Something I never thought I’d do: watch the Oscars. But tonight, as I’m watching Everything, Everywhere All At Once sweep the Oscars and take home a total of seven awards, I’m reminded of a certain book that did the same thing in the literary industry a few years ago.
I’m talking about Black Cranes, of course. This book took home a Bram Stoker Award, a Shirley Jackson Award, and an Aurealis Award nomination for Grace Chan’s story “The Mark.” It was also shortlisted for Australia’s Norma K. Hemming Award, which recognizes excellence in the exploration of themes of race, gender, sexuality, class, or disability in a published speculative fiction work. The Eugie Foster Award was also awarded for Elaine Cuyegkeng’s story “The Genetic Alchemist’s Daughter.” “Black Cranes” was an Aurealis Award Finalist, Australian Shadows Award Finalist, British Fantasy Award Finalist, and was recommended for the Locus Award. “Skin Dowdy,” one of my two stories in this book, won the Missouri Writer Guild President’s Contest.
It was an awards sweep, just like Everything, Everywhere All At Once. This movie has been my favorite since before I watched it. The idea was fresh. The lead wasn’t an unrealistic standard “Hollywood” body—she is an older, burdened Asian woman who has been told she is past her prime, but refuses to believe it.
This is proof that representation can be profitable.
My highlight from the last seven days: watching watching Everything, Everywhere All At Once sweep the Oscars.
Coming this week…
I have the usual talk shows scheduled for Wednesday and Saturday at 2 pm CST. On Wednesday I’ll be chatting with Scott Noel, publisher of DreamForge Magazine, about their first five years. On Saturday I’ll be speaking with Daniel M. Kimmel about his life as a professional movie critic. Find both shows on YouTube here.
Other magnificent happenings…
check event listings for your time zone
⭐Tuesday, March 14th: HWA Town Hall Meeting Join the Officers and Trustees of the Horror Writers Association for news on the latest developments behind the scenes, and have your questions as a member answered by those who represent your professional interests.
⭐Wednesday, March 15th: EYW Mid-week Show with Scott Noel, publisher of DreamForge Magazine.
⭐Friday, March 17th: Unquiet Author Readings Part 2 with Kiyomi Appleton Gaines, Lee Murray, Grace Chan, and Celine Murray.
⭐Saturday, March 18th: EYW Weekend Show with Daniel M. Kimmel, professional movie critic.