upstreet author is editor of Teenagers from the Future

Timothy Callahan, whose short story, “Polyphemos Erat Monstrum,” appeared in upstreet number two, is the editor of the newly released Teenagers from the Future: Essays on the Legion of Superheroes (Sequart, 2008). He will be available to sign his books from 6 to 8pm on September 18 at Chapters Bookstore, 78 North Street, Pittsfield, MA, as part of the city’s “Third Thursday” celebration. The book is also available at Amazon.com.

Teenagers from the Future, which includes a foreword by Matt Fraction and an afterword by Barry Lyga, is described by the publisher as follows: “For 50 years, the Legion of Superheroes has occupied its own, vital corner of the DC Universe—and comics fandom. The Legion’s expansive cast, bizarre characters, futuristic setting, extended storylines, and elaborate continuity all set it apart from other superhero comics. This essay collection, from fans and scholars alike, is as diverse as Legion history. Essays examine significant runs (by Jim Shooter, Paul Levitz, & Keith Giffen); the Legion’s science, architecture, and fashion; the role of women, homosexuality, and race; the early Legion’s classical adaptations, teenage cruelty, relation to the early Justice League, and resurrection of Lightning Lad; whether the Legion should be allowed to age; the Amethyst saga; the themes of the reboot Legion; and the so-called Threeboot’s relationship to adult adolescence and generational theory.”

Tim Callahan teaches English at Drury High School in North Adams, MA, where he has been voted Teacher of the Year twice. He is the author of Grant Morrison: The Early Years (Sequart, 2007), which explores the unifying themes of Morrison’s early work, providing a close analysis of stylistic and structural techniques. The new, revised edition of this book is available from the publisher. Tim also writes for Back Issue magazine and Comic Book Resources. He lives in Pittsfield with his wife, Judy, and their two children. You may visit him at his blog, geniusboyfiremelon.