It's no longer fresh news who won the Hugo's in 2008, but I think I should at least put down my reaction.
Best Novel : The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon (HarperCollins; Fourth Estate)
I'd hoped that Brasyl would win, because I love it, but I'd only read that and Halting State so that isn't a very objective decision. However, many people have said good things about The Yiddish Policemen's Union and it's the sort of winner which gets press and opens eyes and makes people realise what Science Fiction can be. So that's good. To be added to my reading list.
Best Novelette: "The Merchant and the Alchemist's Gate" by Ted Chiang (Subterranean Press; F&SF Sept. 2007)
I thought the Chiang story was okay, but not spectacular. Everyone else seems to like it more than me. I don't think it's close to his best stories. Again, I didn't read any of the other nominees.
Best Related Book: Brave New Words: The Oxford Dictionary of Science Fiction by Jeff Prucher (Oxford University Press)
Yes, like that book, still one I dip into now again. Although it's the only one I've read.
Best Dramatic Presentation, Short Form: Doctor Who "Blink" Written by Steven Moffat Directed by Hettie Macdonald (BBC)
Hurrah! Best Nu Who so far, more of the same please (but different).
Everything else I don't really have an opinion on:
Best Novella: "All Seated on the Ground" by Connie Willis (Asimov's Dec. 2007; Subterranean Press)
Best Short Story: "Tideline" by Elizabeth Bear (Asimov's June 2007)
...didn't get around to reading any of them. Again.
Best Fan Writer: John Scalzi
Blogging tops monthly static web pages for the first time (I think?).
So, you know, it's the Hugos. I can't help feeling that they should be more spectacular and exciting, somehow. Perhaps they are if you're there?Â
Leave a comment