From the foreword by Kevin J. Anderson: Words. Yes. No. I want. How much? Do this. Please. Thank you. Words are the gears that make civilization function, the tools that move almost every action in our daily lives. Through words we create instructions, blueprints, cooperation, organization. But some people use words as more than just gears and tools. They elevate language to an art, an evocative level beyond mere instructions. They use words as a brush to create and paint sweeping imaginary landscapes that they can make other people see in their own minds. They use words to sculpt characters with history, personalities, scars of tragedy or a sense of humor. Writers see words as wondrous things, ordinary beans that can spawn a magical beanstalk, simple keys that can unlock Pandora s Box. Readers feast on the fantastic concoctions that wordsmiths create from these sophisticated, sorcerous tools. Any bookstore offers shelves of published novels from well-known and well-loved masters of the craft, storytellers who have entertained us for years, thereby creating a special place in our hearts and our imaginations. But how many other word wizards live among us, secretly practicing their magic, developing their skills, hoping to one day become masters themselves? Many try to take up the special mantle, hoping that their magic is good enough to be noticed. Spark: A Creative Anthology is one way for those emerging apprentice storytellers to take one step closer to becoming a master. Spark is a quarterly anthology and accompanying writing contest dedicated to fostering emerging talent with participation from industry professionals. Established writers and editors serve as guest judges for each contest, and the new stars who shine the brightest are featured here. In all likelihood, you don t recognize many of the names featured in the table of contents at least not yet. But judging by the quality of what I ve read, you will know them. You will. Kevin J. Anderson ___________________________ Here's just a sampling of the great content you can expect: Cover art and illustrations by Paul Pederson Amazing new stories from: Brad R. Torgersen Alex Kane Annie Bellet Su J. Sokol Erica L. Satifka George Wells Alexis A. Hunter Natalia Theodoridou Hannah Lackoff Florence Major Anna YeattsMary Hedengren JC Hemphill Kaitlyn M. M. CaulTerri Wallace Chip Houser Samantha Kymmell-Harvey Brianne Kohl Will Mayer Terry SanvilleAlex ShvartsmanStewart C BakerMichael HodgesMelinda Brasher Julia PattTom HowardSadie BruceHannah StreettJoe BaumannPeter Medeiros ... and more!