Long-time G-FAN and Scary Monsters contributor Mike Bogue has released an impressive collection of short stories entitled "Atomic Drive-In." The title story is the longest entry, falling into the 'novella' category, and tells the tale of two friends who are transported through time to a parallel earth that has been ravaged by atomic war. Fans of 1950's science fiction will get a charge out of both the direct and subtle references made to films and characters from the genre. "Atomic Drive-In" is more than just an exercise in nostalgia, however. A number of surprisingly deep themes are explored, suggesting that whether your challenges are personal or apocalyptic, it is always possible to make a heroic choice.
Bogue's command of the short story form is evident throughout this collection, and he has a gift for creating compelling characters, some of whom are appealingly unapologetic monster movie fans. G-FAN collectors may recognize "Going Back," a poignant tale of love and loss that appeared in issue 58. Also reprinted from the book "Daikaiju 3: Giant Monsters vs. The World" is "A Calculated Sacrifice," a nightmare vision of angry kaiju gods ruling modern-day Japan. Three other stories are included, one of which, "Mrs. Finney's Special Vine," is particularly evocative in its depiction of a friendship in its final days. This is science fiction with soul, and I give it my highest recommendation.
To pick up a copy of "Atomic Drive-In," go here.
