Author Description

This issue of "Startling Stories" is a special one to us in many ways. Not only does it feature classic Golden Age Science Fiction such as "Empire" by Clifford D. Simak and "The Devil's Asteroid" by Manly Wade Wellman, but also new fiction by our very talented writers: "The Demon of Blackwater Swamp" by Russ Parkhurst with art by David Burton, "Last Lord of the Three Lands" by K.G. McAbee with art by Gary McCluskey, "A Scroll of Strange Device" by Gerald W. Page and Jerry L. Burge, "What Wizardry May Come" and "Bugs Begone!" both by S. Clayton Rhodes, and the regular "Saucy Blaine" comic by Ron Wilber. It also offers a Special Tribute to a very important man who passed away while we were in the middle of production. I'm speaking, of course, of Frank Frazetta, probably one of the most influential artists of the 20th Century. His loss hit many of us hard, and I want to thank the talented writers and artists who took the time out of their busy schedules to produce something especially for this issue. And in honor of another great artist who passed away soon after, we are proud to present a Golden Age comic reprint by the late and great Al Williamson. All of us here at Wild Cat Books are doing what we do because of their influences that left lasting impressions on us as we were growing up. We hope you enjoy this Special Issue, and my thanks go out to William L. Carney who worked diligently to bring this fine issue into your hands... We'll miss you, Frank and Al, but your work and inspiration will live forever... May you both rest in peace!