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Fringe: September's Notebook
Delve into television’s most otherworldly phenomenon! Fringe: September’s Notebook is a uniquely in-world collection that explores the intricate destinies of Walter Bishop, Peter Bishop, and Olivia Dunham. Gathered by the Observer known only as “September,” these pages reveal new truths about the Fringe Division and Massive Dynamic. The book also closely examines the Amber timeline and the alternate universe “Over There.” Packed with concept art, exclusive photos, and intriguing ephemera, September’s Notebook will satisfy every serious fan’s hunger for details about the Observers, quirks and little-known facts about each character, insight into Fringe Science, and much more. “Easter eggs” throughout build on the many symbols and codes woven into the show’s fabric, uncovering truths never before revealed. With its layered storytelling, well-rendered characters, and complex overarching narrative, Fringe is the ideal show around which to publish, and Fringe: September’s Notebook provides a totally immersive reading experience.
192 pages, Hardcover
First published November 20, 2012
16 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
About the author
Tara Bennett
25 books65 followersTara Bennett (formerly DiLullo) is the author or co-author of 30 official movie and TV companion books including The Story of Marvel Studios:
The Making of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Sons of Anarchy: The Official Companion, The Official Making of Outlander Companions (Seasons 1 - 4), The Lost Encyclopedia, and September's Notebook: A Fringe Companion which was an Amazon Best Book of the Year.
She has also written nearly a thousand interviews and features for print and online publications such as: Total Film, Paste Magazine, IGN, SYFY WIRE, LOST: The Official Magazine, Alias Magazine, 24 Magazine, SCI FI Magazine, WSJSpeakeasy, Fandango/Movies.com, Fancast, Newsarama and VFXWorld.com. She is also the U.S. Editor for the world’s premiere sci-fi/fantasy publication, SFX Magazine.
Tara is also an adjunct professor at Rowan University in New Jersey, teaching Film and Television studies. As part of her curriculum, Bennett utilizes programs such as LOST and 24 to teach her students how to write for television.
The Making of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Sons of Anarchy: The Official Companion, The Official Making of Outlander Companions (Seasons 1 - 4), The Lost Encyclopedia, and September's Notebook: A Fringe Companion which was an Amazon Best Book of the Year.
She has also written nearly a thousand interviews and features for print and online publications such as: Total Film, Paste Magazine, IGN, SYFY WIRE, LOST: The Official Magazine, Alias Magazine, 24 Magazine, SCI FI Magazine, WSJSpeakeasy, Fandango/Movies.com, Fancast, Newsarama and VFXWorld.com. She is also the U.S. Editor for the world’s premiere sci-fi/fantasy publication, SFX Magazine.
Tara is also an adjunct professor at Rowan University in New Jersey, teaching Film and Television studies. As part of her curriculum, Bennett utilizes programs such as LOST and 24 to teach her students how to write for television.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 6, 2013
I managed to read my entire copy of Fringe: September's Notebook in two days. It's a thick book, quite heavy and large. I was glad I pre-ordered my copy as I can see it's already got a long wait on Amazon for anyone looking to order. It retails for $49.99 quite a hefty price tag on a book with a series that has ended. I managed to get mine for $28.41.
Fringe: September's Notebook reminds me of a few childhood books I read that included envelopes with surprise letters stuffed inside. This book was no different with the additional add on's included. For example the strip of pictures of Peter & Bolivia were included. As was a pull out of the machine and Peter's face with the glowing fire coming out of his eyes. It also included a small poster of Etta Bishop with the word "Resist" on it.
One of my favorite inclusions was the full speech Peter Bishop wrote (and gave) when Olivia had died during the third season finale.
It took some actual reading of the book to understand a few finer points. If you're like me and decided at some point to just breeze through and see the extras, you'll be sorely disappointed when you find an empty envelope where a white tulip should have been inside. At first glance I was shocked. I even suspected that mine had been left out. I searched for an answer online and someone else had the same question. The author on Amazon commented "It's empty because of how the show ended." That only left me more perplexed. How could it be empty? The show ended with Peter having been sent a white tulip. Was it because September had sent him the white tulip to let him know Walter was okay? This book was supposed to answer questions, not make more! Frustrated, I continued reading and found that on page 169, September explains how he gave the white tulip from this very notebook to Walter. Yes! I actually remember this scene from an episode! Is that what the author was trying to tell us?
Okay so I admit I am a little disappointed I don't get my very own white tulip in the envelope. I mean it did include a ton of other goodies including temporary tattoos (of the observer language!) Which are super cool. I could very well draw my own white tulip and stick it inside.
On a side note, I did find two errors within the context of the descriptions. Yes there were a lot of descriptions. The book reveals from the beginning of our world - William Bell & Walter Bishop tinkering with their experiments, a sick Peter Bishop, the Cortexiphan trials and eventually the beginning of the Fringe Division team. It further elaborates on every version of Walter, Peter, Olivia, Broyles, Astrid, Nina and Bell. There was a lot to read and almost everything was of course a rehash of what hardcore fans already knew. Did it make me enjoy it any less? No. I do wish there'd been a few more insights that we hadn't gotten from the show. There were a handful but the only significant enough to mention was September waiting for Walter to come in 2015. Of course we knew he wasn't coming and then eventually you turn the page and its blank, as in they were wiped from history.
I did love and appreciate the forward by Joel Wyman and Jeff Pinkner. It was nice to see it addressed "To the Fringe Faithful," because let's face it, without us fans the show wouldn't have lasted as long as it did or had a fifth and final season to give us a satisfying conclusion.
I would recommend the book for any Fringe die-hard fans that want it as a token to remember the show by.
Fringe: September's Notebook reminds me of a few childhood books I read that included envelopes with surprise letters stuffed inside. This book was no different with the additional add on's included. For example the strip of pictures of Peter & Bolivia were included. As was a pull out of the machine and Peter's face with the glowing fire coming out of his eyes. It also included a small poster of Etta Bishop with the word "Resist" on it.
One of my favorite inclusions was the full speech Peter Bishop wrote (and gave) when Olivia had died during the third season finale.
It took some actual reading of the book to understand a few finer points. If you're like me and decided at some point to just breeze through and see the extras, you'll be sorely disappointed when you find an empty envelope where a white tulip should have been inside. At first glance I was shocked. I even suspected that mine had been left out. I searched for an answer online and someone else had the same question. The author on Amazon commented "It's empty because of how the show ended." That only left me more perplexed. How could it be empty? The show ended with Peter having been sent a white tulip. Was it because September had sent him the white tulip to let him know Walter was okay? This book was supposed to answer questions, not make more! Frustrated, I continued reading and found that on page 169, September explains how he gave the white tulip from this very notebook to Walter. Yes! I actually remember this scene from an episode! Is that what the author was trying to tell us?
Okay so I admit I am a little disappointed I don't get my very own white tulip in the envelope. I mean it did include a ton of other goodies including temporary tattoos (of the observer language!) Which are super cool. I could very well draw my own white tulip and stick it inside.
On a side note, I did find two errors within the context of the descriptions. Yes there were a lot of descriptions. The book reveals from the beginning of our world - William Bell & Walter Bishop tinkering with their experiments, a sick Peter Bishop, the Cortexiphan trials and eventually the beginning of the Fringe Division team. It further elaborates on every version of Walter, Peter, Olivia, Broyles, Astrid, Nina and Bell. There was a lot to read and almost everything was of course a rehash of what hardcore fans already knew. Did it make me enjoy it any less? No. I do wish there'd been a few more insights that we hadn't gotten from the show. There were a handful but the only significant enough to mention was September waiting for Walter to come in 2015. Of course we knew he wasn't coming and then eventually you turn the page and its blank, as in they were wiped from history.
I did love and appreciate the forward by Joel Wyman and Jeff Pinkner. It was nice to see it addressed "To the Fringe Faithful," because let's face it, without us fans the show wouldn't have lasted as long as it did or had a fifth and final season to give us a satisfying conclusion.
I would recommend the book for any Fringe die-hard fans that want it as a token to remember the show by.
need-it-like-air
March 29, 2013I NEED THIS LIKE AIR.
April 5, 2023
I watched "Fringe" for the first time almost a decade after its finale. And I fell in love with it. And I needed this book. I found the French edition and I think this is an awesome companion book to the series. September is such a great character and the idea to tell the story from his perspective was excellent. September's notebook reminded me of my high-school scrapbooks full of photos, paper cuts, notes. Of course Walter Bishop is the main character - Walter and September know each other for a long time and they share lots of secrets. I expected to read more about September's perspective and about his thoughts and... feelings. I loved all the Easter eggs, wished they included a few more.
November 22, 2023
I found out about September's notebook directly after watching the Fringe series. I wish I had found out about it before I watched Fringe, as it would have been an excellent companion to the TV series itself. However, if you're looking for a bunch of additional information on the series, such as extra lore or backstory, I'm not sure you'll find much to scratch that itch. It's presentation is very good, and it really does an excellent job of documenting all the details of the show from start to finish in a way that looks like you're exploring case files. It is technically written by September's point of view, but I wouldn't say it has a lot of insight into his character or a new spin on what you've already experienced in the show. It would add an incredible amount of clarity to the experience of someone watching an episode and then reviewing the notebook, or someone who watched fringe when it first came out and wants to relive the experience without spending all the time of watching the show again. Overall I was very entertained by it, and especially enjoyed the pictures of the differences in the universes and the experience of opening the envelopes, but I do wish I had found some actual secrets held within them.
March 31, 2023
4.5 stars. I loved this companion book. The design was great and it filled in a few gaps the show just didn’t mention. There are 3 reasons I’d give it 4.5 stars versus 5. The first being that I would’ve liked more background about the “over there” characters. The second being the rehashing of information that any die-hard Fringe fan intrinsically knows, though it could be a good refresher for people who aren’t big into rewatching shows like I am. The final reason is that there are multiple inaccuracies, such as names, incorrect info in the case files, incorrect description of how sone things happened…things like that (I literally just rewatched the entire series while simultaneously reading this). This surprised me because 2 of the executive producers contributed to this book and the show was VERY solid and strong in its storylines, backstory, and canon. It’s not a big deal. It’s actually really minute considering how wonderful this book is. But I’m a stickler for accuracy when it comes to canon and shows. If you’re just a casual fan of Fringe - maybe borrow the book. If you’re a huge fan or die-hard fan this is a must own item.
March 17, 2018
Fringe: September's Notebook (written by Tara Bennett and Paul Terry) is a unique experience for fans of the FOX television series Fringe (one of my favorite television shows of all time, if not my favorite) because it interestingly functions as both a guide to the television series and also as a companion piece to it, as much of the book is from the perspective of September, a central character of the television series. Most of the book is composed of what September has observed and documented about the characters and events of Fringe. September's observations are definitely my favorite parts of the book, as they are the most interesting and most fun to read, but the book also features case files that summarize the events of most of the show's episodes during seasons 1-4. (There are no case files for the fifth and final season of Fringe because of the nature of that season, as fans of Fringe would understand.) I have never been more passionate in my life about a television series as I am about Fringe, so I am always down to read about it, but compared to September's observations, the case files are a bit tedious and difficult to get through. As I said, they are pretty much just episode summaries, and even though they are done in a unique way (given that they are meant to be actual Fringe Division case files), they don't really offer any new information or fresh perspective(s). I also, at times, found myself frustrated with the design of the book; it was impossible to read the entirety of some of the case files because the next one would overlap and be on a separate piece of paper glued to the page, and there was no way to lift that separate piece of paper up enough to read the part(s) of the preceding case file that was/were covered. I don't know if Bennett and Terry intended for those pieces of paper to be removed entirely, but that would be silly because (a) I wasn't about to attempt that and risk damaging the book, especially since it was pretty expensive, and (b) you wouldn't be able to reattach those now loose case files, and they would be at risk of getting lost. I really did not appreciate that aspect of the design of the book, but most of the book's design is partly what, as I said before, makes it a unique experience. Exclusive and never-before-seen photos are included, as are blueprints, drawings, letters, logos, and so forth, and it's also somewhat of a hands-on experience, as you sometimes have to unfold pages or remove materials from manila envelopes in order to see them. As a rabid fan of Fringe (known affectionately by some of its fans as The Show That Lived), I vehemently enjoyed reading Fringe: September's Notebook, but as I said, I do wish that certain parts of it (the case files) had been laid out differently, and between that frustrating impracticality and quite a bit of typographical errors that I caught, it seems like it was rushed (which is odd because it underwent several delays before finally being released). I would only recommend it to fans of Fringe; I can't see there being any room for appreciation if you haven't seen the television series, and many details would be very confusing.
Want to read
July 5, 2013I WANT THIS FOR MY BIRTHDAY. This is probably never going to happen, but one can dream about an alternate reality.
September 15, 2021
In-universe journals and guidebooks run a wide range in terms of providing new content, fun extras, cool pictures, or an overall slick physical item that's fun to flip through. September's Notebook wasn't exactly bad, but it didn't have the balance of things I like in in-universe works like this and felt very repetitive.
September's Notebook is basically the ultimate guidebook to the world of Fringe. It recaps the entire series from start to finish and provides some cool extras along the way. It had been years since I saw Fringe (as it aired live), so it was nice to have my memory jogged and think about some of the standout episodes of the series. I absolutely loved Fringe, so it was fun to see pictures, drawings, and notes from in the universe. There were also a couple cool extras included in the book like temporary tattoos and posters you could hang on a wall.
Unfortunately, that's about all there is to it. September -- who, if you're reading this review, you likely remember as the main Observer character in the series -- doesn't really have much of a distinct voice or perspective in the writing. I never felt like I was getting HIS thoughts or feelings (to the degree he had them) about what happened, just recaps that could just as easily be written by a generic narrator. And in addition to recapping the series in narrative form ostensibly from September's point of view, we ALSO get recaps of each Fringe Division case which feels like just artificial padding that retreads the same ground and doesn't even feel like part of September's narrative.
If you're a huge Fringe fan, it's probably worth picking this up as a collectable piece. The posters are cool, and it's a good way to remind yourself about the highlights of the series. But just be warned -- this is much more a regular show guidebook than an in-universe notebook from September. If you're in to the sort of thing, you'll probably like it! But for journal lovers like me, it didn't quite fit the bill.
September's Notebook is basically the ultimate guidebook to the world of Fringe. It recaps the entire series from start to finish and provides some cool extras along the way. It had been years since I saw Fringe (as it aired live), so it was nice to have my memory jogged and think about some of the standout episodes of the series. I absolutely loved Fringe, so it was fun to see pictures, drawings, and notes from in the universe. There were also a couple cool extras included in the book like temporary tattoos and posters you could hang on a wall.
Unfortunately, that's about all there is to it. September -- who, if you're reading this review, you likely remember as the main Observer character in the series -- doesn't really have much of a distinct voice or perspective in the writing. I never felt like I was getting HIS thoughts or feelings (to the degree he had them) about what happened, just recaps that could just as easily be written by a generic narrator. And in addition to recapping the series in narrative form ostensibly from September's point of view, we ALSO get recaps of each Fringe Division case which feels like just artificial padding that retreads the same ground and doesn't even feel like part of September's narrative.
If you're a huge Fringe fan, it's probably worth picking this up as a collectable piece. The posters are cool, and it's a good way to remind yourself about the highlights of the series. But just be warned -- this is much more a regular show guidebook than an in-universe notebook from September. If you're in to the sort of thing, you'll probably like it! But for journal lovers like me, it didn't quite fit the bill.
June 12, 2022
This is not an episode-by-episode review of Fringe (though there are summaries of a number of key episodes), but rather a telling of the Fringe story through a friendly Observer's eyes. If you are a fan of Fringe and are of a mind to re-watch, this is a good companion book to have. I read it along with my re-watch and thoroughly enjoyed the synergy. One note of warning, if you get ahead of the series there are spoilers.
October 16, 2017
What a well done addition to the TV series for every fan! The book contains all necessary information about characters and events of Fringe. It also filled a few holes for me - details that I did not catch while watching the episodes. It is an excellent summary, done very well by alternating between character descriptions, case files, and description of the overall story arch.
March 23, 2022
Amazing book that gives more into the world of Fringe. Do NOT read this book if you plan to watch the show; it contains lots of spoilers. This should be viewed as a companion after the series has been watched. As not having watched the show in years, I loved reacclimating myself with the Fringe universe and now may have to watch the series again.
May 12, 2019
A great book for any Fringe fan! This book ties together many of the cases we know in a handy notebook style that offers insight and clarity on events or questions that fans of the show may have!
I highly recommend the book for new and existing members of the fandom.
I highly recommend the book for new and existing members of the fandom.
January 17, 2021
a beautifully well crafted account of the entire series, wonderfully shown from septembers perspective. A great collection of images and notes about the characters and every fringe case. A lovely companion piece for everyone who loves the show.
September 17, 2017
I love this show so much this book was so good, and it feels fitting to finish it in the month of September
April 18, 2019
This book lives up to the brilliance of the TV show!
I recommend it to all hardcore fans of the show!!!
I recommend it to all hardcore fans of the show!!!
December 9, 2019
Book had episode descriptions, several tipped-in items, and explanations of plot points to help clarify the plot lines of the show.
May 31, 2020
Absolutely gorgeous and amazing companion book to the perfect TV show. Highly recommend it to anyone who is a Fringe fan.
June 10, 2022
great take on a great show.
September 5, 2014
"A visually stunning fresh perspective on 'Fringe'"
FOX' 'Fringe' wrapped up a few months ago, with Walter Bishop (John Noble) managing to travel forward in time to stop the Observers from being sent back and end up invading at all. He sacrificed himself for a greater cause-- so his family could live a normal existence without worrying about saving the world all the time-- which meant he was ultimately erased from their lives, too. The audience who traveled along the show's five year journey with them would never forget Walter-- and never forget the Observers, either, without which there would have been no show. Or at least a very different show. So "September's Notebook," a coffee table style book full of photos, character profiles, case studies, and special goodies may just be the ultimate in memorabilia, and memories, for any Fringe fan.
"September's Notebook" is a manifest of sorts, a collection of notes that one very special Observer took as he watched the Fringe Team (in all universes) work. September's focus was on Walter, and the subtitle of this book is "The Bishop Paradox." Knowing what we know about Walter's fate in the series, this book feels that much more important and emotional because it is a testament to his character's struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices.
Rather than simply be a companion to the show, the idea of "September's Notebook" was actually integrated into a late episode, and it is a fresh perspective on stories you watched play out over seasons. Though it is written in the recording style of someone watching events unfold-- someone who isn't supposed to get involved, especially emotionally so, it is a bit strange to read about things you remember being so heartbreaking or beautiful in such clinical words. But in many ways, that kind of straight-forward storytelling, focusing on "this happened" without adding color or bias actually allows you to be transported back to the moment in your mind, to relive the scenes and feel everything all over again, not quite with fresh eyes but with a pure perspective. There are photos from episodes, but also photos you may have seen in episodes (such as family shots of Walter and Young Peter). As series executive producers J.H. Wyman and Jeff Pinkner said in the foreward, this book is a "living, breathing part of the show," and it belongs on every fan's shelf, right next to the series DVD box set.
Authors Tara Bennett and Paul Terry did an impeccable job working with Wyman and Pinkner, as well as the show's art department to create factually accurate re-tellings, but to also design a visually stunning look for each section. Images overlap, and in some cases, additional pages are taped on, to most accurately represent the ever-growing collection of data. A special middle section consists of replicated file folders, each one containing important paperwork (sometimes in additional envelopes marked "Classified") on the Fringe Events, separated out by season.
Now, I personally have been a sucker for notebook or scrapbook style stories ever since I picked up "Amelia's Notebook" in a Barnes and Noble when I was in third grade. I keep my own notebooks of writings, clippings, and observations, so the connection with this particular piece ran so much deeper than simply being an avid reviewer and reporter of the series. Being able to flip through the pages and marvel at the beautiful production (or behind-the-scenes) photos is one thing, but there are sketches and comic strips included, copies of various universe signage, flyers against the Oppression, "Heed/Obey/Serve" stickers, and even frameable copies of the Wanted poster and the Etta Resist poster. My personal favorite might just be the sketch of Peter and the Machine, on the back of which is a list of cocktails and their ingredients.
However, even the most detail-oriented Fringe fans may do a double take with some special parts of "September's Notebook." Since this book is from September's point of view, there are things revealed inside that the Fringe Team at the center of the FOX series wouldn't have known, including information about the other Observers and where their focuses and assignments were over the years.
If there is one thing lacking from "September's Notebook," though, it is the White Tulip. While the authors intentionally left it out, I kept flipping the pages, hoping to get to the end and find it tucked inside an envelope, after all. Unfortunately, that special message was left for Peter and Peter alone. I guess it makes sense, but I still missed its presence.
FOX' 'Fringe' wrapped up a few months ago, with Walter Bishop (John Noble) managing to travel forward in time to stop the Observers from being sent back and end up invading at all. He sacrificed himself for a greater cause-- so his family could live a normal existence without worrying about saving the world all the time-- which meant he was ultimately erased from their lives, too. The audience who traveled along the show's five year journey with them would never forget Walter-- and never forget the Observers, either, without which there would have been no show. Or at least a very different show. So "September's Notebook," a coffee table style book full of photos, character profiles, case studies, and special goodies may just be the ultimate in memorabilia, and memories, for any Fringe fan.
"September's Notebook" is a manifest of sorts, a collection of notes that one very special Observer took as he watched the Fringe Team (in all universes) work. September's focus was on Walter, and the subtitle of this book is "The Bishop Paradox." Knowing what we know about Walter's fate in the series, this book feels that much more important and emotional because it is a testament to his character's struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices.
Rather than simply be a companion to the show, the idea of "September's Notebook" was actually integrated into a late episode, and it is a fresh perspective on stories you watched play out over seasons. Though it is written in the recording style of someone watching events unfold-- someone who isn't supposed to get involved, especially emotionally so, it is a bit strange to read about things you remember being so heartbreaking or beautiful in such clinical words. But in many ways, that kind of straight-forward storytelling, focusing on "this happened" without adding color or bias actually allows you to be transported back to the moment in your mind, to relive the scenes and feel everything all over again, not quite with fresh eyes but with a pure perspective. There are photos from episodes, but also photos you may have seen in episodes (such as family shots of Walter and Young Peter). As series executive producers J.H. Wyman and Jeff Pinkner said in the foreward, this book is a "living, breathing part of the show," and it belongs on every fan's shelf, right next to the series DVD box set.
Authors Tara Bennett and Paul Terry did an impeccable job working with Wyman and Pinkner, as well as the show's art department to create factually accurate re-tellings, but to also design a visually stunning look for each section. Images overlap, and in some cases, additional pages are taped on, to most accurately represent the ever-growing collection of data. A special middle section consists of replicated file folders, each one containing important paperwork (sometimes in additional envelopes marked "Classified") on the Fringe Events, separated out by season.
Now, I personally have been a sucker for notebook or scrapbook style stories ever since I picked up "Amelia's Notebook" in a Barnes and Noble when I was in third grade. I keep my own notebooks of writings, clippings, and observations, so the connection with this particular piece ran so much deeper than simply being an avid reviewer and reporter of the series. Being able to flip through the pages and marvel at the beautiful production (or behind-the-scenes) photos is one thing, but there are sketches and comic strips included, copies of various universe signage, flyers against the Oppression, "Heed/Obey/Serve" stickers, and even frameable copies of the Wanted poster and the Etta Resist poster. My personal favorite might just be the sketch of Peter and the Machine, on the back of which is a list of cocktails and their ingredients.
However, even the most detail-oriented Fringe fans may do a double take with some special parts of "September's Notebook." Since this book is from September's point of view, there are things revealed inside that the Fringe Team at the center of the FOX series wouldn't have known, including information about the other Observers and where their focuses and assignments were over the years.
If there is one thing lacking from "September's Notebook," though, it is the White Tulip. While the authors intentionally left it out, I kept flipping the pages, hoping to get to the end and find it tucked inside an envelope, after all. Unfortunately, that special message was left for Peter and Peter alone. I guess it makes sense, but I still missed its presence.
July 8, 2019
I absolutely love this tv show. Everything about it is perfect.
The characters? Perfect. Plot? Perfect. Acting? Perfect. There is not a single thing wrong with it from start to finish.
That being said, this is the perfect companion book. You get photos and insights and things that weren't mentioned in the series. It's a beautiful book and I'm going to have to buy it at some point.
If you are a fan of the show, pick this up, you won't regret it!
The characters? Perfect. Plot? Perfect. Acting? Perfect. There is not a single thing wrong with it from start to finish.
That being said, this is the perfect companion book. You get photos and insights and things that weren't mentioned in the series. It's a beautiful book and I'm going to have to buy it at some point.
If you are a fan of the show, pick this up, you won't regret it!
December 8, 2015
A couple years ago, I was excited for this new show Fringe to air. LOST would soon be done, and I needed a new sci-fi show to watch. I loyally watched the entirety of the first season, but stopped after that when I realized it just wasn't the same as my previous favorite show. It was more episodic, and less serialized, and I was having a hard time connecting the episodes and seeing the show and its promise.
Time jump to present time. Now that Fringe was finally available for streaming online in its entirety, I decided to give the show another try. I never completely forgot about the show, promising myself that I would watch it when I had the time. Commercial free. At my own pace. And that is exactly what I did. As the story progressed and became more complex, sometimes a little bit too much that I really had to think hard about the plot points. By the time I finished watching the show, I still wanted to learn more. That's when I found out that September had written an account of the show.
Fringe: September's Notebook is a companion book. Just putting it out there. If you're looking for a book that will tell you more about the show, behind the scenes pictures, or even dangling plot threads, then this is not the book for you. Quite honestly, that's what I was hoping for too. Something like a biography, but for a tv show instead of a person. I would LOVE to read about why they couldn't get more scenes with William Bell in the show. Or what was the deal with the wonky cartoon episode with the mysterious Mr. X. Or what was the relationship between Fringe events and biblical verses. And my biggest gripe: what was the point of the first three seasons when that timeline was basically erased? Where's the closure for the viewer? Alas, those questions may never be answered for me. But I digress.
September's Notebook delivers what it promises. I read it knowing that it was simply a companion piece, something to add with my other favorite, the Lost Encyclopedia. It is the ultimate fan service for fans of Fringe, complete with special envelopes with extra posters and even loyalist face tattoos. There are detailed folders of each Fringe case separated by the distinct intro title colors of each timeline (Blue folder for Over Here cases, Red folder for Over There cases, and an amber colored folder for the alternate timeline cases). Likewise, you get a pretty good synopsis of the major characters from each of the four universes. Again, the book mentions specific plot details such as why there was an alternate timeline to begin with, but does not go into depth beyond what you can glean from the show itself.
Seriously, the only thing missing was a complete list of Astrid's nicknames given by Walter. That would have been the icing on the cake.
If you're looking for behind the scenes information, look somewhere else. But if you're looking for a true fan service book for Fringe, then pick this up today.
Time jump to present time. Now that Fringe was finally available for streaming online in its entirety, I decided to give the show another try. I never completely forgot about the show, promising myself that I would watch it when I had the time. Commercial free. At my own pace. And that is exactly what I did. As the story progressed and became more complex, sometimes a little bit too much that I really had to think hard about the plot points. By the time I finished watching the show, I still wanted to learn more. That's when I found out that September had written an account of the show.
Fringe: September's Notebook is a companion book. Just putting it out there. If you're looking for a book that will tell you more about the show, behind the scenes pictures, or even dangling plot threads, then this is not the book for you. Quite honestly, that's what I was hoping for too. Something like a biography, but for a tv show instead of a person. I would LOVE to read about why they couldn't get more scenes with William Bell in the show. Or what was the deal with the wonky cartoon episode with the mysterious Mr. X. Or what was the relationship between Fringe events and biblical verses. And my biggest gripe: what was the point of the first three seasons when that timeline was basically erased? Where's the closure for the viewer? Alas, those questions may never be answered for me. But I digress.
September's Notebook delivers what it promises. I read it knowing that it was simply a companion piece, something to add with my other favorite, the Lost Encyclopedia. It is the ultimate fan service for fans of Fringe, complete with special envelopes with extra posters and even loyalist face tattoos. There are detailed folders of each Fringe case separated by the distinct intro title colors of each timeline (Blue folder for Over Here cases, Red folder for Over There cases, and an amber colored folder for the alternate timeline cases). Likewise, you get a pretty good synopsis of the major characters from each of the four universes. Again, the book mentions specific plot details such as why there was an alternate timeline to begin with, but does not go into depth beyond what you can glean from the show itself.
Seriously, the only thing missing was a complete list of Astrid's nicknames given by Walter. That would have been the icing on the cake.
If you're looking for behind the scenes information, look somewhere else. But if you're looking for a true fan service book for Fringe, then pick this up today.
August 14, 2013
(
More pictures on my blog
)This is an incredible book for all fans of Fringe. I'm one, and I'm thrilled by it.
It's put together and presented in beautiful scrapbook style. Included are insets, removable items, posters. The book edges have navigation tabs coming out like those you case files you normally see on TV. Full marks for presentation.
In terms of content, this book is packed with an amazing amount of information and pictures.
The book covers in detail both the universes and the other timeline. You have Walter's history, stories about Peter's illness that leads to the crossing of the universe, Cortexiphan Trails, Massive Dynamic and their secret projects, Fringe division and all their agents and the cases they have worked on. That's just for the original universe.
In the later sections of the book, it looks at all the differences between the universes and timelines. So you have Walter(nate) and all the Fringe doubles from the alternate universe.
There's a lot to read. It's a good recap as the events are presented in more linear and hence clearer. You'll also get some insight because September's observations can be found in little blue notes all over the book. These are stuff you don't get from just watching the show, and there are many other nuggets of information.
The pictures are great, and there are loads of them. There are the strange symbols from the opening credits, photos of the past Observers caught on camera, characters, news articles, graphics from the other universe, props, the time machine, gory pictures from cases, and more!
It's a pretty comprehensive companion to the show.
Highly recommended.
All Fringe fans should have this book.
January 17, 2014
Could not ask for a better companion to the arguably best show ever on television and not arguably the most underrated by everyone but the fans. Perfectly illustrated and filled to the brim with fringe details from our friend Septembers POV was absolutely the best way to go about it. Especially sentimental to finish the day before the anniversary of Fringe's finale. September's Notebook helps to keep the Fringe legacy alive and with such great respect to the show and it's characters. Brilliantly well done.
January 7, 2014
I was highly anticipating this book, being a huge fan of the show Fringe, but it turned out to be a major disappointment. Yes there are plenty of photographs and drawings to pore over but the text seems just a detailed summary of the show with no real further explanation or answers to some unanswered questions. The extra paper props are a great addition but ultimately this is disappointing stuff.
August 4, 2013
Quite the cute and fun guide for FRINGE fans, as it breaks down the characters and episodes and other yummy world-building tidbits for the reader, but from September's POV. It encompasses the entire series, so not something to be read until you've caught up on the show. Bonus posters and whatnot are included as "classified documents," which is fun. :)
April 16, 2014
Really enjoyed this book - full of great photos, tidbits, inserts and insights. Love the way the individual seasons were set up as case folders. A surprisingly poignant final page. The only minor thing for me is the way the individual episodes were written up (as case files) is a bit confusing and lacking in detail and analysis. Other than that, this is a great book for any fan of Fringe.
August 17, 2016
So this isn't a traditional book-book, but is instead a tie-in for the TV show, Fringe. It's a collection of notes from one character's perspective, most of it recaps all the different cases of the show, character profiles, etc. Definitely a neat tie-in for the show, my only wish is that there was MORE information.
February 17, 2016
If you are a fan of Fringe then this is a must-have. Written from the viewpoint of the Observer known as September the book goes into information on the various characters, episode summaries, other information and loads and loads of photos.
It also has extras like pull-up pieces of paper, files in envelopes, etc. Fascinating throughout.
It also has extras like pull-up pieces of paper, files in envelopes, etc. Fascinating throughout.
August 26, 2016
Had this a long time -- pre-ordered from Amazon and just paged through it then.
All these months later...it's great fun to go through and read the entries and just be swept back up into the world of Fringe.
Lovely reminder of a great show.
I miss you Fringe!!
All these months later...it's great fun to go through and read the entries and just be swept back up into the world of Fringe.
Lovely reminder of a great show.
I miss you Fringe!!
September 18, 2015
Amazing book, a must read for all the fans of the show! It's a way to relive the story in a very unique way, through September's eyes. The bonus material found between the pages make the experience even more delightful. It's a gem, trust me.
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