We all know what today is in the United States! It's fascinating to look at the character's history. While he was always a villain, his earlier incarnation was the source of laughs, a cartoony bad guy with distinct and omnipresent branding. He became more deadly serious as he developed, and has now become a full-fledged supervillain, who runs his empire like a hardcore mobster.
So, in honour of National Penguin Day,* three jeers for one of Batman's most famous rogues, The Penguin!
In other news, I will be attending Confusion 2025 in Novi, Michigan next weekend, giving presentations on Sub/Urban Folklore (conspiracies, cryptids), contributing to other panels, and saying "hi" to John Scalzi.
My reading in Thamesford, Ontario, rescheduled due to inclement weather will take place on February 11, 2025. The library inspired the one in my recent short story, "Hapax Lizardman," so, however small the gathering may be, I appreciate the opportunity.
*Surprised? You were probably confused because International Penguin Day doesn't fall until April 25, 2025.
And no, I in no way mean to slight the other American event today, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. But it already has a lot of publicity, and the fact that these two days fell together is sheer coincidence.