ABOUT

Speculative Fiction encompasses diverse genres unified by the concept and process of immersion. Through world-building techniques (and good storytelling), readers become immersed in places, people, perceptions, philosophies, and probabilities bound only by the limits of an author’s imagination. From fantasy, science fiction, science fantasy, urban fantasy, and supernatural, to superhero, horror, utopian, dystopian, apocalyptic, post-apocalyptic, alternate reality, and alternate history, speculative fiction balances fantastic genres with literary craft. 

Indeed, speculative fiction authors have created timeless stories (from Frankenstein, Dracula, The Chronicles of Narnia, and The Lord of the Rings, to 1984, The Handmaid’s Tale, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and The Hunger Games) that continue to inspire generations of readers and writers, while remaining relevant in their social commentary. 

Thus, as a journal of speculative fiction and poetry, Immersions Journal offers speculative authors a place to share their stories—their immersions—with readers who enjoy being transported to the infinite possibilities of creative speculation. 

Immersions Journal is primarily an online journal. However, print options will be offered through themed Anthologies (check back for updates). Regardless of medium, Immersions Journal seeks well-crafted, emotionally-moving speculative fiction and poetry that transports readers to a captivating secondary world.

Edwardo Pérez, Founder, Editor, and Publisher of Immersions Journal

Bio

In his youth, perhaps as a result of watching too much science fiction and fantasy (because cable TV was all society had in the time before the internet), Edwardo was certain he hailed from a mythical planet (like Luke Skywalker, Spock, E.T. and Mork), endowing him with abilities mere humans (parents and teachers) couldn't understand. While adolescence ended, Edwardo's love of speculative fiction remained (so did the superpowers, along with a boundless imagination).

After lifetimes spent in marching bands, orchestral pits, jazz ensembles, nightclubs, and newsrooms (because that's what happens when you earn degrees in music and journalism), Edwardo found himself teaching English (because that's what happens when you go back to school), crafting speculative fiction and poetry, and contributing essays and blogs on popular culture and philosophy (putting all that TV/film watching to good use).

While he's hopeful he might eventually find the mythical planet of his likely origin (or at least a magical portal leading to another realm), Edwardo continues to learn and grow as a human, contemplating the myriad “what if’s” of existence, and marveling at the wonders of life his wife and children constantly reveal.

Vitae

Husband, Father, Writer, Composer, Conductor, and Performer (trumpet, trombone, bass trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion, piano, and jazz voice). 

Doctor of Philosophy in English—The University of Texas at Arlington, 2012

Master of Journalism—The University of North Texas, 2002

Master of Music—The University of Denver, 1996

Bachelor of Music Education—Baylor University, 1993

Co-Editor, Black Panther and Philosophy, Blackwell/Wiley

Contributor to Wiley-Blackwell Popular Culture and Philosophy Series—volumes on the Witcher, Mad Max, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Dune, Disney, SNL, Black Mirror, 1984, and Doctor Strange.

Contributor to Wiley-Blackwell andphilosophy.com website—numerous blogs on popular culture.

Contributor to Open Court Popular Culture and Philosophy Series—volumes on Avengers Endgame and The Handmaid’s Tale.

Contributor to Lexington Books and Fortress Academic Theology, Religion, and Pop Culture Series—volume on James Bond.

Contributor to Remapping Wonderland anthology published by Alternating Current.

Contributor to Guardians of Time anthology and Explorer One anthology published by Zimbell House.

Founder, Absolute Jazz Combo

Founder, Liquid Brass Quartet