Dan Simmons discusses his new book: "Black Hills"

[MrEddiethekiller]

Drood is the best book i have ever read!!!!

[OopeeShaba]

i have really enjoyed Dan Simmon's books. i enjoyed Drood and the hyperion books. the terror was good too. i wonder if he would ever write a book about H.P. Lovecraft.

[NoVAPunkLover]

Drood was the best book i ever read.

[Sodeggy]

If I can be a quarter as good as Mr. Simmons, I will be well.

[KIBI669]

His work is wonderful.

[MarkThompson01]

I just finished "Black Hills," and while there were certain parts that could be considered entertaining or interesting, I was sorely disappointed. It was the first book I've bought in 20 or so years that left me feeling this way. The research that went into it is impressive, but the voice of Custer, combined with the constant jumping back & forth from the late 1800s to the early 1900s was all very annoying. Furthermore, the droning over minute details was irritating at best.

[SAAMIAM99]

@MarkThompson01

I can't disagree with much of what you've said. (I'm trying to be nice to the author). The last 2 or 3 D.S. novels I've read place much more emphasis on style. This is in great contrast to Carrion Comfort and the Hyperion novels, which have very strong plot lines.

[janeysalinger]

Hey there-- in response jinebro's comment, he's actually using two different words for "white people" throughout the video and novel-- there's "wasichu" (which he does pronounce "wa-seechoo") and also "wasicun" (pronounced wah-sick-oon), which were both used in the Sioux language to describe the "fat takers". So what you're hearing is him saying two different words. I found this element of the book interesting, too-- it kept me on my toes trying to remember all the variations. :)

[jinebro]

He's saying it wrong, its "Wa-seechoo." I and others know this particular word for "White people" was used in the book Black Elk Speaks (interpreted by John G. Neihardt) among other books interviewing Lakota holy men which was spelt (in my recollection) "Wasichu" and not "Wasicu." Just wanted to make a note for people who are reading this book which is not bad in my opinion. Natives in books are usually depicted as dumb savages or remnant images in western civilization. This book is worth it.

[tulipwindmill]

I loved this book.Would like to know more of the background to it.I know its fiction,but is it based on a true story?

[jinebro]

@tulipwindmill Based on true events like the Battle at Little Big Horn.

[Vectornyi]

so much time until it would be translated in russian, thats fuckin killing me:((((

[jossbsure]

Mr. Simmons: Thank you so much for Black Hills, that was a wonderful story, written (built) in a magical way... as most everything you published. I got to discover you through SF and really enjoy the sheer immensity of your imagination; in fact I crave another venture of yours in that realm. When I read that after two "historical" novels (Terror & Drood), there was another one coming and no SF, I was a bit deceived. A feeling that disappeared after the reading. Writers should do as they wish

[Housekitten76]

Well done! I can't wait to crack open this freshly-bought book!

[tekeygirl]

Mr. Simmons: I am reading your awesome book Black Hills about Paha Sapa now. Your story is so unique and reflective. Thanks so much for sharing your plot summary and exciting intro. Wisteria Leigh, Bookworms Dinner. :)

[livredesombres]

Can't wait to read this one. Dan is one of my favorite authors.

[endymionSTATION]

A look inside the workstation where awesome stories come to life.

[09rgs]

Dear Ms. Simmons:

I enjoyed your report on Dan's new book, Black Hills. Can't wait to read it.

I must say that Dan's office sure is neat. I wish my office was that neat. 

Also, I noticed that the blinds were closed behind Dan. Too bad we couldn't see the Front Range behind him. Maybe the light would have been bad.

See you on the Forum!