The commentary on the episodes is not very insightful, and the opinions of the author are at times facile. However the actual episode guide is sketchy and contains numerous errors. The main difference appears to be a more in depth episode guide in this book, with a fair amount of mythological background information included, and a useful detailed cast list. Naturally, this book hasn't got the sort of information that Robert Weisbrot's has, and it covers Hercules AND Xena.
I'll admit right off that having bought these two books recently, its the Official Xena book that's been the one to get my attention. The Unofficial Companion: Hercules and Xenaīy James Van Hise Renaissance Books 1998. There are also some very good quality colour photographs and an interesting appendix on how to do a convincing US accent for New Zealand actors, accounts of a writers meeting, what the actors get up to between takes and during read through sessions and much, much more. Ever wondered what stuntees do? Or how to pronounce Ngila Dickson? How about casting Kiwis? Insider information that I hadn't heard before had me rushing back to my tape of Sins of the Past to spot Rob Tapert in the staff fight and the production staff being walked on by Xena! Most Xena fans know the Lucy-was-a-goldminer story, or the acting background of Renée O'Connor well enough, but there is so much original information here, I am sure fans will be well pleased. For many of us, the behind the scenes section is the most interesting as author Weisbrot clearly had the opportunity to talk to all of those names that flash past before the witty disclaimer. The book is divided into sections the origins of the series, a facinating behind the scenes look, cast profiles, a look at tv heroines, and an episode guide. (Her comments range from the insightful to the frivolous, but it is a real scoop.) OK, so the episode guide only covers seasons one and two and isn't that in depth, but each episode has Lucy Lawless' own view of it. My highest recommendation to this very good book that even hardened Xena fans will enjoy. Guides The Official Guide to the Xenaverseīy Robert Weisbrot Doubleday Books 1998.
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