R.I.P. John D. Squires (1948-2012)

John D. Squires at Pulpfest 2010*

I'm very saddened to note here the passing of the eminent Shielian, John D. Squires, on 2 November 2012, at the age of sixty-four.  He had been in ill-health for several years.  Our condolences go out to his daughter and other family members, and to his many friends.  John was one of the world authorities on the life and writings of M.P. Shiel, among his many other interests. Professionally he practiced law, having received his advanced degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, after his undergraduate degree from Harvard University. A number of John's essays related to M.P. Shiel can be found online here (scroll down, where they can be found in a special section). A memorial service will be held in Greensboro, North Carolina.

*Photo from Morgan Holmes's report of Pulpfest 2010.

The Realm of Redonda--Facts and Legends

John D. Squires has posted an especially interesting essay on the history of the kingdom of Redonda, from its Sheilian sources on to the various modern day claimants.  The full title is "Of Dreams and Shadows: An Outline of the Redonda Legend with Some Notes on Various Claimants to its Uncertain Throne", and it's posted here.  

An extensive ancillary piece, "The Redonda Legend: A Chronological Bibliography" appears here.