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.