This collection of essays about Joss Whedon’s creations (through Dollhouse; it’s pre Cabin in the Woods/Avengers) includes contributions from writers whose work I already know (Jane Espenson, Emma Bull, Catherynne Valente…) some I didn’t, and some who aren’t writing professionals. It’s kind of all over the map: there’s some really insightful critical analysis, and there’s some naked pimping of the essayist’s other books, and a few real surprises, like the woman who’s moved to become a Lutheran Minister in part by Whedon’s work. After reading 3 or 4 essays I was generally in the mood to read something else for a bit, but it’s not as same-y as it could be. Also, I sort of expected the book to be structured with the strongest pieces up front, but I liked several of the essays toward the end best. If you’re not already a fan of Buffy, Dr. Horrible et al, I doubt this would have much appeal, but if you are — and perhaps especially if you’re an aspiring writer — this is worth a look.
needs more demons? Needs not more, so much as less narrowcast demons, perhaps.
Needs More Demons Or Not 