Octavia Butler 1947-2006

Science-fiction writer Octavia Butler died Friday. She was only 58 years old. Like everyone else, I'm floored by the news. She was an amazing and gifted writer who managed to balance complex themes with engaging characters who were forced to navigate through sometimes dark and troubling circumstances. But Butler's work was always grounded in humanity and hope despite her sometimes pessimistic outlook.

Tragic news indeed. We've lost one of the greats.

For more info, check out the following links:

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2002831388_butlerobit27m.html

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/books/260959_butlerobit26ww.html

http://darkush.blogspot.com/2006/02/octavia-butler-died-saturday.html

http://www.sfwa.org/news/2006/obutler.htm

http://lyndaerucker.blogspot.com/