I’ve always loved bonus features. It is the main reason I continue to buy movies and television seasons in a streaming world. Documentary style looks at the making of process, audio and video commentaries, even gag reels fascinate me. They add an extra layer to the story being told, the influences, and the struggle to make it happen.

Why not do the same here?

The Process

I think looking deeper into the process stimulates something in my own writing. In the choices I make and why. It can also be inspiring. I remember reading Stephen King’s journal entries in the back of Song of Susannahand wishing that happened more often. Mark Waid’s commentary in the back of his Fantastic Four hardcover collections for Marvel were a treat to read. You can hear his glee at cracking his story in Hereafter or his agony at figuring out the turn in Unthinkable. Great stuff and an incredible insight into the every day struggles of storytelling that most don’t put much thought into (if at all).

The caveat. (There has to be one, right?)

I can’t reveal everything. Post book launch analysis is one thing but answering questions or delving into subjects that might allude or blatantly reveal secrets in future installments of any or all projects would seem just cruel, both for me and for you. It’s a tightrope but it’s one I’m willing to walk. The benefit and the fun of it is just too great to toss aside.

I hope you agree.