character’s quirks.

Show Different Relationships

Autistic individuals, like all people, have romantic relationships, friendships, family relationships, and more. Show these relationships in your story to provide a full and realistic portrayal of your character’s life.

 

Oh, there’s one trope I’d like to address. Try to avoid the token autistic character. Yes, you may primarily focus on one character with autism, but some of your side characters may be on the spectrum, too. Even if you don’t say outright that they have autism, showing some mild autistic behaviors can add depth and make your story more real. If your story takes place in a time or place where autism hasn’t been identified, you don’t have to even name it. Just give an honest portrayal.

Yes, writing autistic characters can be a tricky task requiring sensitivity, understanding, and thorough research. However, by doing so, you can create a more diverse and realistic world in your story, providing representation for a group that has historically been misunderstood or misrepresented. Accuracy and respect are key. I hope this guide helps you create rich, well-rounded characters that resonate with readers and contribute positively to the representation of autistic individuals in literature.

If you’d like to read a prequel short story to my steampunk western series, The Adventures of Bodacious Creed, you can for free. The Obstructed Engine features the two characters I mentioned in this article, and you can get it here:

The Obstructed Engine

 

 

Gaslight Steampunk Expo 2021

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

My Rambling Report

 

Before I start this post in earnest, it’s important you know where to get my books and my dice accessories, the very same I was selling at this convention. You’ll find links on my homepage where you can purchase Bodacious Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western and Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake in various formats, including Audible.

 

 

Order custom-painted dice towers in a variety of styles from my Etsy shop.

 

 

 And now, 

onto the news!

This was my first Gaslight Steampunk Expo, and what a fun event. Last Thusday, I drove down to San Diego from Anaheim, about an hour and a half trip, so not bad, and my son and I got settled in our room and got our table set up before the vendor’s room opened.

By the way, If this post seems disjointed, it’s because I’m still adjusting to post-con life. Conventions are fun, whether you’re a member, getting to check out the dealers’ room and panels, a guest, getting to be on panels, or a vendor, meeting the public and selling your wares.

My COVID Hobby

 

 

 

Like many, in 2020 I began what I think of as my “COVID hobby,” which simply means a hobby I started because lockdown gave me some free time. I got into 3D printing and miniature painting, things I had been interested in for years but rarely had time for. Being a business-minded creative, within a few months, I folded the new hobby into my business. So, I’m a steampunk western novelist who prints, paints, and sells dice towers.

My Merch

 

Both the towers and the books drew people to my table at Gaslight and I made some great sales. Plus, I met a lot of kind and interesting people. I also got to see other vendors I know from the convention circuit whom I hadn’t seen in a while. And, yes, naturally I bought some neat stuff, too, including books, dice, goggles, character figures, and beard balm.

 

This was my and my son’s first multi-day convention since he was oh, six months old or so, I think. He’s 13 now and proved to be an excellent helper.

 

During downtime, I made a few TikTok videos every day and I finished reading the DND 5e Dungeon Master’s Guide.

My Photos

 

In addition to making TikTok videos to showcase my booth, the convention, and to just have some fun, I took a lot of photos. To give you a sense of what the convention was like, here are a bunch of them! Enjoy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gear Oils
Author Robert Adauto
Tara Baumann
Author Michelle Lowe
Author Madeleine Holly-Rosing
Author Madeleine Holly-Rosing
Alejandro Lee
Makers Rustin and Becky Albrecht
Tara Baumann
Art of Alejandro Lee
Art of Alejandro Lee
My Raffle Giveaways
Tara Baumann
Tara Baumann
Brewery Dice Tower
Mech Dice Tower
Plague Doctor Dice Tower
Haunted House Dice Tower
Kracken Dice Tower
Pirate Ship Dice Tower

 

 

 

 

“OMG YOU GUYS it has come to my attention that SOMEONE on the internet is saying that my fictional 19th century zombies are NOT SCIENTIFICALLY SOUND. Naturally, I am crushed. To think, IF ONLY I’d consulted with a zombologist or two before sitting down to write, I could’ve avoided ALL THIS EMBARRASSMENT.” ~ Cherie Priest

Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

 

 

bodacious creed and the jade lake

 

The sequel to Bodacious Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western, and the second novel in my series, The Adventures of Bodacious Creed, is out! Yesterday, August 7, 2021, was release day.

This is something I need to document, so here I am!

Yes, Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake is out, available on Amazon in Kindle and trade paperback formats, available for Nook on Barnes & Noble’s site (and hopefully trade paperback soon… I’m working on it…), and available from other sellers like Apple and Kobo. It’s up on Goodreads, too, and has already earned several glowing reviews.

Here’s the cover, by Mark Reid at Author Packages. I love this and look forward to working with him again.

 

Party!

 

I ran a release party yesterday on Facebook, something I first did for Bodacoius Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western. When that book came out, I shared information and images related to the book, but I also shared a lot of steampunk and western memes. For the Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake party, everything I shared was from the books and my world, the Creedverse. I have so much material now, including realistic drawings of my characters.

Three people won trade paperback copies of Bodacious Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western. Yes, I do prizes! If you

 

Every writer works differently. If you’ve been writing long, and studying your craft, you already know that, but I wanted to preface this post with that fact. The correct way to write is what works for you.

Over time, you’ll refine your methods. You’ll try different techniques, find new tools, and if you do it well, you’ll keep getting better.

It can help to know how other writers work. My own method has been evolving, and I figured I’d outline it here. If this helps you, great!

Check out the party page. Yes, it’s over, but I think you’ll enjoy the posts.

 

book 3

 

Almost immediately, in the AMA thread I set up for the party, someone asked when Book 3 comes out. Some authors find this frustrating, because we put a lot of work into one book, but readers get through them in a day or so and want the next one! I found it gratifying though that someone asked.

I had planned to release the third book, Bodacious Creed and the San Francisco Syndicate in December, but that was wishful thinking. I am learning to write my books faster, but I think this one will come out around next August. A year isn’t too long to wait!

Getting into a new novel can be tough. For me, it’s like looking for a secret door. I may have a good idea of what the story will be about, but I still have to find my way in.

This applies to sequels as well. After I finished Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake and got it to my editor, I wrote a detailed outline of Bodacious Creed and the San Francisco Syndicate, and still, I’ve been having a tough time finding my way back in!

Last night though, I got it. The beginning of the book came to me and now I’m excited to crank out the first draft.

If you have a tough time getting into a story you want to write, I suggest typing up or penning various scenes to see what works. Even if none of those feel right, there’s a good chance your brain will get the message and your subconscious will provide the way forward.

Sale

 

Bodacious Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western is just $0.99c now in digital formats and will be for the foreseeable future. Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake is $0.99 until August 14, 2021, when I’ll raise it to its regular price, so get it soon!

  1. “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.” – Ernest Hemingway 

Cover Reveal for “Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake”

Posted on by Jonathan Fesmire

 

 

Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake is finished!

EDIT: The Kindle edition is available for pre-order, and for just $0.99! But a week after it’s released on August 7, 2021, it will go up to its full price. Get it here:

 

Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake pre-sale on Amazon

 

You read that right! I’ve been working with my editor, K.H. Koehler, on it for the last couple of months, and it’s ready to go! She did a phenomenal job streamlining my prose. And I thought I was good at that!

Today, I’m preparing it for publication and pre-sales, with a release date of August 7, 2021! In just a few weeks, you’ll be able to continue your adventure with James “Bodacious” Creed.

What has he been up to since Bodacious Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western? Where does he live? Is he still fighting for justice? You’ll learn all that soon.

 

cover reveal

 

Months ago, I commissioned Mark Reid Author Packages to create the cover for Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake. He not only came up with a wonderful design, he updated the typography, too. To keep a consistent design between books, I also used the same typography on the first book in the series, Bodacious Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western.

Here it is, the cover of Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake!

 

I’m still preparing the book for presale in print and Kindle formats. Soon, I’ll find a reader and get the audiobook version completed, too. I’ll update this space when I have links.

Meanwhile, feel free to search for Bodacious Creed and the Jade Lake on Amazon, and to purchase Bodacious Creed: a Steampunk Zombie Western if you haven’t read it yet.

I did a ton of research for this novel, but once I had that done, it took about a year to write it. I expect to have the third book out in less time.

“What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet or excite you.” ~ Anne Lamott

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