Interviews
Before the live bn.com chat, Kevin J. Anderson agreed to answer some of our questions.Q:
What have you read lately that just knocked you out?
A:
Because I write so much science fiction, I tend to read outside the genre to get my inspiration. I'm just finishing James Clavell's Noble House; next up is Larry McMurtry's Zeke and Ned (his Lonesome Dove is my favorite novel of all time). In the genre, I just read Dan Simmons Endymion and reread Dune (my favorite science fiction novel).
Q:
Do you believe in extraterrestrial life? If so, friend or foe?
A:
I can't imagine that in the billions and billions of stars and galaxies there isn't something else alive out there. As to whether they are abducting middle-aged housewives in Pennsylvania, well, that's another question entirely.
Q:
Tell us about your first job and, if you can recall, what you did with the first paycheck.
A:
I worked in an experimental rat farm: I had to feed and water 40,000 white lab rats in cages each weekend in a sterile environment while listening to insipid Muzak that kept the rats calm. And people wonder why I have such a warped imagination....
Q:
Tell us about the most serene, beautiful place you have ever visited.
A:
I have seen many such beautiful places.... I think it would have to be a lake in the Grand Tetons, which I came upon at sunset, the water still, the air chill, the sky colorful, and the silence great.
Q:
What, to you, is the most important time of year?
A:
I love the fall best, colored leaves, frost on the ground in the mornings -- and Halloween, of course!