Harvey Pekar, author of American Splendor, passes away

Harvey Pekar wasn't a household name, but he did write an excellent graphic novel about his life called American Splendor. Mostly, it was his tirades about life that made it an underground classic. Pekar's comic writing career began slowly because of his friendship with Robert Crumb. This friendship eventually became the collaboration known as American Splendor. Pekar decided that the comic should be autobiographical and became a hit over time. Harvey gained a reputation as a curmudgeon as his fame grew which was helped by his appearances on the Letterman Show in the 80s. However, for those who knew him, a different picture would be painted.

While Harvey Pekar was twice divorced, he found a lasting love with Joyce Brabner. Together, they adopted a daughter named Danielle. They happily lived in Cleveland even as Harvey became increasingly famous. Paul Giamatti, who played Harvey Pekar in the movie version of American Splendor, described the man as compassionate and empathetic with a huge brain and an even bigger soul. And, he was hilarious. There is no one to replace him. Harvey Pekar was an incredibly unique and special person. I agree that there is no one to replace him.

Dr. Michio Kaku to appear on the Colbert Report

The famed astrophysisist and author Dr. Michio Kaku is slated to appear on the Colbert Report on Monday, July 5th. Dr. Kaku first came to my attention through National Public Radio where he was discussing his book, Physics of the Impossible. His discussion about lightsabers, warp drive, teleportation, and other amazing facets of science fiction quickly won me over, and I became a fan for life. Lately, he has become a science staple appearing on many news networks to discuss a multitude of situations and ideas. Though I am not a big fan of Fox News, I watched while Dr. Kaku discussed space debris. He will always interest me, and I have to admit that Dr. Kaku was the spark which rekindled interest in space and space travel.



His appearance on the Colbert Report with Stephen Colbert is a fun pleasant surprise. I love the Colbert Report, and, while the discussion will be probably be less than scientific, it will prove to entertaining. Don't miss Dr. Kaku if you're a fan, but, if you already love the Colber Report, you'll be right there with me.