Howdy, readers!

I hope you’re comfortable, because this update is going to be a bit on the hefty side. But in a good way, I assure you!

Today marks the official 3^rd anniversary of the GODZILLA NOVELIZAION PROJECT, and I’ll be honest, it’s kind of crazy to think that I’ve been as this for that long. Three years isn’t really that long in the grand scheme of things, but when I look back on how much has happened since I first launched the project in 2018, it kind of blows my mind.

Since then, this project has evolved from a simple idea in my head into a full-blown community of readers and fans. If you had told me three years ago that I’d be asked “when’s your next chapter coming out?” or “would you be interested in being interviewed for my podcast?” I wouldn’t have believed it. On a similar note, any suggestion that I’d have a growing army of money-donating patrons, over 2,300 Twitter followers, and an opinion/perspective that my fellow kaiju fans were actively interested in hearing would’ve been dismissed as wishful thinking.

And yet, amazingly, here we are.

I’ve said it many times before, and I’m about to say it again: the amount of love and support I’ve gotten from fans like you since launching the GNP has been nothing short of remarkable. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all for continuing to read along and being awesome fans.

Anyway, enough of the mushy stuff for now.  As per tradition, it’s once again time to bring you the latest installment of the GNP’s patented (and long winded) STATUS REPORT! This bi-annual deep-dive into the status of every ongoing aspect of the project has been an important part of keeping all of you informed and in the loop, and a great way for me to take stock and look at the progress that’s been made. I’ll do my best to keep this status report brief, especially because I’d like to dedicate a solid chunk of this update to looking ahead to the future. There are some amazing things coming down the line in the coming months, and I can’t wait to share all of it with you!

But before we get to that, let’s break down the current status of every book, short story, timeline, and more. Like I said before, make sure you’re comfy!

THE NOVELIZATIONS

GODZILLA: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

Not much to say here, except to reiterate that crafting Chapter 3 has been a bit of a creative challenge! I’ve discussed it elsewhere, but in short, the next few chapters of this particular novelization will be unique challenges that I’ve been slowly tackling over the months. Due to currently focusing on other novelizations, work on this particular adaptation has been slow. However, this is a book that I get asked about frequently, with many readers telling me that this is their favorite adaptation on the site. So if you’ve been waiting patiently for Godzilla: Chapter 3, don’t worry… it’s coming!

KING KONG VS. GODZILLA: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

As I said in the last status report, the adaptation of this film (which is based on the legendary original Japanese cut of the film, unavailable in the United States until recently) has been a unique and exciting opportunity for the GNP.  To be able to present Honda and Sekizawa’s original, hilariously satirical vision to western readers is truly an honor, and it’s something I’m definitely taking my time on.

Only Chapter 1 has been completed and posted thus far, and my continuing research into the period (specifically the Japanese “Economic Miracle” and its effects on television, advertising, and big business) has prevented me from converting my outlines into further chapters. However, this remains another popular adaptation on the site (despite consisting of a single chapter!), so once I feel satisfied with the research, work on the next chapter can continue.

MOTHRA VS. GODZILLA: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

As mentioned last time, this is another novelization that requires a surprising amount of research.  How did politics on a local level work in 1964?  What does the Kurata Beach disaster communicate in regard to the modernization, industrialization, and urban expansion of Japan during such a prosperous decade?  How big a role did the press play at the time, and just what was the price of a chicken egg back then?  Lots to discover, and lots to learn!

All that said, the next chapter (and the next “in universe” newspaper article penned by Akira Takarada’s character, Ichiro Sakai) has been outlined and given a fair amount of research. The next part of the story will begin with the Sakai article, and then move into the examination of the “monster egg” by our heroes… and one very smarmy villain. Stay tuned!

ALL MONSTERS ATTACK: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

Two chapters in, and this adaptation remains a joy to write. The most recent chapter was received very well, and work on the next one is on-again, off-again. Research into the tumultuous era that produced this unique story is ongoing, and putting this oft-derided film into its proper historical context remains a massively important part of this adaptation. I’m not sure when the next chapter is coming, but I hope it’s soon!

GODZILLA VS. HEDORAH: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

I’ll have a bit more to say about this particular novelization’s development in the coming months, but as of this update, it remains the longest novel on the site, currently sitting at six chapters (including the prologue!) The chance to take a film so infamous for is visuals and translate it into the written word is a thrill, and often times a serious challenge. But I’ve been enjoying it immensely, as is evidenced by how much work has been done on the book! In fact, the next chapter has already been partially written, and more have been planned and outlined. I’ve got big plans for this book, and I’ll be sharing those plans soon, so stay tuned!

GODZILLA VS. GIGAN: THE UNIFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

Talk about a fun novelization to write! I’ve always loved the characters in this film, and having the opportunity to explore them deeper is a true thrill. That fun has been reflected in this novel’s progress; at four chapters and counting, Gigan is now the second longest book on the website! Readers have really been enjoying this one, and I’m happy to announce that the next chapter is being written as we speak.

GODZILLA VS. MEGALON: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

This is another book I’ve put on the back burner over the last few months. While readers were enjoying it, I hit a few snags and decided my creative energies were best directed elsewhere. That said, Chapter 2 is still being converted from an outline/notes to actual chapter. I’m not sure when to expect this one, but rest assured, it’s coming!

GODZILLA VS. MECHAGODZILLA: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

Unfortunately, the status on this book remains the same as the last time progress was shared a few months ago.  Much like Mothra vs. Godzilla, a surprising amount of research is required to make this novel authentic.  Specifically, knowledge of the history of Okinawa, it’s past and then (1974) current relationship to Japan, and its unique religious background are all necessary in presenting an accurate portrayal of the setting of the story.

The good news is that research into these topics is going well, if slowly.  Once I have acquired the necessary knowledge to accurately portray the setting of the film, then work on the next chapter will resume.  Hopefully it doesn’t take too much longer!

GODZILLA VS. SPACEGODZILLA: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

This is the most recent novel started on the site, and as of this writing, it is planned to be the last for some time. As mentioned elsewhere, the focus of the project is now squarely on crafting new chapters for already started books. The entire idea behind having multiple adaptations being worked on at the same time was to give the site some variety during its early days, and after two-and-a-half years, I felt that the variety I was looking for was finally in place.

That said, the adaptation of Spacegodzilla has been wonderful to work on, as it’s always been a personal favorite film of mine in the franchise, as well as a film that I feel is far better than its reputation. Chapter 2 is making progress, and I’m hoping to have it ready to publish sometime before summer.

GMK: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

Without getting too much into the story here, this is a particularly special adaptation for the GNP. This book was a special request from a wonderful Godzilla fan named Josh, a young man whose bravery in the face of life-altering health issues continues to humble me. Nearly two years after #GodzillaforJosh started trending on social media, I couldn’t be more thrilled that Josh is thriving and remains both loved and supported by Godzilla fans far and wide.

First and foremost, this book is for him. The next chapter will be coming before too long, and I can’t wait for both Josh and all of you to read it.

GODZILLA AGAINST MECHAGODZILLA: THE UNOFFICIAL NOVELIZATION

As mentioned elsewhere, this story is a unique one for the project as it is being told from MULTIPLE perspectives, including jumping between first-person accounts of the film’s events (such as the Prologue taking Akane’s perspective) and traditional third-person chapters. The final result should make for an interesting (and hopefully coherent) read that continues to be an exciting challenge to write! The next chapter will assume a new perspective as the events following Godzilla’s initial nighttime attack are seen through the eyes of the government, specifically Kumi Mizuno and Akira Nakao’s characters.

THE SHORT STORIES

CASEFILE: “MATANGO”

This one – no pun intended – has been an interesting case. The story – told as an “in-universe” testimony delivered by the film’s sole survivor upon his rescue – currently consists of five parts, plus an introduction. After dedicating a lot of time to writing what I estimate to be half the story (meaning that you can expect it to clock in at ten parts once it’s done), extenuating circumstances in my life caused me to stop for a while, and when work on the GNP resumed, I began working on another adaptation instead. With much of my focus on other books at the moment, this is one of the stories I haven’t touched in a hot minute. Rest assured, however, that Part 6 has been fully outlined, and half written, so this tale of madness and mushrooms should be continuing soon…

THE TIMELINES

Ever since launching the Timeline section of the site, I have been absolutely blown away by the amount of attention it has gotten. Even on days when the novelizations receive little web traffic, all of the timelines get an often shocking number of views. It’s been humbling to see that all the hard work that goes into researching, cataloguing, and writing the (sometimes obscure) facts in these timelines is being appreciated and enjoyed by fans!

Work on the timelines has slowed in recent months due to focus on other projects, but work is still being done behind the scenes on research for future updates. Look for events from several drafts of the shooting script for the 1998 film (which has led to some interesting discoveries!), several publications released to promote the film, both the adult and junior novelizations, episodes of the animated series, two Godzilla: The Series comics, and even the GameBoy game coming to the Sony Timeline soon!

The Anime Timeline continues to be one of the site’s most popular pages, even with more than two years having elapsed since the release of the final film in the trilogy. Expect additions pertaining to the events of Planet of the Monsters to be published to the timeline in the near future!

The MonsterVerse Timeline has probably been the most interesting page to watch over the last few months. With the hype building toward next month’s release of Godzilla vs. Kong, this timeline has been exploding on the site. It’s been clicked on nearly 700 times in the last two months alone, making it the site’s most popular page of the year so far. Researching and updating this timeline is an ever-evolving process, especially with the bevy of new lore that’s set to come out surrounding Godzilla vs. Kong. Info on the events of Kong: Skull Island is due to hit the timeline at some point soon.

Lastly, there’s the Showa Timeline. This project has been a long time in the making, and when it was finally launched last year, the response was… well, overwhelming. I’m talking HUNDREDS of hits on the website within the first few days of its publishing. Talk about an amazing reception! I’m not sure when the next update will be coming, but I’m hoping it’ll be a big one to make up for the long wait!

THE “MONSTER MUSINGS” BLOG

This is another part of the site that has slowed down considerably. While I’m proud of the material published already, I really want the idea of behind-the-scenes blogs (and general pontifications on all things kaiju) to be a bigger part of not just the GNP, but of my overall writing contributions to the Godzilla fandom.

That said, I’m considering a radical shift in direction for the Monster Musings. It’s an exciting possibility, and I’ll be sure to share more with you as it develops…

EVERYTHING ELSE

As always, there’s a LOT more going on behind the scenes of the GODZILLA NOVELIZATION PROJECT than it might seem! There are a ton of chapters that have been outlined, and a number of concepts that have been documented for future use. Research on various aspects of the series continues on a daily basis, and new opportunities for collaboration and promotion are manifesting for the project, including merch production, potential audio books, and more!

What makes all of these opportunities and moments of growth so amazing is that most of them occurred during a year in which it seemed very little positivity occurred. Despite the unprecedented, frightening, and isolating time we’ve been living in for the last year, so much good did happen. All around the world, kaiju fans came together to laugh, have fun, and keep each other sane. Regardless of the physical distances between us, we found a way to celebrate monsters together. It was an amazing thing to see, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of such positivity. Hearing readers tell me that they read and enjoyed the GNP throughout 2020, and that it helped entertain them during a difficult year, means more to me than I could ever effectively put into words. Spreading smiles and positivity is what I’m all about, and if anything I did over this last year made you smile, I’m truly honored.

And WOW did I ever get to do a lot last year. Since the GNP’s previous anniversary, the project has:

• Published 18 updates
• Been visited over 15,000 times by more than 5,000 fans
• Completed additional chapters to three different books
• Completed two short stories and one blog
• Written a full comedic short story for April Fool’s Day
• Launched the Showa Timeline
• Added custom images to each book, short story, and timeline

And…

• Ditched the free version of the website for an add-free, better-looking professional version

That’s quite a lot! But wait, there’s more!

In addition to working on the GNP, I was able to do a lot if incredibly exciting things within the kaiju fan community, some of which were bucket-list items that I still can’t believe I got to do.

Over the last year, I was able to:

• Co-host a panel at an online convention
• Appear as a co-host on five different kaiju-themed podcasts
• Be interviewed by both The Kaiju Groupie and KnowYour.Meme.com
• Voice act in a Godzilla-themed audio drama
• Voice act on a podcast
• Work with a friend to translate and illustrate Shigeru Kayama’s “lost” Godzilla novelization
• Publish my first original short story
• Cameo in an in-development kaiju film!

Yeah, I’d say that’s a lot!

Through it all, I’ve been blown away by how supportive each and every one of you continue to be. Whether you’re a casual visitor to the site or one of my wonderful Patreon supporters, it’s your kindness, dedication, and willingness to take time out of your day to read my work that truly fuels this project. You’ll never know how unbelievably grateful I am for each and every one of you.

A QUICK TEASE FOR THE FUTURE!

Before I wrap up this status report, I wanted to leave you with a little taste for what you can expect from the GODZILLA NOVELIZATION PROJECT in the coming months.

As a general rule, I don’t tend to plan things too far ahead when it comes to the GNP. More often than not, I set goals for myself and, when I achieve those goals, I share the end results with my readers. This year, while much of that will remain the same, I’ll be trying something a little bit different…

I won’t be revealing too much too soon, but what I will say is that the GNP has three big goals for this year. Three big projects that I’ll be dedicating my time to over the next few months, all of which have the closest thing to a “hard deadline” the GNP has ever set for itself.

I’ll be keeping two of those projects close to the chest for the time being, but since y’all are so awesome, I figured that the GNP’s 3^rd anniversary was as good a time as any to drop a teaser for the third one…

2021 is going to be a big year for kaiju films, TV shows, comics, and more. But it’s also a significant year for any fan of classic monsters, particularly those of the Japanese variety. 60 years ago this spring, a little movie you may have heard of featuring a certain giant insect-goddess released in theaters, forever changing the kaiju genre and creating a legacy that extends all the way to today.

That’s right: 2021 marks six decades of Mothra. And not just the character, but the classic film that bears her name. Ishiro Honda’s 1961 masterpiece is considered to be one of the greatest monster films ever made, and one of the best examples of Japanese fantasy filmmaking of all time. It’s a classic through and through, and it’s always been one of my favorite films.

So, to celebrate its 60^th anniversary, the GNP is planning a brand-new project that aims to adapt its story in a unique (and hopefully entertaining) way. I won’t way too much yet, but just know that I am incredibly excited to be tackling this amazing story, and I hope I can do justice to this important and wonderful film.

Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks!

………………………………………………

Well, I think that’s just about as much as my fingers can type! This was a long read, so congratulations if you made it this far down the preceding wall of text! I feel it’s important to keep you guys in the loop, so hopefully these status reports are appreciated.

That said, I’d like to end this Status Report by, once again, thanking you all for your support, your encouragement, your patience, and your faith. Being able to pursue this dream is an incredible gift, and doing it without readers would be a difficult challenge, to say the least. It has been one heck of an amazing three years, but I assure you, we are just getting started. There will be much more to read (and write!), more camaraderie to be enjoyed, and (hopefully!) more fun to be had. I hope you’ll all continue to come along for the ride.

Thanks to you all! Stay happy, stay safe, and, as always, Long Live the King!