A Shepherd’s Tale

Shepherd Book is one of the most interesting characters in the Firefly/Serenity universe.

Drawing by: alida saxon

Despite constant rumors to the contrary, we are as likely to see a faster-than-light drive in our lifetime come from basic research proposed by Republicans as we are to see a Serenity sequel. Joss Whedon said that the only reason rumors persist is that the fans and the cast really want to see it happen. Count me in.

On the other hand, I may have to expand my comic purchase parameters. So far, I have avoided any of the numerous Whedenesque comics other than Buffy the Vampaire Slayer Season 8—say Angel: After the Fall or Serenity: Better Days. That may have to change.

An MTV blog reported that Whedon has agreed to answer the most asked questions from the Firefly/Serenity universe: “So what is it about Book? How does a preacherman get to know so much about guns and have such a high government clearance?” My guess is that he was an Operative—an invisible government agent with unlimited authority to complete whatever mission is assigned. Even though it’s possible he was a bounty hunter, I’m sticking to my theory at least until next year when a three-issue series called A Shepherd’s Tale will be released to supply Book’s backstory.

Superhero Bodyguard

What’s not to love about a cute little girl with big, shiny blades. Just because she’s a little…um…crazy… Photo source: SerenityMovie.com

River: Don’t be afraid. That’s what it says. Don’t be afraid… But you are afraid. You’re afraid we’re going to run out of air. That we’ll die gasping. But we won’t. That’s not going to happen… We’ll freeze to death first.

—Joss Weadon [probably]
Out of Gas.

So which sci-fi toughy would you want to be your bodyguard? This poll gives you an opportunity to vote.

The only problem is, they list the wrong Summer Glau character. You can vote for Cameron, the terminator from The Sarah Connor Chronicles. I would prefer River Tam from Firefly and Serenity. After all, River defeated a whole army of Reavers in what I think is the most beautiful fight scene ever filmed. And Summer is from San Antonio.

So, post a comment to let me know who you voted for and if you would rather someone else had been on the list. I put my vote in a comment, too.