Tag Archives: fanzines

Episode 222 – Bantha Tracks and the Birth of the Star Wars Fan Club

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This week we are taking a look at the long and fascinating history of the original Star Wars Fan Club and the newsletter that was the source for all Star Wars information, Bantha Tracks.  From Celebration to The Star Wars Show, Bantha Tracks set the standard for what it means to be a Star Wars fan.  How did it relate to the zine fandom culture of time?  Who is Maureen Garett and why is she so important to Star Wars fan history?  What was the story of the sequel trilogy in 1980?  And just WHO is Professor Tumbleseed?  Listen today and celebrate the love!  

Sources : 

Retracing Bantha Tracks by Kevin Fitzpatrick, Star Wars Insider 41

Following the Bantha Tracks by Chris Fawcett, Star Wars Insider 59

The Making of Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi books by JW Rinzler

Amazing Star Wars Zine by Kara DJ:

https://www.instagram.com/sacredsomethingbykara/

Bantha Tracks Archive at Jedi Temple Archives

https://www.jeditemplearchives.com/specialreports/banthatracks/

Episode 174 – Star Wars Fanzines And The Secret Dawn Of SW Fandom

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Long before there were Star Wars podcasts, there were Star Wars fanzines. Thousands and thousands of Star Wars fanzines.  These fanzines helped unite and create a Star Wars fandom and everything that comes with it.  Join us as we explore the surprising history of this fan created, woman driven dawn of Star Wars fan culture!  What were some of the first ones?  What was in them?   What did Lucasfilm think of them?  What were the fan theories for Revenge of the Jedi that were driving fandom insane? Where are many of these zines kept today? Join us for a fascinating look at a little known yet vital piece of Star Wars fan history!  So warm up the blue ink in the Ditto machine & celebrate the love with BLAST POINTS!


LOOKING FOR LEIA: https://www.lookingforleia.com

University of Iowa Library Special Collections: https://www.lib.uiowa.edu/sc/

List of OT Star Wars zines: https://fanlore.org/wiki/List_of_Original_Trilogy_Star_Wars_Zines