Story in Computer Games, Author Annette Lyon

Story in Computer Games (3:39) Where do stories come alive? In movies? Yes! And before movies, there were books. And before that, on papyrus and parchment, and before that – around prehistoric campfires. But now, we’re in the digital age – stories come alive in computers, and, as it happens, they thrive in the world of computer games. Our first guest – author, artist and video game director Dustin Hansen talks to Rachel about the story aspect of computer games that began in the arcades and has now come to our computers and consoles. Hansen is author of the book Game On! Video Game History from Pong and Pac-Man to Mario, Minecraft, and More. He’s been creating media for the Middle Grade audience for more than 20 years. Dustin Hansen’s passion for crafting meaningful stories has also led him into work as a creative director for some of the biggest video game products on the planet including Madden Football, The Sims, and Hasbro’s most popular franchises. He’s also author of the fiction series, Microsaurs. Author Annette Lyon (15:09) Next – where do good ideas for books come from? Rachel explores the issue with Annette Lyon, a USA Today bestselling author, a 5-time Best of State medalist for Novels and Short Stories in Utah, and a Whitney Award winner. She’s had success as a professional editor for newspapers and magazines, as well as in technical writing, but her first love has always been writing fiction. Lyon is the author of over a dozen books, including Band of Sisters, a chocolate cookbook, a grammar guide and is one of the four co-authors of the Newport Ladies Book Club series. Book Review (25:09) Gene Nelson, Director of the Provo, Utah Library reviewing Egg, a picture book written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes. We’ll look forward to more young reader book reviews in the future. For a full collection of book reviews, check out the Worlds Awaiting Book Reviews link on our website at byuradio.org.