First novel for well-published science fiction writer is a journey of discovery

First novel for well-published science fiction writer is a journey of discovery

BY JESSICA STARK
Rice News staff

Though her first novel, “Hurricane Moon,” debuts this summer, it is not the first time Fondren Library Circulation Assistant Alexis Glynn Latner ’80 has been published. In fact, in 2005 she was recognized as the seventh most-published female fiction writer in the 75-year history of Analog Science Fiction and Fact Magazine.

In all her writings, she aims to provide people with food for thought.

“My highest aspiration is that one of my stories inspires someone to think about the universe differently,” Latner said. “That kind of thinking can bring hope; hope that can help someone get through a bad night.”

“Hurricane Moon” is set in the late 21st century, a time when Earth has become almost unlivable due to political and ecological problems. The Aeon Foundation launches a starship with a crew and passengers to find a new home and a clean slate.

The journey takes more than a thousand years while the characters remain in cold, suspended animation. Upon awakening, Catharin Gault, the heroine and starship’s physician, discovers that the lengthy stasis damaged their gene structure. It is up to Gault to find a way to repair the human genome before their new colony is perishes.

Latner admits that this novel started out as a short story and grew in the telling. She describes the ten-year writing process as an adventure and a journey of discovery.

“This is my book,” Latner said with pride and awe. “When I saw the cover it all became real. This is my book. I have published my first novel.”

Latner acknowledges many of her fellow Rice alums for their support and knowledge.

“This book could not have been created without the expert and lively advice of space physicists, biomedical researchers, engineers, social scientists and astronaut candidates,” Latner said in the book’s dedication. ” My most profound thanks go to Paula Burch, Kristin Farry, Marc Hairston, Valerie Olson, Sedge Simons and Eileen Stansbery, all of whom are Ph.D. graduates of Rice.”

Hurricane Moon receives a positive review from the Washington Post. Read it here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/10/11/AR2007101101939.html