Fandoms

What small press zines tell us about the future of fan communities and grassroots criticism

I remember the first zine I held in my hands — a photocopied, stapled booklet about a cult sci‑fi show, its margins scribbled with fan notes and a foldout map drawn by someone who clearly loved...

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How creators can turn hostile comment sections into productive fan engagement and loyalty

I’ve been moderating, reading, and sometimes agonizing over comment sections for as long as I’ve been covering fandom culture. Over the years I’ve watched heated debates blossom into...

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How to spot authentic fan art commissions and avoid scammers on social platforms

I get a lot of DMs and emails from readers asking how to tell whether a commission offer on social platforms is legitimate or a scam. As someone who’s spent years in fandoms, commissioning artists,...

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What a first-time cosplayer really needs to know before spending money on a convention outfit

I remember the first time I stood in the dealer hall at a con and felt that sudden, delicious pull: I wanted to be part of this — not just spectate, but become a character I loved. I also remember...

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