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THE ICE DRAGONS SONG started out to be Hans Brinker but took a turn when I considered what life would be like on Europa, with ruddy Jupiter hanging overhead and miles of ice beneath. As facts about Europa appeared on the NASA web site the story changed to accomodate those facts.
The character of Paul emerged as I tried to recall what it felt like to be a young teen-ager, fighting hormonal rages, battling for identity, resenting parents (one or both) and torn between independence and dependency. The story is about Paul's battle with his self, and how he reaches an understanding of his own motivations and needs.
This story represents a stylistic breakthrough for me. I wanted that feeling of wonder to come through, that fascination with what might be, even though you know it is false. I do hope that you like it.