Star Trek Deep Space Nine Companion (Paperback)

Each and every episode is covered in depth with a plot summary and detailed history "behind the scenes" of the episode's creation, writing, and filming. One of the reasons I enjoyed DS9 so much is the involved storyline of the series--the Dominion War--and having each of the episodes laid out in chronological order, with extensive detail on the structure of the storyline and subplots, helped me appreciate even more what Berman and Piller and company set out to do. It's filled with entertaining stories and nuggets of background information--how did they do they, where did they get the idea for that, what worked (and didn't)...it's ideal for the Star Trek fan as well as anyone interested in television writing and production.

I don't entirely agree with some of the previous review comments: understand that a book like this takes time to write and create, not to mention publish, have sales reps advance into bookstores, and print and ship. I work in publishing, and with very few exceptions, publishing books takes a *long* lead time. There's no way this could have been ready (or as complete) if it were issued last year. I'd also say, again as someone working inside publishing, that adding color photographs and a hardback binding, while nice, would dramatically increase the price of the book, probably to forty dollars or above.

The very best compliment I can give a book like is that it makes me want to go back to the original source again. If you're a Trek fan, I dare you to pick this up and not get totally involved in it, and *then* want to dig out your tapes and rewatch all your favorite episodes...and even a few that this book will give you a brand new appreciation for.

My favorite part is the behind-the-scenes information revealed by the cast and crew. You learn the intentions and thoughts of the actors and many of the people working on the show. This enhances the enjoyment of the show as you understand what they liked, what they thought they could have improved and what points they were trying to make with certain things.

Also of great interest is the additional information spread throughout, analyzing particular aspects from the show or the season as a whole. Even if you don't consider yourself a "trekkie" and maybe more of a casual viewer, you'll definitely find something to interest you in this guide to the show.