Start Trek actors are a talented bunch, and not only in front of the cameras. Many of them, such as Patrick Stewart and Scott Bakula, have performed in theater productions.
Others have a flair for writing, and a few actors in the franchise have taken their own characters in hand to create original Star Trek adventures, with a bit of support from other authors. If you're a fan of Star Trek books, take a look at these 3 selections from some of the franchise's most beloved actors.
The 34th Rule, by Armin Shimerman and David R. George III
I picked this book up online because Quark is my favorite Star Trek: Deep Space Nine character. I expected a lot of humor and Quark-style schemes, but what I got was an incredible story that touches on some of America's darkest times.
Rule 34 is one of the Ferengi Rules of Acquisition, as the entire Ferenginar culture is based on making a profit. This rule states, "War is good for business," but in this tale, Quark and his brother Rom discover quite the opposite when they get caught up in life-threatening imprisonment over a Bajoran orb, which the Ferengi Grand Nagus wants to sell but has refused the Bajorans a bid. The angry Bajoran government then forbids all Ferengi inside their space, leading to Quark and Rom's detainment in a prison camp.
According to Eric A. Stillwell, Star Trek writer and producer, The 34th Rule was inspired by George Takei, who often discussed his time in internment camps as a child at speeches and conventions. It's disturbing, but that's likely the point.
I, Q by John de Lancie and Peter David
Ask any fan of Star Trek: The Next Generation who their favorite character is, and a good many of them will probably reply with one letter: Q! Played by the unique and delightful Jon de Lancie, this omnipotent pest is a fan favorite. In 1999, he and the late, great Star Trek writer Peter David teamed up to pen I, Q.
As someone who's enjoyed Peter David's novels over the years, I knew this one wouldn't disappoint! I could hear de Lancie's Q as I read, and the plot, where Picard and his crew must team up with Q to stop an all-consuming energy from eating the galaxy and everything in it, feels every bit an authentic Star Trek adventure.
I Am Spock, by Leonard Nimoy
In 1975, Nimoy published a book called I Am Not Spock, where he clearly tried to distance himself from the character of Spock. Star Trek was well into syndication by then, drawing in viewers who then became adoring fans. Unfortunately, many felt let down and even a bit bewildered by Nimoy's apparent disdain for the Spock character.
That's why I Am Spock, published in 1995, feels like such a balm to those who not only appreciate Spock but relate to him as well. He discusses behind-the-scenes action in not only the original series films, but the original series as well. It's satisfying to know that Leonard Nimoy made peace with Spock and with himself before departing this world.
If you'd like to check these books out for yourself, you can find copies on eBay and other online booksellers. Audio copies are also available. Happy reading, my fellow book lovers!