Marooned

I’m excited to officially announce my next book project: Dr. Ugofandian’s Unbelievable Adventures! (Volume 1)! I had mentioned this previously a week or so ago, but now we’ve got a working title and I can give you all the details.

The main purpose of the book is to present two key stories. First, the second part of Lian’s story after she crashed on Mars, which was first told in part 1 in “Payload” by the wonderful Steve Ogden, published in Out of Orbit. Obviously, Steve will be doing the next part of that story. We’re guessing it’s something like 6-8 pages. However this will be combined with “Payload” and published together as one narrative, so figure a 12-14 page story. A panel from “Payload” below:

Next is my own Marooned side story called “Robot School.” This will be the story of how Asimov, Hogan and Bob went to school to learn how to deal with humans, in order to decide who would be chosen to go to Mars. I just published the sketch of Professor Capek, who will be their instructor. I don’t have much to show you at this very early stage, but of course we’ll be seeing more of THIS guy:

Next, I’m excited to announce a sci-fi crossover! The uber-talented James Anderson will be doing an Ellie/Marooned crossover story! To whet your appetite, here’s a fun little sketch Jim sent me a bit ago from his sketchbook:

Next, some time ago I talked about a Marooned side project with the amazing Denver Brubaker titled “Princess of Mars.” Denver got crazy busy and we had to abandon that. However, he’s re-thought the design and story a bit, and he’s on board for the book! So expect a Princess of Mars story in this super cool style like the sketch below:

Last but not least, my daughter Amanda will be doing an illustration of Dr. Ugofandian and Floopy – sure to be a hit! I may possibly be able to add a couple more collaborators yet, we’ll see. In any event, expect something like a 30-40 page book. It will be printed via CreateSpace.com.

The idea of the book is to have a series of sci-fi/Marooned stories, kind of like the old Tales of Suspense comics. Dr. Ugofandian will be your narrator/presenter. As for time period, well – we’re tentatively saying “Spring-ish” – so think at the very earliest May, but probably later. This is a side project for all of us, so we’ll get it done as we can. But I would hope you’d see the book by summertime at the latest. We hope to blow your mind with great fun and great art!

Hope your looking forward to reading this as much as I am looking forward to working with these awesome artists. I’ll keep you posted from time to time.