Orson Scott Card, Ultimate Iron Man, and controversy
So I get an email yesterday from my comic book store, about the usual months worth of comics coming out. And Gail decides to add in a disclaimer:
A serious note: Orson Scott Card, famous sci-fi writer, is taking on Ultimate Iron Man in this month’s Previews. He has a reputation for some very controversial views on gays and other social issues, however he also has a reputation as being an excellent writer. Metropolis does plan to carry Ultimate Iron Man, but we’re listening carefully - to you, our customers, and to what happens in this book. Until or unless this writer says or does something offensive in the context of this book, we’re remaining neutral on the issue and taking an attitude of “wait and see.” If you have an opinion on Mr. Card’s public statements, we’re interested. In the meantime, we know that writer’s runs on books can be short or long, depending on various factors - public demand, other commitments, personal decisions. Because comic readers tend to be completists, we know at least some of you will want the book simply because it’s the beginning of the run. Others may refuse to buy it simply because of the author’s past history. Let us know how you feel about it.
I let Gail know that while I don’t plan on buying Ultimate Iron Man (I don’t buy most Marvel, and I don’t buy any Ultimate series. Good writing, but my money goes elsewhere these days.) I support her decision to carry the book. And if it don’t sell, that’s fine too.
Surprisingly, I’ve been the only one to comment since she sent out her email about this situation. The people who brought it to the fore are regular customers of her store. Now, the book will be a standard comic rated book, marketed towards kids and teens(as is the whole Ultimate series).
So, how many of you are for stores not carrying any author’s book, because you don’t like his personal views. How many of you will stop going to a store because they carry a mainstream book, written by someone you don’t like?