James Finn Garner at C2E2 2020

I first met Chicago-based author James Finn Garner at C2E2 about 12 years ago. Unfortunately, I haven't seen him in a few years, but I still follow him online and enjoy his books.

At Comic Cons, in Artist Alley filled with creative folks, he stood out with his garb. Hs look was inspired by Rex Koko, one of his characters. Koko was the main character in several books written as clown noir. It is such a unique concept. I was immediately hooked and have all the books in the series.

James has written other books, too. I enjoy all of his writing, but clearly the Rex Koko series is my favorite.

I have done several fun interview with James. Our last interview was actually done with my pal Joey Roth handling the interviewing. That interview is at On the Beat with James Finn Garner.

I have a few other interviews with James on my YouTube channel. You can also get more info at jamesfinngarner.com.

James Finn Garner and me in Chicago, IL-March 2020.

James Finn Garner at Wizard World Chicago 2017

While I haven't seen James Finn Garner recently, he is always one of my favorites at any comic con. I have interviewed him many times at Wizard World. All of my Wizard World interviews can be found on the Johngy's Beat Wizard World playlist on YouTube.

You might ask why a best-selling author is dressed like a clown. That could be part o the comic con experience, but in this case, James is drawing attention to Rex Koko, one of the great characters he created. The Rex Koko series is clown noir, which in itself is also a unique concept. I was sold as soon as I heard about it, but delving into the books, I fell in love with the stories and character.

James has a bunch of other books, too. He even has nonfiction books. Several of his works are on my bookshelf.

Wizard World was purchased by Fan Expo. There are a few changes, but it is still a fantastic event. The next Fan Expo is in Philadelphia June 2-4.

For more info on Jim, check out JamesFinnGarner.com. Also, go to FanExpoHQ.com for news and schedules for events all year.

James Finn Garner and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Friend Encounters: James Finn Garner and Joey Roth at C2E2 2020

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

Last year, I was "On the Beat" as always at C2E2, but I tried something new. For creators I have previously interviewed multiple times, I asked entertainer extraordinaire Joey Roth to handle the interviewing duties.

Joey brought a new perspective and the result was really fun. I am happy to report, Joey has confirmed he will repeat his role at C2E2 2021.

Author James Finn Garner was one of Joey's interview subjects. That interview can be found at On the Beat With James Finn Garner at C2E2 2020.

James is a New York Times best-selling author of many books. I enjoyed all of his books, but his Rex Koko series is my favorite. The Rex Koko series is a set of clown noir mysteries. It is such a funny and original concept. I fell in love with it from first glance and have been on board with each new novel. Joey and James discussed that and more.

You'll notice Joey is holding a title belt. It's not a fake. Joey is the current IPW Chicagoland champ, a title he has held for 800+ days. He's also a manager, an actor a podcaster and more. I was very happy to land him for my interview role and I look forward to more fun.

Go to JamesFinnGarner.com for more info on James and Rex Koko. Also, check C2E2.com for all the info on the event running December 10-12. Look for Joey all over he wrestling and entertainment scene and look for us both at C2E2, where we will get more fun interviews..

James Finn Garner and Joey Roth in Chicago, IL-March 2020.

On the Beat With James Finn Garner at C2E2 2020

My coverage of C2E2 for Patch.com started yesterday with an interview featuring artist Ali Cantarella. Today, my coverage continues with Johngy's Beat Special Contributor (and the IPW Chicagoland champ) Joey Roth's interview with best-selling author James Finn Garner.

Detroit native and University of Michigan grad, James moved to Chicago many years ago. While he won a Hopwood Award for one of his short plays in college, James really developed and honed his writing skills in Chicago.

James performed some improv comedy and wrote Politically Correct Bedtime Stories, his first book. His debut book has sold more than 2.5 million copies in the United States. It spent 65 weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list. He has written several other books, including the Rex Koko, Private Clown series.

James talks more about the Rex Koko series in the interview below, but in short, it is three (so far) clown noir mysteries. It truly is unlike anything I have ever read. The three books, Honk Honk My Darling, Double Indignity and The Wet Nose of Danger, reside on my bookshelf at home and I have reread each a few times.

At a convention like C2E2, it is easy for the creative folks in Artist Alley to get lost in the shuffle, but James always stands out. Attired in full Rex Koko clown gear, James is an attraction all by himself. The clown costume might draw people to his booth, but it is his wit that sells his books. I have interviewed many authors and I certainly could not afford to buy everyone's books, but I make the exceptions for the best and the Rex Koko series is the best of the best.

Thank you to James for his time, consideration and friendship. Thanks to Joey for his excellent mic work. Thanks to C2E2 for the hospitality.

Check out all of the info on JFG at JamesFinnGarner.com. To learn more about Rex Koko and his world, go to RexKoko.com. Stay up on the latest news from C2E2 at C2E2.com. Lastly, check out Joey on social media.

Paul Erickson and James Finn Garner at Wizard World Chicago 2017

Authors Paul Erickson and James Finn Garner have appeared here many times. They are two friends I have made from the comic con circuit.

Paul is a nerd parodist, specifically "The world's leading" nerd parodist. While he jokes about the title, I really can't argue with it. His books have parodied Lord of the Rings and Star Wars and despite the fact I am not a huge fan of either, I really enjoy his work. Being a fan of either probably helps, but his humor comes through either way.

James is a New York Times best-selling author. Lately, he has been working on his graphic novel series featuring clown detective Rex Koko. Clown noir might be a term invented by James, but he has perfected the art.

These two go together, because they are together a lot. Long-time friends and comic con booth partners, they are a double threat and double treat. I originally met them separately and then learned of their connection. Now, a comic con isn't a comic con, until I hang out a bit at their booth, although I still won't try those circus peanuts.

You can check out the interviews at HeroTV 2019 Episode 2: Paul Erickson and HeroTV Episode 3: James Finn Garner. Go to NerdParodist.com for info on Paul and JamesFinnGarner.com for info on James.

Go to WizardWorld.com to check out all of the Wizard World cons across the country al year. I don't know yet if Paul and James will be at WW Chicago, but I hope to see them there.

Paul Erickson, James Finn Garner and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Friendly Encounters: James Finn Garner and Paul Erickson

Friendly Encounters is a weekly series which features friends of mine who have met celebrities.

Today, I feature two celebrity friends, who were friends with each other before I became friends with both of them.  If that's not confusing enough, look at the way they are dressed.

I'll start with the hobo on the left.  That's James Finn Garner, well respected author.  He's actually in Rex Koko Private Clown attire.  Rex Koko is the title character in a clown noir book series.  It is original, humorous and very entertaining.  He has also written books without Rex Koko, but with the same wit and wisdom.

When I first heard about his clown noir, I was greatly intrigued by the originality and possibility.  I am happy to report that James has far surpassed my hopes.  Rex Koko is brilliant!

The other person is only dressed like a hobbit, but is in fact "The World's Greatest Nerd Parodist" Paul Erickson.  He has written Tolkien and Star Wars parodies.  

The best example of how good his books are is that Jason Fleigel, a huge Star Wars fan, and my nephew Matt, a Tolkien fan, love Paul's parodies and I, at best a casual fan of both, love his books.  His humor has universal appeal.

They might seem like an odd paring at conventions, but it works.  They are very good friends and have fun together.  That sort of feeling creates a lively and inviting atmosphere at their booth.

Go to JamesFinnGarner.com to learn more about JFG and to order his books.  Check out NerdParodist.com for all of the news and info on my favorite nerd parodist.  Of course, you can also check out their booth at several comic cons each year, including C2E2 in a few weeks.  Check C2E2.com for all of the info, including where you can find these two talented guys.

James Finn Garner and Paul Erickson in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

James Finn Garner at Wizard World Chicago 2015

Sometimes it is just random luck which leads to friendships and good memories.  Such has been my experience with Chicago-based author James Finn Garner.

At C2E2 several years ago, we interviewed JFG because his Rex Koko book intrigued me.  I had never seen any clown noir prior.  I have since learned there is more clown noir out there, but I will maintain that JFG puts out the best.

Since then, I have met him many times at various conventions.  He is usually with fellow Chicagoan Paul Erickson (the World's Foremost Nerd Parodist).  Together they are pure gold.

JFG is usually dressed in full Rex Koko garb (and he has a large bowl of circus peanuts to complete the effect).  I have often told him that in a convention full of colorful characters, he always stands out.  I always look forward to reconnecting with JFG (and Paul, for that matter).

You can follow James Finn Garner on twitter to get all of his musings.  You can also check out Bardball.com, to get more updates on Rex Koko and his other projects.  If you're in the Chicago area this weekend, check out JFG and lots of other great creative folks at Wizard World.

There is a lot more to this man than a ragged raincoat!  I'm not just promoting a pal either.  I have the entire Rex Koko series and I look forward to more Rex Koko adventures.

James Finn Garner and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2015.

James Finn Garner at C2E2 2016

I knew James Finn Garner was a legit best selling author, but I did not realize just how successful he has been.  At Wizard World Chicago 2016, I learned of his tours on the talk show circuit.  Aside from his satirical fiction, I'd love to see him write a book about celebrity encounters.

JFG has written the Politically Correct Trilogy, that being two "Bed Time Stories" books and one "Holiday Stories" book.  I have only read excerpts thus far, but I find them hilarious and I plan on pcking up the books at the next con (yes, start my tab, JFG).

What originally caught my eye was his Rex Koko series.  Clown Noir seemed like such a unique concept.  He describes it as "the award-winning series, where "Freaks" meets "The Maltese Falcon."  That's pretty funny and pretty accurate.  These books I own and I absolutely love and recommend.

JFG can usually be found in full Rex Koko garb at comic cons.  He usually shares booth space with friend and Parodist Paul Erickson (tomorrow's feature here).  Stop by his booth anytime for some good laughs.  Also check out JamesFinnGarner.com for all info and updates.

James Finn Garner and me in Chicago, IL-March 2016.

Jar Jar Wars Starring Johngy as CU L8R

I always look forward to seeing James Finn Garner and Paul Erickson at Wizard World.  Over the years, I have interviewed each and have become friends with them.  They are two of the most entertaining people I have ever met (and these comic cons are full of entertaining people).

At the Chicago Wizard World, Paul was talking about "Jar Jar Wars," his newest parody.  He asked me if I would have any interest in playing a small part in a panel event later in the convention.  Would I have any interest?  Oh heck yes!  Not only does my massive ego demand I participate, but my quest for fun was tickled.

"Jar Jar Wars" is Paul's attempt to help George Lucas make that Star Wars thing a bit more successful.  Actually, I will let Paul explain, "At this event we will review two ways George Lucas (writer-director of the films "THX 1138" and "American Graffiti") could finally get the recognition he deserves for an obscure science fiction/fantasy film he made in 1977. First, he could fix the weak science (Sound in space? The Kessel Run in twelve parsecs?) and strange plot elements (No medal for Chewbacca?). Second, he could make it easier for us to identify with the weird characters (A wizard, a sasquatch, and a guy in a black diving helmet?)."

Paul showed me my lines and I committed them to memory.  I was determined to nail this part (and hopefully set myself up for future roles in Paul's "productions").

As I sat on stage, I saw the room fill with people.  There had to be about 250 people or so in attendance.  I was surrounded by real talent, too.  Could I possibly hold my own amongst this assemblage?

The moment came for my part and I started off well, but flubbed it a bit, before recovering and finishing strong.  I maintain that I was prepared, but I got thrown off my game (I have game?) by the humor all around.  I was literally cracking up through the entire segment.

In all seriousness, I was tickled to be a part of this.  Years ago, when I met these guys, I never figured I would become part of this.  This is testament to what good guys they are and also to what can happen and develop from these conventions.  Thank you Paul for a fun experience.

I strongly encourage everyone to check out Jar Jars Wars on Facebook.  You'll get info and updates there.  You might want to save yourself the trouble and just buy the book already!  You will want it once you get hooked.

This piece was mostly about Paul and "Jar Jar Wars," but the man to my left has a cool book series centered on Rex Koko, private clown.  While clown noir might be a strange concept, it is even stranger in reality and it is awesome!  I have all three of his books and I highly recommend you check out JamesFinnGarner.com to learn all about him, too.

The Nerd Readers Theatre Ensemble in Rosemont, IL-August 2015.

On the Beat With James Finn Garner at C2E2 2015

We first met author James Finn Garner at C2E2 and we continue to catch up with him every chance we get.  At the recent C2E2, we met again.

James is the creative genius behind the Rex Koko clown noir series.  As I have written previously, I was immediately hooked by the concept of clown noir, but one I got my hands on the actual books, I became a solid Koko supporter.

The Rex Koko books are beautifully illustrated and fantastically written.  They are full of colorful clown characters and others equally as interesting.  These books are many shades of awesome!

I love interviews like this.  I have a lot of fun with James and I truly love his work.  Obviously, we both take his work seriously, but James is not shy about having fun with the whole thing.  Just seeing how he dresses at these conventions would tell you his general mindset.

After you watch the interview below, head over to JamesFinnGarner.com to learn more about him, Rex Koko and all of his other work.  I am sure you will love his work as much as I do..

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On the Beat with James Finn Garner and Paul Erickson at Wizard World 2014

I first met James Finn Garner and Paul Erickson separately last year.  Both did interviews with JohngysBeat.com and I have followed them since.  A few weeks ago, Erickson told me he would be at Wizard World in Rosemont and that he would be sharing a booth with Garner.  I was excited about revisiting each.

I don't usually like to interview two people together, especially when they are not totally connected professionally.  After talking informally to both, we all decided it would make sense and be fun to do this twofer.

Jame Finn Garner is a New York Times best-selling author.  His clown noir book series featuring Rex Koko fascinated me.  I am not just giving lip-service either.  I bought the first two books in the series from Garner and I can't wait to dive into them.

Erickson is the best Tolkien parodist.  His passion (and humor) is evident as he is usually in costume at these conventions.  My nephew Matt bought his books last year and this time, I purchased the first book, The Wobbit A Parody (of Tolkien's The Hobbit).

I had a blast seeing and talking to these guys again.  I encourage everyone to check out their works after you watch the interview below.

This is one of the cool things about the comic con circuit.  I get to reconnect with people like Garner and Erickson.  Each time we get to know each other a little better (that's a scary thought for them).

I appreciate Wizard World granting me the opportunity and I thank Garner and Erickson for their time and consideration.  Check them out.  They are really interesting guys!

I Dig Rex Koko

James Finn Garner is a Chicago-based writer and satirist.  JohngysBeat.com's Scott Beatty had the pleasure of interviewing him at C2E2 last year.  Our interview with him can be found at On the Beat with James Finn Garner.

Garner has a lengthy body of excellent work, but I fear I might be fixated on one particular project.  Honk Honk, My Darling: A Rex Koko, Private Clown Mystery has been best described as "clown noir."

Clown noir?  Oh yeah, I was hooked immediately.

I have a feeling that no matter what JFG does for the rest of his career, I will be the guy coming up to him asking about Rex Koko.  I know a secret gem when I see one.

I am usually that guy who asks the celebs about lesser-known or underrated projects.  I am not trying to be the cool guy.  I just like what I like.

I happen to like Rex Koko a lot.  It is such an interesting concept and it has been executed very well.  I think there will be a long line of Rex Koko mysteries.

On second thought, maybe I won't be "the" guy.  I see lots of people asking JFG about Rex Koko.

James Finn Garner and me in Chicago, IL-March 2013.

On the Beat with James Finn Garner at C2E2 2013

James Finn Garner is a Chicago-based author, whose first book Politically Correct Bedtime Stories spent 65 weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers list.  He has since written several more books, including his latest, Honk Honk, My Darling: A Rex Koko, Private Clown Mystery, a clown noir.
Clown Noir?  Oh, I am all over that.
JohngysBeat.com's Scott Beatty took the lead in this interview with Garner.  They discussed Garner's career, his future projects and Rex Koko, of course.  The whole time, while I was fascinated by Garner, I kept thinking I could hardly wait to dive into Rex Koko.
Clown Noir?
How positively cool and intriguing.  I am thinking it would take a talented author to pull off such a thing.  The reviews I have read call it "ridiculous and real" and "unbelievably believable."  I really can't wait to add my thoughts to those reviews.  Just when I think I have seen all genres of books, out pops Garner and Clown Noir.
I really appreciate Garner giving us his time.  It was a real pleasure talking to him during and after the interview.
After you watch our interview, please check out JamesFinnGarner.com.  Also, be sure to check out the James Finn Garner Facebook page as well as following James Finn Garner on twitter.