Let’s take a quick look to see what’s arrived at the Geek Compound.
The Steampunk Bible: An Illustrated Guide to the World of Imaginary Airships, Corsets and Goggles, Mad Scientists, and Strange Literature
by Jeff VanderMeer with S. J. Chambers
Contributions from Desirina Boskovich, G. D. Falksen, Rick Klaw, Jess Nevins, Kake von Slatt, Bruce Sterling, and Catherynne M. Valente
Design by Galen Smith
Promo copy:
The Steampunk Bible is the first book of its kind: a fully illustrated compendium that traces the roots and history of this subculture, from the work of its godfathers—Jules Verne and H. G. Wells—to the key figures who first coined the word that would spawn a literary genre and the vast community of craftsmen and artists who have translated that spark into a lifestyle with clothing and accessories.
This ultimate manual, filled with scores of illustrations and photographs, will capture a world seen through aviator goggles, including the history, literature, film, art, crafts, television, comics, and fashion created by Steampunks the world over. In these pages you’ll find a do-it-yourself project from Steampunk Workshop founder Jake von Slatt and interviews with Scott Westerfeld, author of Leviathan, and Sean Orlando, creator of the Raygun Gothic Rocketship. Steampunk fashion photographer Libby Bulloff captures different styles for sporting spats, cravats, corsets, and goggles, while Difference Engine co-author Bruce Sterling pens a user’s guide to the subculture.
Simultaneously an investigation of the roots of
Steampunk and a veritable who’s who of its key players, The Steampunk Bible encapsulates the past, present, and possible future of the genre.
My essay “Obscure Steampunk TV Moments” enabled me to be part of this magnificent book. In the short time since I received my copy, this beautiful book has ascended to a place of distinction and honor among my collection.
Luckily for those folks in Austin, S. J. Chambers will be in town on Sunday, May 1st and has arranged a special event with me, contributor Jess Nevins and special guests Liz Gorinsky and Michael Moorcock to commemorate the release of this extraordinary book. The signing/party/steampunk love fest, happens at the United States Art Authority, 7-9 PM.
Check out VanderMeer’s blog for more preview images of the gorgeous interiors.
Book received 4/25/11 Steampunk Bible edition! was originally published on The Geek Curmudgeon