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Star Trek FAQ (Unofficial and Unauthorized): Everything Left to Know About the First Voyages of the Starship Enterprise
FAQ Star Trek FAQ tells the complete story of Star Trek, from the before the beginning (the books, films, and TV shows that inspired producer Gene Roddenberry to create Star Trek ) until after the end (when the show emerged as a cultural phenomenon in syndication), and including dramatic behind-the-scenes stories (e.g., Leonard Nimoy's struggle with alcoholism and actress Grace Lee Whitney's controversial firing) often omitted from "authorized" histories of the program. Along with in-depth looks at the pre- and post- Trek careers of the show's iconic leads, Star Trek FAQ includes profiles of guest stars and "redshirt" extras alike, as well as the many writers, technicians, and artisans whose efforts enabled Star Trek to take flight. The book also explores the show's unprecedented resurgence in the 1970s with chapters devoted to early Star Trek fiction, merchandising, and the short-lived animated series. Combining a wealth of fascinating information about every facet of the show's production with original analysis of Star Trek 's enduring appeal and cultural influence, Star Trek FAQ goes where no Star Trek book has gone before.
413 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2012
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June 18, 2012
Book Info: Genre: Nonfiction/History of TV tie-in Reading Level: Adult
Disclosure: I received a free ebook eGalley from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Star Trek FAQ tells the complete story of Star Trek, from before the beginning (the books, films, and TV shows that inspired producer Gene Roddenberry to create Star Trek) until after the end (when the show emerged as a cultural phenomenon in syndication), and including dramatic behind-the-scenes stories (e.g., Leonard Nimoy's struggle with alcoholism and actress Grace Lee Whitney's controversial firing) often omitted from "authorized" histories of the program. Along with in-depth looks at the pre- and post-Trek careers of the show's iconic leads, Star Trek FAQ includes profiles of guest stars and "redshirt" extras alike, as well as the many writers, technicians, and artisans whose efforts enabled Star Trek to take flight. The book also explores the show's unprecedented resurgence in the 1970s with chapters devoted to early Star Trek fiction, merchandising, and the short-lived animated series. Combining a wealth of fascinating information about every facet of the show's production with original analysis of Star Trek's enduring appeal and cultural influence, Star Trek FAQ goes where no Star Trek book has gone before
My Thoughts: I came to Star Trek late in life. I had seen Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home in the theater, but still didn’t get into it until I was 19 and living with my first husband. Then I became addicted – from that point, I often made time to watch all the movies and started watching both the original Star Trek in syndication, as well as Star Trek: The Next Generation. When Deep Space Nine started up, I fell in love with it as well. I am what is called a Trekker; while not as obsessive about it as many, I love the show and the worlds that Gene Roddenberry created, and have been very excited to read this book.
My anticipation was rewarded; this is a fabulous and very interesting book. The author writes well, and a sly, subtle sense of humor permeates the text. Mr. Clark has managed to pull together an astounding amount of information about the show and the people connected to it.
Overall this seems to be a very well-researched and accurate book. However, I noticed one huge error: several times, in referring to the episode “I, Mudd,” the author refers to Mudd as being the leader of a planet completely populated by curvaceous female androids, and this is not accurate. This is one of my favorite episodes, which I have watched repeatedly, so I know for a fact that there are male androids, as well as the less-than-attractive android made to look like Mrs. Alice Mudd (which he had created just for the pleasure of being able to shut her up). But considering that Mr. Clark has filled 500 pages with details, information, and behind-the-scenes looks at Star Trek as well as the animated series and even some about the movies, that is a small piece indeed.
Clark claims he wrote this book for the Trekkers like me, those who aren’t frothing, die-hard obsessives, but instead enjoy the series and its sequels and enjoy learning about some of the little details and bits and pieces of information out of sheer enjoyment rather than mania. I think anyone who has found enjoyment in the Star Trek universe will love this book, so definitely check it out.
Disclosure: I received a free ebook eGalley from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Star Trek FAQ tells the complete story of Star Trek, from before the beginning (the books, films, and TV shows that inspired producer Gene Roddenberry to create Star Trek) until after the end (when the show emerged as a cultural phenomenon in syndication), and including dramatic behind-the-scenes stories (e.g., Leonard Nimoy's struggle with alcoholism and actress Grace Lee Whitney's controversial firing) often omitted from "authorized" histories of the program. Along with in-depth looks at the pre- and post-Trek careers of the show's iconic leads, Star Trek FAQ includes profiles of guest stars and "redshirt" extras alike, as well as the many writers, technicians, and artisans whose efforts enabled Star Trek to take flight. The book also explores the show's unprecedented resurgence in the 1970s with chapters devoted to early Star Trek fiction, merchandising, and the short-lived animated series. Combining a wealth of fascinating information about every facet of the show's production with original analysis of Star Trek's enduring appeal and cultural influence, Star Trek FAQ goes where no Star Trek book has gone before
My Thoughts: I came to Star Trek late in life. I had seen Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home in the theater, but still didn’t get into it until I was 19 and living with my first husband. Then I became addicted – from that point, I often made time to watch all the movies and started watching both the original Star Trek in syndication, as well as Star Trek: The Next Generation. When Deep Space Nine started up, I fell in love with it as well. I am what is called a Trekker; while not as obsessive about it as many, I love the show and the worlds that Gene Roddenberry created, and have been very excited to read this book.
My anticipation was rewarded; this is a fabulous and very interesting book. The author writes well, and a sly, subtle sense of humor permeates the text. Mr. Clark has managed to pull together an astounding amount of information about the show and the people connected to it.
Overall this seems to be a very well-researched and accurate book. However, I noticed one huge error: several times, in referring to the episode “I, Mudd,” the author refers to Mudd as being the leader of a planet completely populated by curvaceous female androids, and this is not accurate. This is one of my favorite episodes, which I have watched repeatedly, so I know for a fact that there are male androids, as well as the less-than-attractive android made to look like Mrs. Alice Mudd (which he had created just for the pleasure of being able to shut her up). But considering that Mr. Clark has filled 500 pages with details, information, and behind-the-scenes looks at Star Trek as well as the animated series and even some about the movies, that is a small piece indeed.
Clark claims he wrote this book for the Trekkers like me, those who aren’t frothing, die-hard obsessives, but instead enjoy the series and its sequels and enjoy learning about some of the little details and bits and pieces of information out of sheer enjoyment rather than mania. I think anyone who has found enjoyment in the Star Trek universe will love this book, so definitely check it out.
June 21, 2012
I’ve been a fan of a few things in my life, Star Trek, Star Wars, The Doors, and I think I’m educated in the fan(aticism) of my choice. The one common factor I’m finding in reading books in the FAQ series is that I’m discovering new things on subjects I thought I knew well and “The Star Trek FAQ” is no exception.
The “Star Trek FAQ” takes you from Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry’s life through every aspect of the original 79 episode Star Trek series that ran from 1966-1969. I was especially intrigued by the early years of Roddenberry’s career, how he went from Los Angeles cop to TV producer, and of the pre-history of Star Trek. Not only reading the biographies (and the post Star Trek lives) of the actors, but also the histories of the shows producers and writers and the input they had under their names and pseudonyms makes you feel you can be a more educated Star Trek viewer.
Author Mark Clark will take you through the trials and tribulations (not tribblations) of Roddenberry’s getting Star Trek made from casting to pilots, to the struggles of getting good scripts to the screen, the chemistry of the show’s stars and some of their disagreements, the aliens the crew of the enterprise met, the problems and issues the show tackled, as well as the highpoints and low points of the series. The “Star Trek FAQ” also goes into post series life of the animated series, the conventions, the novels and novelizations, Roddenberry’s post Trek TV series’ and the attempts to revive a Star Trek series and leading right to the movies, inspired as much by Star Trek fandom and being Paramount’s antidote to the success of “Star Wars.”
There are a couple of minor caveats of the “Star Trek FAQ.” One is the repetition of certain Star Trek episodes as being models of the best episodes of Star Trek, writing, acting, or production such as “The Menagerie,” “Where No Man Has Gone Before,” “The City on the Edge of Forever,” “Arena,“ “Devil in the Dark,“ and their repeated synopsis’. And the reverse of that is the interjection of the author’s vociferous opinion on the worst episodes that descends into opinion such as “Let That Be Your Last Battlefield” which cleverly makes its point at the end of the episode.
Even if you’re a Star Trek fan you’ll discover new things about the series, and if you’re not a fan of the series by the end of the book you just might find yourself a Star Trek fan, and maybe a fan of the FAQ series.
The “Star Trek FAQ” takes you from Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry’s life through every aspect of the original 79 episode Star Trek series that ran from 1966-1969. I was especially intrigued by the early years of Roddenberry’s career, how he went from Los Angeles cop to TV producer, and of the pre-history of Star Trek. Not only reading the biographies (and the post Star Trek lives) of the actors, but also the histories of the shows producers and writers and the input they had under their names and pseudonyms makes you feel you can be a more educated Star Trek viewer.
Author Mark Clark will take you through the trials and tribulations (not tribblations) of Roddenberry’s getting Star Trek made from casting to pilots, to the struggles of getting good scripts to the screen, the chemistry of the show’s stars and some of their disagreements, the aliens the crew of the enterprise met, the problems and issues the show tackled, as well as the highpoints and low points of the series. The “Star Trek FAQ” also goes into post series life of the animated series, the conventions, the novels and novelizations, Roddenberry’s post Trek TV series’ and the attempts to revive a Star Trek series and leading right to the movies, inspired as much by Star Trek fandom and being Paramount’s antidote to the success of “Star Wars.”
There are a couple of minor caveats of the “Star Trek FAQ.” One is the repetition of certain Star Trek episodes as being models of the best episodes of Star Trek, writing, acting, or production such as “The Menagerie,” “Where No Man Has Gone Before,” “The City on the Edge of Forever,” “Arena,“ “Devil in the Dark,“ and their repeated synopsis’. And the reverse of that is the interjection of the author’s vociferous opinion on the worst episodes that descends into opinion such as “Let That Be Your Last Battlefield” which cleverly makes its point at the end of the episode.
Even if you’re a Star Trek fan you’ll discover new things about the series, and if you’re not a fan of the series by the end of the book you just might find yourself a Star Trek fan, and maybe a fan of the FAQ series.
June 28, 2012
(Reprinted from the Chicago Center for Literature and Photography [cclapcenter.com]. I am the original author of this essay, as well as the owner of CCLaP; it is not being reprinted illegally.)
Even the author of this trying book admits right in the introduction that there is now already a plethora of well-written books regarding each and every little sub-topic that exists concerning the long-running Star Trek franchise; and so that begs the question of why we should care about this newest one, or indeed why it even exists at all. And the answer after wading through this filler-crammed fluff piece is, "Hmm, I'm not exactly sure," which besides the serviceable, Wikipedia-quality cores of each chapter are otherwise padded out with the very definition of "page-filling pablum;" the trouble starts right at the beginning, with multi-page looks at every tiny little previous acting part every cast member of the original Star Trek had had before joining the show in the mid-1960s, and just pretty much gets worse from there. It's not terrible, which is why it isn't getting a terrible score; but like the author says, I found it difficult to understand why it even exists, and recommend that you instead pick up a better-written specific guide to whichever topic in particular you're most interested in.
Out of 10: 7.1
Even the author of this trying book admits right in the introduction that there is now already a plethora of well-written books regarding each and every little sub-topic that exists concerning the long-running Star Trek franchise; and so that begs the question of why we should care about this newest one, or indeed why it even exists at all. And the answer after wading through this filler-crammed fluff piece is, "Hmm, I'm not exactly sure," which besides the serviceable, Wikipedia-quality cores of each chapter are otherwise padded out with the very definition of "page-filling pablum;" the trouble starts right at the beginning, with multi-page looks at every tiny little previous acting part every cast member of the original Star Trek had had before joining the show in the mid-1960s, and just pretty much gets worse from there. It's not terrible, which is why it isn't getting a terrible score; but like the author says, I found it difficult to understand why it even exists, and recommend that you instead pick up a better-written specific guide to whichever topic in particular you're most interested in.
Out of 10: 7.1
July 30, 2017
I've read and heard much about Star Trek, but I learned things about the original series from this Star Trek FAQ that I did not know. I'm glad I took the time to read it.
June 2, 2012
A long time ago in our galaxy, not one far away, network television found itself hoodwinked when writer/producer Gene Roddenberry promised NBC "Wagon Train to the stars" and instead delivered the beginning of a new part of our culture, Star Trek.
For those who grew up on TOS (The Original Series), whether as teens waiting for 10 p.m. on Friday nights that final season or the syndication every weekday that endlessly recycled the original 79 episodes, Star Trek had it all and promised it all. We didn't kill ourselves during the Cold War. We ended Vietnam. We became an integrated society. We fulfilled President Kennedy's promise of space exploration. We could dream of becoming astronauts and our dreams could come true. We didn't have to be the popular kids to find a place to fit in, as David Gerrold eloquently explains in his foreward to a new compilation of behind-the-scene facts, background material and episode highlights, Star Trek FAQ.
Clark's compendium has many strengths, whether the reader is a first-generation Trekker or wondering what that big 2009 movie was based on. Clark provides a concise, highly readable, rundown of the original influences and executives in various companies who contributed to what became Trek. Although Trek was Roddenberry's baby, he had to run the gauntlet of studio and network approval to get that baby on the air.
The ins and outs not only show how difficult it is for any show to get on the air with any vestige of its original intent intact, it also chronicles how the Trek universe was refined and designed to become what ultimately became beloved. For example, the FAQ has excellent point-by-point notations of the contrasts between the original pilot -- "The Cage" -- and the final program that aired. Spock originally was meant to be more curious than logical. Jeffrey Hunter's Pike is closer to Roddenberry's version of Horatio Hornblower than that swashbuckler James Tiberius Kirk ended up being.
The episode guide is not "full service" because, as Clark notes, "there are plenty of those available elsewhere". However, all are included with thumbnail plot sketches and notes about other aspects such as broadcast history, guests and even such details as changes in scores and opening credits.
Worthwhile ideas to consider abound. In noting how Trek differed because it posits that mankind has survived and improved, there is a quick roundup of SF antecedents. It's about as cheery as The Hunger Games and other current examples of the popular YA genre of dystopian fiction. The chapter itself admirably brings together the examples of how mankind shows its better nature by rejecting killing and slavery through the run of TOS. Another Trek theme of a better civilization with cool gadgets that is still run by the people who made the gadgets, and not the gadgets themselves, is detailed in a thoughtful manner.
Religion and other social issues also are dealt with as part of Roddenberry's overall philosophy, refracted through the lens of the individual Trek episodes. A philosophy can be determined from the show: Hatred hurts and kills. Humanity is better than that. Religion is one way people have tried to control others over the years. Technology is a tool for humanity but not more important than its creators. IDIC (Infinite Diversitiy in Infinite Combinations) may have originated with the logical Vulcans, but it is a philosophy of empathy and acceptance, not mere tolerance.
The book also addresses, with specific examples, how TOS reflects the 1960s and the attitudes of men born in the 1920s who didn't quite get how their view of women didn't mesh with their intent to portray a future of equality and non-prejudice.
Subsequent Trek series are woven into the various accounts when necessary. That this is done without having the whole Trek universe take over the book, which remains focused on TOS, is an achievement worthy of praise.
Clark is not afraid to let his opinion show. The author really does not like Nimoy's singing and really likes Shatner's acting (even while acknowledging the bombasts). A lengthy chapter points out nearly every facial expression and line delivery that Shatner made. He does write about acting highlights of the other actors as well, devoting roughly same amount of space to each actor in relation to the importance of their characters.
At its weak points, the tone is total fan boy. At one point, Clark notes that when one considers how the other actors felt about Shatner, perhaps their characters beating up Kirk in one episode wasn't a stretch at acting. For the thumbnail of "The City on the Edge of Forever", Clark writes: "Come on, you don't really need a plot summary for this one, do you? OK, here goes:..." Oh, indulge us. This is a FAQ. Also, the availability of buying gadgets seen on Trek goes full geek. Then again, since some people are still waiting for their jet packs, why worry about buying a transporter?
And, unlike the author, it's possible to see that Next Generation's backing of Commander Data as a sentient being expands and fulfills the promise of equality for living beings, and does not, as he contends, soften the stance of humanity's superiority to any technology. Actually, including Data as a sentient being is nothing more than a logical extension of IDIC. All right. The very fact these idea come up in a review shows a strength in the overall presentation of information throughout the book.
Star Trek FAQ is an excellent addition to any Trek collection, for novice or expert. Based on the strength of this book, the upcoming edition dealing with later programs and the movies also will be worthwhile.
For those who grew up on TOS (The Original Series), whether as teens waiting for 10 p.m. on Friday nights that final season or the syndication every weekday that endlessly recycled the original 79 episodes, Star Trek had it all and promised it all. We didn't kill ourselves during the Cold War. We ended Vietnam. We became an integrated society. We fulfilled President Kennedy's promise of space exploration. We could dream of becoming astronauts and our dreams could come true. We didn't have to be the popular kids to find a place to fit in, as David Gerrold eloquently explains in his foreward to a new compilation of behind-the-scene facts, background material and episode highlights, Star Trek FAQ.
Clark's compendium has many strengths, whether the reader is a first-generation Trekker or wondering what that big 2009 movie was based on. Clark provides a concise, highly readable, rundown of the original influences and executives in various companies who contributed to what became Trek. Although Trek was Roddenberry's baby, he had to run the gauntlet of studio and network approval to get that baby on the air.
The ins and outs not only show how difficult it is for any show to get on the air with any vestige of its original intent intact, it also chronicles how the Trek universe was refined and designed to become what ultimately became beloved. For example, the FAQ has excellent point-by-point notations of the contrasts between the original pilot -- "The Cage" -- and the final program that aired. Spock originally was meant to be more curious than logical. Jeffrey Hunter's Pike is closer to Roddenberry's version of Horatio Hornblower than that swashbuckler James Tiberius Kirk ended up being.
The episode guide is not "full service" because, as Clark notes, "there are plenty of those available elsewhere". However, all are included with thumbnail plot sketches and notes about other aspects such as broadcast history, guests and even such details as changes in scores and opening credits.
Worthwhile ideas to consider abound. In noting how Trek differed because it posits that mankind has survived and improved, there is a quick roundup of SF antecedents. It's about as cheery as The Hunger Games and other current examples of the popular YA genre of dystopian fiction. The chapter itself admirably brings together the examples of how mankind shows its better nature by rejecting killing and slavery through the run of TOS. Another Trek theme of a better civilization with cool gadgets that is still run by the people who made the gadgets, and not the gadgets themselves, is detailed in a thoughtful manner.
Religion and other social issues also are dealt with as part of Roddenberry's overall philosophy, refracted through the lens of the individual Trek episodes. A philosophy can be determined from the show: Hatred hurts and kills. Humanity is better than that. Religion is one way people have tried to control others over the years. Technology is a tool for humanity but not more important than its creators. IDIC (Infinite Diversitiy in Infinite Combinations) may have originated with the logical Vulcans, but it is a philosophy of empathy and acceptance, not mere tolerance.
The book also addresses, with specific examples, how TOS reflects the 1960s and the attitudes of men born in the 1920s who didn't quite get how their view of women didn't mesh with their intent to portray a future of equality and non-prejudice.
Subsequent Trek series are woven into the various accounts when necessary. That this is done without having the whole Trek universe take over the book, which remains focused on TOS, is an achievement worthy of praise.
Clark is not afraid to let his opinion show. The author really does not like Nimoy's singing and really likes Shatner's acting (even while acknowledging the bombasts). A lengthy chapter points out nearly every facial expression and line delivery that Shatner made. He does write about acting highlights of the other actors as well, devoting roughly same amount of space to each actor in relation to the importance of their characters.
At its weak points, the tone is total fan boy. At one point, Clark notes that when one considers how the other actors felt about Shatner, perhaps their characters beating up Kirk in one episode wasn't a stretch at acting. For the thumbnail of "The City on the Edge of Forever", Clark writes: "Come on, you don't really need a plot summary for this one, do you? OK, here goes:..." Oh, indulge us. This is a FAQ. Also, the availability of buying gadgets seen on Trek goes full geek. Then again, since some people are still waiting for their jet packs, why worry about buying a transporter?
And, unlike the author, it's possible to see that Next Generation's backing of Commander Data as a sentient being expands and fulfills the promise of equality for living beings, and does not, as he contends, soften the stance of humanity's superiority to any technology. Actually, including Data as a sentient being is nothing more than a logical extension of IDIC. All right. The very fact these idea come up in a review shows a strength in the overall presentation of information throughout the book.
Star Trek FAQ is an excellent addition to any Trek collection, for novice or expert. Based on the strength of this book, the upcoming edition dealing with later programs and the movies also will be worthwhile.
June 17, 2012
YES! YES! YES!
See those three guys on the cover? Bones, Spock, and Kirk? My first tv crushes, my first real celebrity crushes. Now, Scotty is actually my favorite, but he didn't make the cover, boo hiss. Bones is my second favorite and it's a close call, they're practically tied for favorite. I have a photo of James Doohan as Scotty, SIGNED! Heck, Scotty is one of my nicknames (despite my utter lack of mechanical ability). So, yeah, when the egalley of this book became available for review, requesting it was only logical. :) I also ordered a print copy.
Call me a Trekkie, Trekker, Trekaholic, whatever. I'm not too picky about the term used. I'm a fan; not one who knows every last detail down to Zefram Cochrane's birthday (if I did, I wouldn't need the book, lol.) but more than just a casual fan, who, say, knows the names of the big 3 stars but none of others. I'm in the middle. I had a fair amount of knowledge already. That was a pretty good starting base for this book. Actually, this book would be good for the casual fan who wants to know more about the series, and also for the committed fan who wants or needs a new reference source.
This is a comprehensive book that looks at just about everything related to the show (there may be some things forgotten or left out but nothing comes to mind.) Clark made each chapter stand-alone so that the reader can easily skip chapters if they decide:
"While it's perfectly acceptable to read this book front to back, Star Trek FAQ has been designed for nonlinear consumption. Each chapter functions independently. Although this inevitably results in some duplication of information between sections, I have tried to minimize repetition. So feel free to flip around."
This format works well, and I recommend it over reading straight through as I did.
David Gerrold, who wrote the classic episode, "The Trouble with Tribbles" (or DID he? Read and find out.), in his forward to the book, talks about how much has already been written about Star Trek:
"Maybe it's time to call in the EPA. A new Star Trek movie or TV series will cause whole forests to be plowed under, cause the sea level to rise, and the deplete the oxygen levels of this planet. I fear for the future of humanity!
Okay, and maybe I had too much coffee this morning, too.".....
"The important thing here is that a lot has been said about Star Trek and a lot of the stuff said about Star Trek has been like a game of Russian Telephone."...
The point being of course, that much has been written and said and passed on, but much of it is inaccurate. Clark pulls together numerous sources (there's a comprehensive bibliography), from the actors, the studio, producers, series writers, even TV Guide, and presents the facts. He does so in a chatty, easy to read, sometimes humorous, way that felt like I was talking about the show with one of my ST loving friends. He also goes beyond details such as who wrote which episode but gives us the behind the scenes info: in many instances Roddenberry re-wrote episodes, some so much so that it bore little resemblance to the script submitted by the credited writer. He also looks at the acting careers of the ST actors, all of them, before and after their stints on ST, looks at the various conflicts amongst actors and producers, talks about why ST had the impact it did, how it fits into TV's history of science fiction shows, influences, awards, Roddenberry's inspiration, etc. As I said, it's comprehensive.
I enjoyed this book and recommend it for anyone who has any interest at all in the original Star Trek show. Clark is at work on a sequel, Star Trek FAQ 2.0, scheduled for 2013, that will look at the growth of the ST franchise, including the movies and the TV spin-off, Star Trek: The Next Generation.
I received an egalley from the publisher for review.
See those three guys on the cover? Bones, Spock, and Kirk? My first tv crushes, my first real celebrity crushes. Now, Scotty is actually my favorite, but he didn't make the cover, boo hiss. Bones is my second favorite and it's a close call, they're practically tied for favorite. I have a photo of James Doohan as Scotty, SIGNED! Heck, Scotty is one of my nicknames (despite my utter lack of mechanical ability). So, yeah, when the egalley of this book became available for review, requesting it was only logical. :) I also ordered a print copy.
Call me a Trekkie, Trekker, Trekaholic, whatever. I'm not too picky about the term used. I'm a fan; not one who knows every last detail down to Zefram Cochrane's birthday (if I did, I wouldn't need the book, lol.) but more than just a casual fan, who, say, knows the names of the big 3 stars but none of others. I'm in the middle. I had a fair amount of knowledge already. That was a pretty good starting base for this book. Actually, this book would be good for the casual fan who wants to know more about the series, and also for the committed fan who wants or needs a new reference source.
This is a comprehensive book that looks at just about everything related to the show (there may be some things forgotten or left out but nothing comes to mind.) Clark made each chapter stand-alone so that the reader can easily skip chapters if they decide:
"While it's perfectly acceptable to read this book front to back, Star Trek FAQ has been designed for nonlinear consumption. Each chapter functions independently. Although this inevitably results in some duplication of information between sections, I have tried to minimize repetition. So feel free to flip around."
This format works well, and I recommend it over reading straight through as I did.
David Gerrold, who wrote the classic episode, "The Trouble with Tribbles" (or DID he? Read and find out.), in his forward to the book, talks about how much has already been written about Star Trek:
"Maybe it's time to call in the EPA. A new Star Trek movie or TV series will cause whole forests to be plowed under, cause the sea level to rise, and the deplete the oxygen levels of this planet. I fear for the future of humanity!
Okay, and maybe I had too much coffee this morning, too.".....
"The important thing here is that a lot has been said about Star Trek and a lot of the stuff said about Star Trek has been like a game of Russian Telephone."...
The point being of course, that much has been written and said and passed on, but much of it is inaccurate. Clark pulls together numerous sources (there's a comprehensive bibliography), from the actors, the studio, producers, series writers, even TV Guide, and presents the facts. He does so in a chatty, easy to read, sometimes humorous, way that felt like I was talking about the show with one of my ST loving friends. He also goes beyond details such as who wrote which episode but gives us the behind the scenes info: in many instances Roddenberry re-wrote episodes, some so much so that it bore little resemblance to the script submitted by the credited writer. He also looks at the acting careers of the ST actors, all of them, before and after their stints on ST, looks at the various conflicts amongst actors and producers, talks about why ST had the impact it did, how it fits into TV's history of science fiction shows, influences, awards, Roddenberry's inspiration, etc. As I said, it's comprehensive.
I enjoyed this book and recommend it for anyone who has any interest at all in the original Star Trek show. Clark is at work on a sequel, Star Trek FAQ 2.0, scheduled for 2013, that will look at the growth of the ST franchise, including the movies and the TV spin-off, Star Trek: The Next Generation.
I received an egalley from the publisher for review.
December 24, 2017
This narrative tells the story of the original “Star Trek” series. Beginning with the books, the films, and the television shows that inspired Gene Roddenberry to create “Star Trek,” the text concludes with the 1978 announcement of the first feature film. Along with the “pre-history” of the show, there are chapters providing behind the scenes information, social commentary, and the legacy of the show.
A must for all fans of the series; the inclusion of profiles of actors, redshirt extras, writers, and technicians makes this a not-to-be-overlooked reference for Trekkies everywhere.
Recommended.
A must for all fans of the series; the inclusion of profiles of actors, redshirt extras, writers, and technicians makes this a not-to-be-overlooked reference for Trekkies everywhere.
Recommended.
September 14, 2018
As a diehard Trekkie, I approached this book with misgivings. But I enjoyed it; much of the info I knew already but, surprise! some was new. And even the “same ol stuff” was presented in a fun informative way.
May 13, 2019
Interesting, with some good quotes. The best part was all the trekkie stuff in one place.
January 24, 2025
A little dry to read. A lot i could skip over, but enjoyed dipping my way thorugh it.
February 6, 2018
There really isn't much new here, but I enjoyed visiting the world of "Star Trek" again. It's a shame that the series and actors were treated so badly (by the powers that be and by Shatner). Star Trek was an amazing and fantastic series, and I can't help but wonder how much better it could have been if given the proper support. There are a couple of specific points about this book that bugged me:
1) The title is misleading. This is not "everything left to know" since the vast majority of the book's contents are already known. Also, there are no "Frequently Asked Questions' here. In fact, there are no questions at all.
2) Clark mentions that Bones says a variation of "I'm a doctor, Jim, not a ...." nineteen times. He then gives two examples. What are the other seventeen? This is a perfect example of what a FAQ would be: How many different "I'm a doctor, Jim, not a ,..." were there and what are they?
1) The title is misleading. This is not "everything left to know" since the vast majority of the book's contents are already known. Also, there are no "Frequently Asked Questions' here. In fact, there are no questions at all.
2) Clark mentions that Bones says a variation of "I'm a doctor, Jim, not a ...." nineteen times. He then gives two examples. What are the other seventeen? This is a perfect example of what a FAQ would be: How many different "I'm a doctor, Jim, not a ,..." were there and what are they?
July 2, 2012
Chances are, even if you’re not a fan of Star Trek (in any of its incarnations), you can reference Captain Kirk, “live long and prosper,” and “beam me up, Scottie” in conversation. Casual fans may remember the episode with the tribbles or visiting Vulcan. True fans know “beam me up, Scottie” was never uttered on screen.
Mark Clark’s Star Trek FAQ: Everything Left to Know About the Voyages of the First Starship Enterprise serves all three classes of fans. As he explains in his introduction:
Star Trek FAQ is primarily a historical account, with some analysis and criticism to provide perspective …. While it’s perfectly acceptable to read this book front to back, Star Trek FAQ has been designed for nonlinear consumption. Each chapter functions independently.
Clark’s self-assessment is on the money. Repetition can’t be avoided given how the book is organized. Fans of any stripe will be better served by dipping into sections that catch their eye from time to time. Not every section is for every reader.
Star Trek FAQ doesn’t take an academic approach, but it isn’t a tell-all book of feuds and dressing room hi-jinks either. Clark manages to hit both notes though.
He addresses Gene Roddenberry’s goals in creating the show and uses it to provide commentary on modern society and to answer why the show’s popularity carried on from the original series through four expansions of the universe on TV plus movies, books and a pervasive hold on pop culture:
Roddenberry’s vision of a future where the ancient evils of war, poverty, and racism have been replaced by peace, prosperity, and brotherhood comforted its audience during the turbulent 1960s and continues to reassure viewers today …. Until his vision becomes a reality – something that, sadly, is unlikely to happen any sooner than the twenty-third century – Star Trek will continue to serve as a beacon of hope.
The book starts with the creation of the show. For hard-core fans, the list of influences won’t provide any surprises, but Clark does a good job showing the specific pieces Roddenberry took from his muses. Bios of the original cast highlight their pre-Trek appearances, but misses the opportunity to explain why the actors were hired for their particular roles.
One of the highlights of the book is how Clark covers the episodes. Instead of a season-by-season plot summary, he divides his episodic discussion into villain type. Tribbles show up in the monster category, while “malignant life forces” highlights Redjac (“Wolf in the Fold”). Technological terrors and madmen round out the villain section. Vulcans, Klingons and Romulans have their own chapter. Other episodes are discussed according to the show’s setting: strangely familiar worlds, strange old worlds (the time travel episodes), strange new dimensions and strange new worlds.
The organization works well and may send you searching for reruns to spot connections you may have missed the first (or forty-first) time you watched the series.
One of the best sections covers Trek technology. It explains what the tech does, how it works and whether we may ever see it. It’s a great introduction for someone new to Star Trek and offers some laughs for longtime fans. For example, on when man will ever see the transporter come to life:
So when can I buy one? Right after you ride your unicorn over to Frodo’s house and borrow his magic ring. The transporter defies so many of the basic laws of physics that it is, essentially, a fantasy element dressed up as science fiction.
Some sections are for true die-hard fans who want every detail down to music rights and how score changes were needed because of rights issues when the show was released on VHS but restored for the DVD release. Casual fans may skip these sections.
At times, Clark provides a little too much information. A section on Star Trek’s competition covers Bewitched with details about the cast switch, influences on the series, spinoffs and the 2005 movie. The section on famous actors, scientists and politicians who were Trek fans may be interesting to some, but may seem like too much padding to others.
The FAQ ends flatly (famous fans precedes a bibliography) for a book that began by addressing Roddenberry’s philosophy behind the series. Perhaps Clark’s planned sequel, which will look at the movies and Star Trek: The Next Generation, will bring those opening thoughts full circle. For now though, Star Trek FAQ can be a book with which to dip your feet into the Star Trek universe or with which to add to your knowledge of Trek minutiae.
Mark Clark’s Star Trek FAQ: Everything Left to Know About the Voyages of the First Starship Enterprise serves all three classes of fans. As he explains in his introduction:
Star Trek FAQ is primarily a historical account, with some analysis and criticism to provide perspective …. While it’s perfectly acceptable to read this book front to back, Star Trek FAQ has been designed for nonlinear consumption. Each chapter functions independently.
Clark’s self-assessment is on the money. Repetition can’t be avoided given how the book is organized. Fans of any stripe will be better served by dipping into sections that catch their eye from time to time. Not every section is for every reader.
Star Trek FAQ doesn’t take an academic approach, but it isn’t a tell-all book of feuds and dressing room hi-jinks either. Clark manages to hit both notes though.
He addresses Gene Roddenberry’s goals in creating the show and uses it to provide commentary on modern society and to answer why the show’s popularity carried on from the original series through four expansions of the universe on TV plus movies, books and a pervasive hold on pop culture:
Roddenberry’s vision of a future where the ancient evils of war, poverty, and racism have been replaced by peace, prosperity, and brotherhood comforted its audience during the turbulent 1960s and continues to reassure viewers today …. Until his vision becomes a reality – something that, sadly, is unlikely to happen any sooner than the twenty-third century – Star Trek will continue to serve as a beacon of hope.
The book starts with the creation of the show. For hard-core fans, the list of influences won’t provide any surprises, but Clark does a good job showing the specific pieces Roddenberry took from his muses. Bios of the original cast highlight their pre-Trek appearances, but misses the opportunity to explain why the actors were hired for their particular roles.
One of the highlights of the book is how Clark covers the episodes. Instead of a season-by-season plot summary, he divides his episodic discussion into villain type. Tribbles show up in the monster category, while “malignant life forces” highlights Redjac (“Wolf in the Fold”). Technological terrors and madmen round out the villain section. Vulcans, Klingons and Romulans have their own chapter. Other episodes are discussed according to the show’s setting: strangely familiar worlds, strange old worlds (the time travel episodes), strange new dimensions and strange new worlds.
The organization works well and may send you searching for reruns to spot connections you may have missed the first (or forty-first) time you watched the series.
One of the best sections covers Trek technology. It explains what the tech does, how it works and whether we may ever see it. It’s a great introduction for someone new to Star Trek and offers some laughs for longtime fans. For example, on when man will ever see the transporter come to life:
So when can I buy one? Right after you ride your unicorn over to Frodo’s house and borrow his magic ring. The transporter defies so many of the basic laws of physics that it is, essentially, a fantasy element dressed up as science fiction.
Some sections are for true die-hard fans who want every detail down to music rights and how score changes were needed because of rights issues when the show was released on VHS but restored for the DVD release. Casual fans may skip these sections.
At times, Clark provides a little too much information. A section on Star Trek’s competition covers Bewitched with details about the cast switch, influences on the series, spinoffs and the 2005 movie. The section on famous actors, scientists and politicians who were Trek fans may be interesting to some, but may seem like too much padding to others.
The FAQ ends flatly (famous fans precedes a bibliography) for a book that began by addressing Roddenberry’s philosophy behind the series. Perhaps Clark’s planned sequel, which will look at the movies and Star Trek: The Next Generation, will bring those opening thoughts full circle. For now though, Star Trek FAQ can be a book with which to dip your feet into the Star Trek universe or with which to add to your knowledge of Trek minutiae.
August 14, 2013
This book really does function as a useful FAQ, providing an overview of the show's inception, technical and production aspects, and biographical basics about the actors. The 2009 release of J.J. Abrams' Star Trek was set in an alternate universe and attracted its own legions of fans, some of whom were less familiar with the TOS Star Trek television series (The Original Series). Although a wealth of fan-driven communities and Trek information are available online, this book serves as an introduction to various aspects of the show. New fans could start with this FAQ and then go online to research details of weaponry, costuming, or Vulcan culture. For example, fans can go online and read costuming discussions providing precise details for recreating the style of uniform tunic worn by the bridge crew in TOS Season Two. Curiously, Trek fanworks receive only a brief mention. However, Trek fan culture has been exhaustively researched, filmed, and discussed elsewhere – both in popular culture and in academia.
Some of the show's most notable qualities – special effects, worldbuilding, screenplays by Some of the most admired science fiction authors of the 20th century, a multiethnic cast, storylines dealing with war, bigotry – are placed within a brief but useful historical context.
Overall, this guide would make a good gift for the newbie Trek fan, or anyone seeking general knowledge about TOS Star Trek who would like to understand how it earned its place of honor in popular culture.
Some of the show's most notable qualities – special effects, worldbuilding, screenplays by Some of the most admired science fiction authors of the 20th century, a multiethnic cast, storylines dealing with war, bigotry – are placed within a brief but useful historical context.
Overall, this guide would make a good gift for the newbie Trek fan, or anyone seeking general knowledge about TOS Star Trek who would like to understand how it earned its place of honor in popular culture.
April 30, 2012
A comprehensive and exhaustive work on the original series. This should be the final word on the original series (but it probably won't). Mark Clark has assembled an amazing work from all the other works and biographies that have been written.
Although it is an FAQ, I read it straight through. I don't recommend this approach. This is more of a reference work to dive into to look for specific information. Reading straight through leads to some repetition (as should be expected), but each chapter is cohesive and enjoyable.
The information presented covers everything, from a history of Gene Roddenberry and how he came to dream up Star Trek, to what the major cast members did before and after the show. There is information on the awards it was nominated for, the major fights among cast and crew, and how the fans refused to let the series die.
There is something here for newcomers who want to learn about the series, all the way up to die-hard fans who think they know everything there is to know.
Although it is an FAQ, I read it straight through. I don't recommend this approach. This is more of a reference work to dive into to look for specific information. Reading straight through leads to some repetition (as should be expected), but each chapter is cohesive and enjoyable.
The information presented covers everything, from a history of Gene Roddenberry and how he came to dream up Star Trek, to what the major cast members did before and after the show. There is information on the awards it was nominated for, the major fights among cast and crew, and how the fans refused to let the series die.
There is something here for newcomers who want to learn about the series, all the way up to die-hard fans who think they know everything there is to know.
April 9, 2012
Having been hooked on the Original Star Trek as a child, I thought I knew a lot about it. Well this book is filled with things I never knew, things I forgot I knew and things I didn't know anyone knew about Star Trek! An informative, fun and interesting read for anyone who has even seen Star Trek and wondered what was behind it. Other shows that had an influence on it, how the various writers and directors affected it, where and how a lot of our most familiar props came into existence. There are tidbits about the "Great Bird" (Roddenberry), what came before and what has come after. For anyone studying American Culture, this book would be a great asset! Even if you are not a "Trekkie" you may find many of the things in this book interesting!
September 30, 2016
This is an excellent primer on many things Trek, both in front of and behind the camera. It is well researched and follows a mostly linear order through the creation, production, and post-broadcast life of Star Trek: The Original Series. I only learned a few new things here because I have read so much about the production, but this is a good starting point for anyone interested in the final frontier.
August 24, 2012
If you're a fan of the show, you'll enjoy this book. You may think you know all there is to know about the original series, but I guarantee you'll come away with a fresh tidbit of information to appreciate about the show and it's creators. It's worth the 500 quatloos I paid for it.
June 5, 2012
This is a delightful compendium! Although I bought it for a friend's birthday, I couldn't resist dipping into it.
May 18, 2012
Lots of fun and background on the show, actors and most everyone involved in the making of Star Trek, and its lasting influences on our society.
May 1, 2015
a great book about star trek & the questions you might want to know about it!
December 9, 2013
Long time Trekkers will not find much new here but it's still an entertaining read. I liked the short chapter format; made it easy to stop and start frequently.
March 29, 2014
Great for fans of the original series.
August 15, 2014
Completely and happy to
be biased toward this author!
be biased toward this author!
March 30, 2018
A concise synopsis of the making of the original series, with trivia and critical commentary scattered throughout. Covers wide range of topics, but not in any depth.
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