Have you ever wondered how possible it is that two people have ever shuffled cards and gotten them in the same order, then read this. Also read it if you're interested in codes.

In short, groupthink stifles creativity, and I wholeheartedly agree.

The idea of the vixen librarian hiding behind horn-rimmed glasses is a secret fantasy for some. Having spent a fair amount of my time in libraries and library schools, I've actually run across a few who fit the bill--though, sadly, I never had the chance to live out the fantasy to its fullest. This article addresses the topic.

The appeal of mastering the minutiae of fantasy epics like The Lord of the Rings would seem to be akin to the appeal of mastering sports statistics--it's easier than mastering the minutiae of real life.

This article is almost a year old, but it's still relevant (in my humble opinion). Basically, the author argues that many, many more women read compared to men because women dominate the editorial boards of most publishing houses and, as such, most books are targeted toward women.

From the project manager: "We’re actually much better off creating a single, stable edition. It’s easier for fans, it’s better for continuity for writers and designers, and it’s much easier in terms of creating a long-term product strategy. It would be great if the playtest feedback was such that we felt comfortable dropping any reference to editions or numbers in the final game’s title." Now to come up with that set of rules.

A veritable coterie of the world's foremost intellectuals tackle this question, and their answers make for some damn good reading.

A documentary about the making of this classic album, one which helped me chime in the new millenium.

To live in a house where this seemed like an appropriate thing to set up would be okay by me.

The potential problem here is the very headline. I mean, which players? The ones who like 4th edition, or the ones who abandoned 4th edition for Pathfinder? Or, perhaps, a mix of the two? Regardless, could be interesting!

I never knew it was so easy. Then again, I have yet to actually try it. Cell phones frighten me.

Insightful interview with George R.R. Martin. He and I share many of the same opinions about both LOST and BSG.

Long story short: you use chalkboard paint. But why go with store-bought black or green when you can make your own with a color of your choice? Read on.

Transcription of a keynote speech by Brian Keene on the history of modern horror literature.

Interesting article that critiques the armor that female subjects often wear in fantasy artwork (think: chainmail bikini). Good stuff.

NPR selects its favorite SF/F for 2011. I already had plans to read "A Dance With Dragons", but perusing this list has convinced me to check out Stross' "Rule 34" as well.

TOR.com columnist Leigh Butler reads and reacts to George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" in short installments.

Some of the comments actually get closer to my own take: undergraduate education is about broadening intellectual horizons and honing critical thinking skills, not deciding on a career. That is something you figure out after college, and it usually involves graduate school or a journeyman-type experience.

A nine minute video that serves as an excellent rebuttal when dealing with mystical thinkers who call you close-minded for not accepting the supernatural without evidence.

Short story from the perspective of the "thing" inspired by the John Carpenter film, "The Thing". Good stuff.