This 418-page book on the television series Space:1999 (1975 - 1977) is a mixed bag. The first thing that struck me while reading Destination: Moonbase Alpha - The Unofficial and Unauthorized Guide to Space: 1999 — and I can say this due to research I've done on old television programs — was the apparent lack of original research. I got the impression that writer Robert E. Wood didn't interview enough of those all-important behind-the-scenes people, folk important to production of a science fiction television series, with all its parts and pieces. There are no numbers, numbers drawn when one gets access to production paperwork. These deficits make for far too much conjecture on the writer's part. While I may like reading text containing scholarly in-depth detail in any such exploration, there are readers who do not. This treatment just might be the right stuff.
The plus: Robert E. Wood is fair and balanced in his episode reviews ― he's Canadian, eh?
Yes, "Journey to Where" is an outstanding episode ― for Space:1999, at least.
I was surprised he didn't rate "Dragon's Domain" higher given that fans tend to hold this episode in high regard. I would agree that it's up there.
"The Rules of Luton", just 4.5 (out of 10)?! Rubbish!
Destination: Moonbase Alpha is highly recommended to fans of the series. Part of the appeal of the book is Mr Wood's obvious love for Space:1999.
Destination: Moonbase Alpha
- The Unofficial and Unauthorized Guide to Space: 1999 -
by
Robert E. Wood
Telos Publishing Limited
2009
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