A new book club focusing on issues of religion in science fiction is being launched next year. The discussions will be led by Rev. Randy Smith who, as well as being a Methodist Pastor, is a well-known local science fiction fan. Indeed, he was the director of the Hugo Award ceremony at the 2002 Worldcon in San Jose. The meetings will take place at 7:00pm at the First United Methodist Church, 1183 “B” Street, Hayward. The current schedule is as follows:

• January 25, 2009: A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller, Jr.
• February 22, 2009: A Case of Conscience by James Blish
• March 22, 2009: The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell
• April 26, 2009: Eifelheim by Michael Flynn

Update: Randy says that anyone wanting more information can phone him at the church on (510) 581-2266 or e-mail him.