Science fiction, ancient aliens subject for writers meeting

Posted

Americans have long been intrigued by the possibility of visitors from another world — past and present. Award-winning science-fiction and fantasy author Arthur Doweyko examines the evidence behind these beliefs in his presentation, "Ancient Archeology, Aliens, and Good Science Fiction," at the FWA Ponte Vedra Writers meeting, 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, at the Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library, 101 Library Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach.

Doweyko will provide examples of visits by ancient aliens and the impact he says they’ve had on our culture and how they provided ample material for science-fiction writers. He’ll then move on to explain how writers can use these subjects for compelling plots in their stories.

Doweyko wears many hats. As a scientist, he invented novel drug design software and shares the 2008 Thomas Alva Edison Patent Award for the discovery of Sprycel, an anti-cancer drug. Novels include “Algorithm” (2010 Royal Palm Literary Award (RPLA)) and “As Wings Unfurl” (Best Pre-Pub Sci-Fi 2014 RPLA); “Anthologies: My Shorts” (13 short stories, published 2017, Bronze 2019 RPLA) and “Captain Arnold” (Second Runner-up 2021 Book of the Year, RPLA).

He has published more than two dozen short stories in various venues, most of which have garnered awards. In addition, he received the 2021 L. Ron Hubbard Illustrators of the Future Award.

The Ponte Vedra Writers group is part of the Florida Writers Association, a statewide, nonprofit organization dedicated to the support of both aspiring and published writers in any genre.

The Oct. 22 meeting is free and open to members and nonmembers alike. For information on FWA go to floridawriters.org.