Rhode Island author to speak at annual science fiction program Monday in Norwich
Norwich — For longtime science fiction-fantasy writer Paul Di Filippo, his recent crossover into the more realistic realm of mystery crime fiction seemed a natural transition.
The two genres always have enjoyed a “mash-up,” with even famed science fiction author Isaac Asimov delving into the mystery realm, Di Filippo will tell his audience Monday at the annual science fiction-fantasy author discussion series at Otis Library.
The Rhode Island-based author will be the guest speaker Monday at the 11th annual Jim Lafayette Memorial Series of Writers of Science Fiction and Fantasy, hosted by Otis Library. The program begins at 6 p.m. Monday and is free and open to the public.
The series, underwritten by the Lafayette family, is held in memory of local science fiction and fantasy fan and writer Jim Lafayette, a writer, illustrator and fan of the genre who died at age 26 after he graduated Connecticut College with honors in English. Norwich native Faye Ringel, Ph.D., retired Professor of Humanities at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, moderates the program and will introduce the author.
Di Filippo’s new novel, “The Big Get Even” features a scheme by a group of “lively eccentrics,” as the Amazon.com description begins, and petty criminals to bilk a bigger evil, a shady real estate developer.
Ringel said Di Filippo spoke at the Lafayette program nine years ago but she chose him this year to highlight that authors interested in science fiction and fantasy can delve into other genres with success. Di Filippo will discuss the similarities and differences in science fiction-fantasy and crime-mystery writing.
“Last time he was here, he showed art that had influenced his writing,” Ringel said. “This time, he’ll show his evolution from writing fantasy and science fiction to writing this kind of caper novel.”
On Monday, Di Filippo said he plans to read pieces of two science fiction crime stories to show the connection and then read a piece of “The Big Get Even.” He also could tease the audience with a segment of the sequel due to be published next year.
There will be time for questions and interaction with the audience following the readings.
Di Filippo, a 35-year veteran writer, said his shift to crime fiction was “not a total transition, just another arrow in the quiver.” Fans of his fantasy writing needn’t worry. He has a collection of 12 science fiction-fantasy stories, “Infinite Fantastika,” set to be released in fall by Infinity Publishing.
“All my life, I’ve loved mystery fiction and crime fiction almost as much as science fiction,” Di Filippo said, “and the book that came out in March seems to be getting a good reception.”
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