A galaxy not really that far away.

What an amazing time to be a Star Wars fan!  Not only are we getting new movies and a new animated show (Rebels), but the fan community has never seemed more vibrant or interactive. There are countless blogs, websites, and podcasts to express one's fandom. But even more amazing is the give-and-take between the fans and the creators of Star Wars. As many of the writers, actors, and actual Lucasfilm employees grew up on George Lucas' epic series, the line between fan and and creator is being blurred to unprecedented levels. And with the proliferation of social media platforms, one can legitimately interact with virtually any segment or creative force behind the making of Star Wars product. 

Just recently, I was able to not only take part in a wonderful discussion on the podcast "Coffee with Kenobi," but have had the pleasure of being an active participant in the show through listener emails since the beginning of the show and will now be taking on bigger role in the "Coffee with Kenobi" family. One of the show's hosts, Dan Zehr, is a teacher like I am and he and I have been able to collaborate on curriculum and have struck up a friendship. All because of a shared love of Star Wars and the interactivity of a podcast called "Full of Sith"--another wonderful show that balances listener participation with great Star Wars access. These fine folks--especially the writer Bryan Young--took an active interest in the way I teach Star Wars in my classroom and by playing my voicemail, helped me to connect with Dan and Corey at "Coffee with Kenobi," the actor Sam Witwer, and several others. 

And that's another thing--it's a self-perpetuating phenomenon. Because of those interactions, I've been able to swap birthday greetings with John Jackson Miller (author of Star Wars: Kenobi), discuss Stormtroopers with Pablo Hidalgo, and have Ian Doescher (author of "William Shakespeare's Star Wars" speak to my classes--just to name a few of the wonderful opportunities afforded me by the nature of current Star Wars fandom. 

Next up, I'm very much looking forward to being a guest on "Star Wars Kidscast" with Chris Hamilton to discuss topics related to using Star Wars in the classroom. It'll be about a galaxy far, far away, but it's never felt closer.