Tag: Media Tie-in

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Books Fantasy

Game of Thrones 4-Book Boxed Set

A Dance with Dragons: A Song of Ice and Fire: Book Five in the highly acclaimed Song of Ice and Fire series by George R. R. Martin was released earlier this month.

Recently, HBO began airing a new series based on these novels, called Game of Thrones.

If the new series has intrigued you and made you want to read the books, this boxed set is the perfect way to prepare for the newest novel so you can get all caught up with the critically acclaimed fantasy series.

The boxed set of the first four books contains A Game of Thrones, A Clash of Kings, A Storm of Swords, and A Feast for Crows.

The best price for the Game of Thrones novels might very well be this boxed set, which costs less than $20 (at the time of this post). At this price, that’s less than $5 for each book. You can get used copies for less, but new paperbacks cost significantly more. These are long, thick novels.

A Dance with Dragons is George R. R. Martin’s New Game of Thrones Novel

Released July 12, 2011, A Dance With Dragons is the fifth book in the series, where the Seven Kingdoms once again face threats, enemies, conflicts and betrayals.

A 1,040 page hard cover novel, A Dance with Dragons brings back familiar characters while introducing new.

Description of the Book

Now the #1 New York Times bestselling author delivers the fifth book in his spellbinding landmark series–as both familiar faces and surprising new forces vie for a foothold in a fragmented empire.

In the aftermath of a colossal battle, the future of the Seven Kingdoms hangs in the balance once again–beset by newly emerging threats from every direction. In the east, Daenerys Targaryen, the last scion of House Targaryen, rules with her three dragons as queen of a city built on dust and death. But Daenerys has three times three thousand enemies, and many have set out to find her. Yet, as they gather, one young man embarks upon his own quest for the queen, with an entirely different goal in mind.

To the north lies the mammoth Wall of ice and stone–a structure only as strong as those guarding it. There, Jon Snow, 998th Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch, will face his greatest challenge yet. For he has powerful foes not only within the Watch but also beyond, in the land of the creatures of ice.

And from all corners, bitter conflicts soon reignite, intimate betrayals are perpetrated, and a grand cast of outlaws and priests, soldiers and skinchangers, nobles and slaves, will face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Some will fail, others will grow in the strength of darkness. But in a time of rising restlessness, the tides of destiny and politics will lead inevitably to the greatest dance of all….

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Books Tie-in Merchandise

Falling Skies Graphic Novel Discounted

The new TNT series Falling Skies is an exciting science fiction drama set on Earth after an attack from an alien species that leaves the human population struggling to fight back.

Continue the story with the Falling Skies graphic novel which is a prequel to the television series, telling the tale of Tom Mason and his sons.

More about the Falling Skies graphic novel

Summary of Falling Skies

In the heart of Boston, following the devastating events of an alien invasion, history professor Tom Mason and his sons meet up with the 2nd Mass, a militia group determined to wipe out the aliens. But with the militia’s supplies running low, Tom must locate an old friend to equip him and his team in order to ensure the survival of the human race!

Update: The Falling Skies graphic novel is out of stock at TFAW, so you’ll probably have to pick it up at Amazon for the moment if you want to read it. The price is now the same at both places anyway.

You can buy Falling Skies from Amazon but it costs less at Things from Another World. Love the way you can preview the books at TFAW. It makes it easy to know just what kind of quality and story you’re getting.

More About the Falling Skies Graphic Novel

Here are plenty of product specific details about the Falling Skies comic book from Dark Horse. There’s also a Falling Skies webcomic you will want to read if you’re interested in this book.

Writer: Paul Tobin
Artist: Juan Ferreyra
Letterer: Nate Piekos
Colorist: Andrew Dalhouse
Cover Artist: Steve Morris
Genre: Science-Fiction, Action/Adventure
Publication Date: June 15, 2011
Format: FC, TPB, 104 pages, 6″ x 9″
Age range: 14
ISBN-10: 1-59582-737-4
ISBN-13: 978-1-59582-737-1

Falling Skies is from DreamWorks Television and stars Noah Wyle. Watch at 9 Central on Sundays on TNT.  Don’t miss it!

Categories
Books Television Tie-in Merchandise

Merlin Book Series – List of Currently Available Books

Here’s a list of the books in the Merlin book series. These are the YA books from Bantam and most are also available as ebooks.

(UPDATE: Most of these books are out of print now, but you can occasionally still find used copies. Just check your favorite online used book store.)

  • The Dragon’s Call
  • Valiant
  • The Mark of Nimueh
  • The Poisoned Chalice
  • A Fighting Chance
  • The Sorcerer’s Curse
  • Dangerous Quests
  • The Last Dragonlord
  • The Nightmare Begins
  • The Adventures of Merlin: The Complete Guide
  • The Adventures of Merlin: Villains Guide
  • The Adventures of Merlin: Heroes Guide

If you find yourself wanting a deeper look at the Merlin television series, these books give you the chance to get into the heads of your favorite characters in a way you can’t do through the TV.

Keep reading for more descriptions of the books and images of the book covers. They’re nice enough to want to add to anyone’s Merlin collection.

Merlin Books Series (BBC TV Series)

Merlin: The Dragon’s Call

Merlin Book 1 - The Dragon's Call bookcover

Merlin arrives in bustling Camelot eager to make his way in the world and with a sense that some greater destiny is calling to him. But he soon finds that amidst the excitement there is a darker side to Camelot. Magic is outlawed here, so Merlin must keep his unique magical talents a closely guarded secret…

Merlin: Valiant

Merlin Book 2 Valiant bookcover

A mysterious new knight arrives in Camelot for the sword tournament. His fighting skills are impressive but Merlin suspects that dark magic is involved. With Prince Arthur next in line to fight, time is running out for Merlin to prove that evil is afoot…

Merlin: The Mark of Nimueh

The Mark of Nimueh book cover

A deadly plague is rife in Camelot and Gwen is suspected of witchcraft. Merlin must help Gaius find a cure and save his friend from execution…

Merlin: The Poisoned Chalice

The Poisoned Chalice book cover

Merlin is poisoned by the sorceress Nimueh and Arthur seeks the only antidote that can save him – but the prince is walking into a trap…

Merlin: A Fighting Chance

A Fighting Chance book cover

Merlin wants to help his new friend, Lancelot, become a Knight of Camelot – but it’s not as easy as he hopes. Then the Lady Morgana is struck down by a mystery illness. Gaius is baffled and a new physician arrives to help. He seems to have all the answers, but Merlin suspects that there’s something sinister going on. With a graphic novel element to bring the text to life, this book covers two TV episodes (#5 and #6 from the first season)…

Merlin: The Sorcerer’s Curse

The Sorcerer's Curse book cover

A treasure trove is discovered deep beneath Camelot but when the spirit of an evil sorcerer is unwittingly unleashed, Merlin quickly discovers that all that glitters is not gold. Meanwhile, a deadly assassin has arrived in Camelot. His aim? To kill Arthur. Will Merlin be able to save the prince from the killer’s lethal blade. This book covers two TV episodes (#1 and #2 from the second season)…

Merlin: Dangerous Quests

Dangerous Quests book cover

When Arthur kills a unicorn, Merlin knows that terrible consequences lie in store for Camelot and its people. And things are set to get worse. After a hunting trip in the forest, Arthur is fatally attacked by a savage beast. As the Crown Prince lies dying, Gauis knows that dark magic is at work and Merlin is the only one who can save him – but at what cost? With a graphic novel element that brings the text to life, this book covers two TV episodes (#11 and #13 from the first season)…

Merlin: The Last Dragonlord

The Last Dragonlord book cover

This is a spellbinding, action-packed book covering three exciting episodes of Merlin. The powerful enchantress Morgause arrives in Camelot. Set on destroying the bond between Uther and his son, she revives the seven deadly Knights of Medhir. While Arthur and Merlin ride out to face the Knights, everyone in Camelot is plunged into a deep and impenetrable sleep – everyone but Morgana. Desperate for a cure, Merlin is forced to beg for the Great Dragon’s help, but it comes at a price: the Dragon’s freedom. Why has Morgana escaped the effects of this powerful magic? And once free, will the Great Dragon wreak it’s vengeance on Camelot once and for all?

Merlin: The Nightmare Begins

The Nightmare Begins book cover

When Morgana’s nightmares spill into waking hours she becomes terrified that she has magic. Gaius is determined to keep her in the dark for her own good but Merlin won’t stand by and watch his friend suffer. He knows exactly what she’s going through and he knows she needs the truth. Is Merlin about to reveal his secret at last? Willfully disobeying Gaius, Merlin risks everything to help Morgana, little guessing what the far reaching consequences might be. Lives are put in danger, loyalties are tested, and Morgana is reunited with the strange young druid boy Mordred, who the Dragon predicted would one day kill Arthur…

The Adventures of Merlin: The Complete Guide

Merlin, The Complete Guide book cover

This guide contains all you need to know about the world of Merlin. Explore Merlin’s world and find out all there is to know about the characters and their secrets. Contains facts and great imagery of all the cast, locations, and props. Discover the lore and legend of Merlin. Looks at each character and their various relationships as well as exploring the baddies and the monsters that lurk in Camelot. Never seen before footage as well as maps and spells from the spell book finish this complete guide. Welcome to Camelot! Enter the magical world of Merlin. Uncover secrets about the characters and delve into the murky history of some of Camelot’s mysterious visitors. Meet villains and heroes, deadly beasts and ethereal creatures in this must-have guide for all Merlin fans. Discover: Secrets about each character. Pages from Merlin’s Book of Spells. A must have for any Merlin fan!

…

The Adventures of Merlin: Villains Guide

Villain's Guide book cover

This the official guide contains facts and profiles from the hit TV show. In a land of myth and a time of magic there is a constant battle to maintain the balance of the world. Evil forces are at work to destabilize the kingdom. Meet the villains out to destroy Camelot in this official guide. Filled with tales of dreadful deeds, fascinating facts and fun activities this is the must-have guide for all “Merlin” fans…

The Adventures of Merlin: Heroes Guide

Heroes Guide book cover

This the official guide contains facts and profiles from the hit TV show. Enter the magical world of Merlin! In a land of myth and a time of magic the world is in need of heroes. Meet the brave champions of Camelot in this official guide. Filled with tales of bravery, fascinating facts and fun activities this is the must-have guide for all “Merlin” fans…

These Merlin books are available in print or as ebooks

To read the ebooks all you need is one of the free ebook readers available for download on Google Play or the Apple store then you can read these books right on your mobile device.

Of course, many fans prefer to have the print copies on their shelves. If that’s the case, most of these are available through third-party sellers. I’ve bought SGA books through third-party sellers before and had no problems receiving any of them.

Categories
Books Science Fiction Television Tie-in Merchandise

Currently Available Eureka Books

If you’re a fan of Eureka, you might be interested in giving the Eureka books a try. These books are set in the world/universe of the Eureka television program and promise to deliver additional adventure and fun with the characters we’ve grown to love.

Eureka tie-in novels are a great way to revisit Eureka during the off-season (like now) while we wait for new episodes to come to Syfy.

The two books below are set during the time between season 3.5 and 4, before the time travel incident that led to season 4’s big “equation” change.

I’ve gathered plenty of information about these Eureka books here. Enjoy!

Substitution Method

Welcome to Eureka.
Population: BRILLIANT

It’s a town of geniuses—and now it’s the smartest series going.

Founded by Albert Einstein and Harry Truman after WWII, Eureka is home to the greatest minds in science and technology. But the creations of these eccentric geniuses threaten to destroy the world as often as they save it. Jack Carter is the everyman sheriff who must use his common sense and unique street smarts to keep a lid on this Pandora’s Box of a town. Especially now, when Eureka’s people, cars, and buildings are being swapped with people, cars and buildings from other places.

Eureka: Substitution Method
By: Cris Ramsay
Published by: Ace
Publication date: August 31, 2010
Edition: Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 320
ISBN: 9780441018857

Brain Box Blues

Even the brightest of Eureka’s residents can’t read someone else’s mind. Then Global Dynamics develops the Brain Box: a device capable of capturing and storing human thoughts. When the Box starts messing with people’s minds Sheriff Jack Carter will have to keep his thoughts to himself if he’s going to save the town from going out of their heads.Even the brightest of Eureka’s residents can’t read someone else’s mind. Then Global Dynamics develops the Brain Box: a device capable of capturing and storing human thoughts. When the Box starts messing with people’s minds Sheriff Jack Carter will have to keep his thoughts to himself if he’s going to save the town from going out of their heads.

Eureka: Brain Box Blues
By: Cris Ramsay
Published by: Ace
Publication date: November 30, 2010
Edition: Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 320
ISBN: 9780441019830

Categories
Movies Science Fiction Television

Is The Last Airbender a Trilogy?

Apparently so. The Last Airbender, the live-action movie based on the Avatar: The Last Airbender animated TV series, is supposed to be part of a trilogy.

The first movie is in theaters now, while the next two installments are to be filmed one at a time. According to the article, "Last Airbender Trilogy Not Being Filmed Back-to-back, May Take Over 6 Years to Complete," on slashfilm.com from July last year, M. Night Shyamalan was still working on the script for the second film. This seems to support the idea that The Last Airbender is the first of a trilogy.

Finally, if you see the plot summary taken from the official movie website for The Last Airbender quoted further down this page, you’ll see that "‘The Last Airbender’ is the opening chapter in Aang’s struggle to survive."

So, yes, The Last Airbender is a trilogy.

The Last Airbender Image Some people made the assumption that The Last Airbender would be a trilogy based on the fact that the series was made up of three "books," Water, Earth and Fire.

More recently, critics have knocked the film heavily, giving it bad marks for any number of issues.

TV series viewers have done the same, but I always discount those kinds of reviews, simply because I know I don’t enjoy a movie as much if I go into it with expectations set by a book or television series I’ve loved.

The Last Airbender Movie Poster [Coming Soon] The Last Airbender Movie Poster [July 2]

I have family very interested in seeing this film. As someone who has watched bits and pieces of the television series, but not enough of it to have expectations about the style or content of the movie, I would also like to see this one. The Last Airbender looks quite appealing!

The Last Airbender Plot Summary

Air, Water, Earth, Fire. Four nations tied by destiny when the Fire Nation launches a brutal war against the others. A century has passed with no hope in sight to change the path of this destruction. Caught between combat and courage, Aang discovers he is the lone Avatar with the power to manipulate all four elements. Aang teams with Katara, a Waterbender, and her brother, Sokka, to restore balance to their war-torn world.

Based on the hugely successful Nickelodeon animated TV series, the live-action feature film "The Last Airbender" is the opening cahpter in Aang’s struggle to survive.

The Last Airbender Theatrical Trailer

 

The Last Airbender Cast

Aang – Noah Ringer

Prince Zuko – Dev Patel

Katara – Nicola Peltz

Sokka – Jackson Rathbone

Uncle Iroh – Shaun Toub

Commander Zhao- Aasif Mandvi

Fire Lord Ozai – Cliff Curtis

Categories
Sci-Fi Views Television

What!? TV on DVD

What compelling reasons keep me shelling out good money for something that was available for (mostly) free at one time?

Farscape, Stargate SG-1 and Firefly all have season sets available on DVD Farscape, Stargate SG-1 and Firefly all have season sets available on DVD

Why TV on DVD makes sense

Unless you share the obsession, you might thing it’s crazy to spend anywhere from $35 to $125 for a single season of a television series—especially if that TV series is still showing episodes on easily accessible channels. I even used to be one of those people…until I found Stargate SG-1…Smallville…Star Trek Voyager…Stargate Atlantis…Star Trek Enterprise…The Dead Zone…and too many other series to count. My growing collection of series DVD sets attests to the fact that I have officially stepped over the line and become a television-crazed fanatic. What compelling reasons keep me shelling out good money for something that was available for (mostly) free at one time?

Commercial Free TV
Seriously. No commercials. The ability to watch television commercial free is enough reason all by itself. However, there are others…
Portability
TV on DVD means I get to watch what I want when I want. I’ll never be subject to a television station’s programming whims again.
Unaired episodes
I get to watch television series that might never play in syndication. The powers that be oftentimes kill a good show well before it deserves to be canceled. Look at Firefly. Flash Forward. Jake 2.0. Threshold. The Dresden Files. Invasion. Surface. Jericho. More, more, more…. DVD gives me a chance to watch episodes that often don’t even make it on the air.
Extras & Bonus Materials
DVDs usually come with extras, such as audio commentary on the episodes, interviews with cast and crew, featurettes and more. I actually kind of like these things sometimes and they certainly don’t usually show up on television—unless it’s a Scifi Channel series.
Premium TV Shows
I get to watch television shows that aired on premium channels without having to subscribe.

Although I love the digital age, and watch downloaded television programming quite often, I still prefer to own the DVDs when they’re available. Otherwise, I have to burn my digital files to DVD for posterity because my hard-drive just isn’t big enough to keep them all, nor is my DVR. So, yeah, call me crazy, but TV on DVD is perfect for me.