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Once there was a family of three geeky little bears who decided to read this strange new genre called science fiction. The first reader, the traditional and wise Papa Bear, opened his 600-page hardcover showing rivets on the cover, read two chapters, then rumbled approval. “This science fiction is hard!” said he. The second reader, the curious and considerate Mama Bear, opened her 220-page paperback that featured rocket ships in the background behind a swooning couple, then read only a few pages before sighing. “This science fiction is soft!” said she. What did they read? And what is the difference?

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Episode sponsors

1. Enclave Publishing: Echo Nova by Clint Hall
2. Garden of Mysteries: A Dragon Slayer Bible Story by Laurie Christine
3. Sunrise Publishing: Squire of Truth by Jill Williamson

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Clint Hall: backstory

Clint Hall is an author and podcaster who has been writing stories since middle school, where he spent most of his time in English class creating comic books. (Fortunately, his teacher not only allowed it; she bought every issue.) Known for stories of hope, wonder, and adventure, Clint has been published across multiple anthologies and magazines. He has also authored numerous pieces for IBM, The Weather Company, The Masters, Adweek, and Aston Martin Red Bull Racing. You can find him hosting panels at conventions, online at ClintHall.com, or at “The Experience: Conversations with Creatives” podcast, available on all major platforms.

• ClintHall.com
• @ClintHall on Instagram

1. What does the phrase ‘hard science fiction’ mean?

• Associated images: rivets, long explanations, “technobabble,” real places.
• Also tend to be set in future versions of our solar system or universe.
• Generally the heroes, plot, and world at least tip hats to physical laws.

2. How then do we define ‘soft science fiction’?

• Associated images: fantasy with spaceships, planets, some tech jargon.
• Sci-fi elements are easier to access, like Back to the Future time travel.
• Related genres include steampunk, superhero, alternate future realities.

3. When does Echo Nova feel like ‘softer’ sci-fi?

• The story feels more about our hero, Dash Keane, than about time travel.
• Time travel is a means to understanding his goals and personal growth.
• Echo Nova’s YA audience also focuses the story toward younger readers.

Com station

Top question for listeners

• Do you like ‘harder’ sci-fi, ‘softer’ sci-fi, or sci-fi that feels just right?