In this circumspect and intriguing book, James Maguire explores several under-exposed nooks and crannies of our verbal culture. While some might view this as a fault- a lack of focus, he certainly manages to keep things interesting by juggling several ideas.

More than just a play-by-play following the top contenders through the various rounds of the 2005 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. and the resultant rollercoaster ride of emotions and tension and resolution, this book is simultaneously about bright kids, history, sociology, linguistics, and potential futures.

Buck Rogers in the 25th Century is the most underappreciated of all space shows. Unfortunately, the reason why it is so underappreciated is because most people associate the show with Season One, which was basically a series of Magnum P.I. in space. That isn’t to say that Season One is not very good. It’s just that it often times fails to capture the essence of a true space show. The show also fails in Season 1 to capitalize on the strong theme of a lonely, homesick man lost in the future. Too often the show tries to be a 70’s crime show in space instead of a space show that just happened to be produced in the 70’s. This fact lends itself to a high cheese factor, to the show’s misfortune. There are exceptions, however: the science fiction in “Space Vampire” and Buck’s homesickness in “A Dream of Jennifer.” Both episodes are clearly the best of the first season.

A bit of a departure this go-around…..

In honor of Martin Scorsese FINALLY winning Best Director, and for the Academy voters FINALLY picking a Best Picture that really WAS the Best Picture, here are five other must-see Scorsese films, a few of which I know you’ve seen, and a few others well-worth seeking out.

If you have not heard of, or read, Invincible, I will offer you the same advice I was given. Quit reading now. Invincible will suck you in, and consume every last dime you have. If you are stupid enough to still be reading, then let me introduce you to the next icon of the comic and movie industry, as predicted by a survey of one- me.

In the 1980’s, (by human years), a Viltrumite came to earth. He went by the name Nolan Grayson, and his real name, Nolan, would have caused entire alternate universes to quake. So imagine how a mere galaxy in ours would respond. Needless to say, but as often said, he is a living legend.

John Doe had been cruising the Wal-Mart parking lot for the better part of a half hour. Sure it was the day before Christmas Eve and crowds were to be expected, but if he was going to murder his latest target in the method he had planned he desperately needed two gallons of paint thinner, a pogo stick and a bag of Cheetos puffs. Truth be told, the Cheetos weren’t a part of the plan but he had a coupon for them and they sounded really good.

Finally, John spotted a space and eureka! it was a great spot, right near the door. He angled his ‘86 Civic hatchback towards the spot but was cut off at the last moment as a blur whished past him into the space!