In addition to the novel Semiosis and the upcoming sequel Interference, two short stories explore life on Pax. “Cinderella Faraway” is set between chapters 1 and 2. Nicoletta and the other children wonder if their new life is really better than it would have been on Earth. Warning: this story is grim. “Spiders” is set … Continue reading Two short stories set on Pax

The members of Spectology: The Science Fiction Book Club Podcast may have thought harder about my book than I did. In the episode Semiosis post-read w/ Nate Spence: Budding Utopia or Mutualist Dystopia? they spend two hours and nine minutes discussing that question. Here’s their description of the episode: “Matt, Nate, & Adrian have a … Continue reading Very deep thoughts about “Semiosis”

Semiosis has been published in Japan by Hayakawa Publishing, Inc., translated by Maasa Mizukoshi. I just got my author copies and gave one to a friend who speaks Japanese. I’m told my name has been transliterated to “Suu Baaku.” It’s a delight to see my words in another language and at the same time it’s … Continue reading Now available in Japan!

I’ll be reading “Who Won the Battle of Arsia Mons” as part of the Writers Aloud series at Prop Theater on Sunday, April 7. The event, from 3 to 5 p.m., will also feature Johanna Drew reading “Ask Me for My Photo (my life in online dating).” Free and open to the public, with refreshments, … Continue reading Writers Aloud: I’ll be reading on Sunday

Here’s the cover for Interference, the sequel to Semiosis. The Verge interviewed me about the book: “In Interference, Burke picks up the story a century after the end of Semiosis as a new expedition from Earth arrives on the planet, which threatens to upset the balance between Stevland, the Glassmakers, and humanity. The novel is … Continue reading A first look at “Interference”

Here are some book club discussion questions for Semiosis, specifically the study guide for the Apocalypse Book Club, which has graciously allowed me to share it. This club, in Oregon, attacks books with extreme ambition. Its meetings feature not just discussion, but costumes, arts and crafts, and meals based on the book its members have … Continue reading Book club study guide

On Saturday, March 23, I’ll be at C2E2, the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo, at the McCormick Place. It’s famous for its huge “Artist’s Alley” where you can meet famous and up-and-coming comic book artists, for its amazing cosplay — and there’s plenty more to do involving games, anime, and family fun. It really is … Continue reading I’ll be at C2E2