Lucy Lawless & Renee O'Connor

This informative and engaging book chronicles Lucy Lawless's journey from a budding opera singer to the surprising story of her landing the role of Xena. The book also tells the story of Reneé O'Connor, the blond-haired Texan who plays Xena's storytelling sidekick, and the undying support of Reneé's mother, who helped garner a fan base for her daughter that rivals Lucy's. Focusing on the unprecedented fan phenomenon that surrounds this highly inventive show, this book features a guide to various Xena Internet web sites, fan clubs, and e-mail listserves, including interviews with many of the fans who run them. It also includes reports by fans about the infamous subtext issue that has lured in the biggest single fan demographic, experiences of seeing Lucy in the Broadway production of Grease! in fall 1997, and why they love or hate Joxer. Also featured is a detailed episode guide. Using the show's references to various ancient myths, Stafford offers a historical background and analysis of each episode to enrich viewers' experience of each episode. Featuring a 16-page color photo section, exclusive photos from conventions, appearances, and autograph signings, and original illustrations, this is a fascinating book that Xena fans won't want to miss.