I’m thrilled to share that my latest short story is now available in the very first issue of an exciting new same-world anthology series, Night Sky Press! According to the editors, “Every issue features a different unique and original world to inspire our writers, curating collaboration and pushing same-world speculative fiction into an accessible, modern spotlight.” This premiere issue features a wonderful array of poetry and prose from a group of incredibly talented writers, each of whom was inspired by the editors’ delightfully creative fictional world of Orcanus, a crystalline planet in a binary star system.
When I read the prompt for this first-ever issue of Night Sky Press, I was immediately inspired to explore the planet’s unique geography and topography, as well as the nature of its solar cycle. But it wasn’t until my wife—an educator—discussed with me her latest lesson plan that incorporated Ray Bradbury’s classic story, “All Summer In a Day,” that I thought of a way to craft an engaging plot set on Orcanus. Whereas one of the central themes of “All Summer in a Day” is the potential for cruelty amongst young people, however, I instead yearned to tell a story showcasing the hope and gumption required of a futuristic human space colony.
This first issue of Night Sky Press is beautifully produced, with gorgeous artwork and a lovely print quality. Holding it in your hands, it’s evident that an incredible amount of love and passion was put into its creation by so many talented individuals. I’m exceedingly proud to have “In the Valley of Starlight” grace its pages, and I truly hope you enjoy it, along with all of the other works in this fantastic new publication.
Click here to read “In the Valley of Starlight” in Issue #01 of Night Sky Press.
Acknowledgments.
This story is about opening one’s eyes to the inherent wonders all around us, and there are few better ways to reshape one’s vision of the world than via the perspectives of children. With that said, this story is dedicated to my daughters, who constantly remind me that our world remains a place of mystery, discovery, and wonder.
I’d also like to thank my wife, an educator whose passion for using stories to impart the importance of kindness and compassion onto her students remains a constant source of positive creativity.
Finally, I’d like to thank the editors of Night Sky Press for their dedication in creating this same-world project, as well as for their consideration of my story. This first issue is truly something special, and I cannot wait to immerse myself in the various other fictional planets and imaginary worlds they’ll create in future issues.
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