West Newport, Wisconsin
Like many works of science fiction, the Galactic Star Command Saga draws inspiration from real places, real people, and real experiences. One of the most personal examples is the fictional hometown of the Hawkins and McKnight families: West Newport, Wisconsin. Although West Newport does not exist on any map, it is directly inspired by the city of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, where I attended high school. Located about 34 miles west of Milwaukee, Wisconsin—a city that is also mentioned throughout the books—Oconomowoc is known for its beautiful lakes, tree-lined neighborhoods, historic homes, and strong sense of community. During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, it became a popular summer destination for many of America's wealthiest families, earning it the nickname "The Newport of the West," a reference to the famous resort city of Newport, Rhode Island. When developing the world of the Galactic Star Union, I wanted to honor the place that helped sh...