I can now make it official: David Morrell, the author of First Blood and creator of Rambo, will be writing the foreword to my Writer’s Digest book, The Writer’s Guide to Weapons: A Practical Reference for Using Firearms and Knives in Fiction.

I’m beyond thrilled about this development. Morrell’s John Rambo character looms large over pop culture. A fifth (fifth!) Rambo movie, Last Blood, was even announced earlier this month, with Sylvester Stallone reprising his famous role. The portrayal of firearms and knives in those movies influenced countless writers, sometimes in good ways (familiarization with certain models and types) and other times not so much (unrealistic portrayals of weapons). But that’s what keeps people like me in business. It’s safe to say that without Morrell’s Rambo, Weapons for Writers wouldn’t be what it is today (or will be when it hits in July). Hell, it might not even exist at all.

Which is why Writer’s Digest hit it on the head by tapping Morrell for the foreword. Damn.

Of course, Morrell is known for much more than just Rambo. Here’s his extensive biography from Amazon.

David Morrell is the author of FIRST BLOOD, the award-winning novel in which Rambo was created. He holds a Ph. D. in American literature from Penn State and was a professor in the English department at the University of Iowa. His numerous New York Times bestsellers include the classic spy trilogy that begins with THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE ROSE, the basis for the only television mini-series to premier after a Super Bowl. The other books in the trilogy are THE FRATERNITY OF THE STONE and THE LEAGUE OF NIGHT AND FOG. An Edgar, Anthony, and Macavity nominee, Morrell is the recipient of three Bram Stoker awards and the prestigious Thriller Master award from the International Thriller Writers organization. His writing book, THE SUCCESSFUL NOVELIST, discusses what he has learned in his four decades as an author. His latest novel is the highly praised Victorian mystery/thriller, MURDER AS A FINE ART.

Yeah, like I said. Damn. Rare is Morrell’s breed. Be sure to pick up First Blood if you haven’t already, along with the rest of Morrell’s catalog.

I know it’s a weekday and all, but, please, enjoy an adult beverage when you get home. Toast to this great news and celebrate with me.

Best,

Ben

* Author photo via Amazon