TEMPE, Ariz. – On Thursday, May 28, 2009, at an event dubbed “Wiki-Wire,” science fiction author PJ Haarsma will be on-hand at ASU’s Decision Theater to help local high school students unveil their wiki based on “The Softwire” book series.

Sponsored by the Department of English at ASU, the gathering will feature a multimedia presentation of the new wiki, an online informational site which students at Basha High School created to expand on their reading of Haarsma’s science fiction series as well as their playing of the free online video game, “The Rings of Orbis,” which Haarsma created as a supplement to the books.
The wiki contains ongoing discussions, links, and information related to literature, science and science fiction, all of which were generated by the students’ reading.

With actor Nathan Fillion, author Haarsma is co-founder of the non-profit foundation, Kids Need to Read (KNTR). The organization’s primary mission is to send new books (not necessarily Haarsma's) to under-funded schools and libraries nationwide. James Blasingame, ASU Associate Professor of English and 2008 Parents’ Association Professor of the Year, is a KNTR board member and organizer of “Wiki-Wire.”

From quantum physics to character development to literary archetypes, any topics that pique a reader’s interest can and will be addressed on the students’ wiki website.

Candlewick Press, publisher of “The Softwire” series, will make an announcement during the event about printing part of the wiki in its next series release.

Due to the intimate size of the Decision Theater, only invited guests and media may view the unveiling.

Event Information:

Wiki-Wire: YA Lit Meets the Future
Thursday, May 28, 6-7:30 p.m.
GIOS Decision Theater (21 E 6th St, Ste 126A) ASU, Tempe campus

english.clas.asu.edu/wiki-wire