I've been wondering what the ATAC Vs. The Network war is -- or was about? I'm seeing some posts that mention it. But I don't get it. ???
Oh My Word that was this 'war' we had.... It was actually pretty hilarious... hold on let me find the link I'll post it in a second..
Okay Here is the ACTUAL war:
http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=788.0
Here's the after-war topic:
http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=918.msg20947#msg20947
read the WHOLE first topic first :)
It's KIND of still ongoing, we still argue a little bit
Oh, and another small war, just because they're stupid :
http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1583.0
Quote from: JoeHardyRocks on January 26, 2011, 08:54:37 PM
Okay Here is the ACTUAL war:
http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=788.0 (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=788.0)
Here's the after-war topic:
http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=918.msg20947#msg20947 (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=918.msg20947#msg20947)
read the WHOLE first topic first :)
It's KIND of still ongoing, we still argue a little bit
Oh, and another small war, just because they're stupid :
http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1583.0 (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1583.0)
Should I join or not? I do like ATAC over the Network most of the time! ;D
LOL I wish you would've been there when it started, we needed some more recruits for ATAC! I think it's kind of died now, at least until Bigfootman or bozonessinc gets back... Haha kinda j/k...
Quote from: JoeHardyRocks on January 26, 2011, 09:21:32 PM
LOL I wish you would've been there when it started, we needed some more recruits for ATAC! I think it's kind of died now, at least until Bigfootman or bozonessinc gets back... Haha kinda j/k...
Don't tell anyone who likes the Network. But ATAC is so much better then the Network! ;)
Okay, now this is coming from a general fan of The Hardy Boys who pretty much enjoys all the series to some degree. So I don't necessarily think The Network or ATAC is better than the other- both are good. I probably prefer the Casefiles because I'm more familiar with them. I would really need to read the Undercover Brothers books to have a more balanced opinion. (And I do have the collection of titles released thus far- just need to get around to reading them.) But just out of curiousity- are there particular things you like better about ATAC than The Network? (i.e. they do certain things better- perhaps they're nicer in general to The Hardys, better weaponry and tools, etc.)
Quote from: Hardy Boys UB Fan on January 26, 2011, 08:47:20 PM
I've been wondering what the ATAC Vs. The Network war is -- or was about?
It wasn't about much and it wasn't much of a "war".
Quote from: MacGyver on January 26, 2011, 11:22:07 PM
Okay, now this is coming from a general fan of The Hardy Boys who pretty much enjoys all the series to some degree. So I don't necessarily think The Network or ATAC is better than the other- both are good. I probably prefer the Casefiles because I'm more familiar with them. I would really need to read the Undercover Brothers books to have a more balanced opinion. (And I do have the collection of titles released thus far- just need to get around to reading them.) But just out of curiousity- are there particular things you like better about ATAC than The Network? (i.e. they do certain things better- perhaps they're nicer in general to The Hardys, better weaponry and tools, etc.)
ATAC is nicer to the Hardys and they have better weaponry. I like that they have technology (cell phone, laptops and the internet.) Also, that ATAC doesn't leave them with no direction as to what to do. The Network seems to leave them hanging when the do need help.
The only thing I don't like that much about ATAC is that the Hardy's never seem to get a break... They shouldn't start the books with the end of a mission then send them on another right afterwards... :-\ But other than that, I think it's great! They give them stuff whenever they go on missions, and in the GN's they have an archenemy! And sometimes you get to actually see the ATAC facility. They train the Hardy's in all kind of cool fighting stuff too! ;D They also tell them WHAT they need to do. The Network seem like ruthless killers, and they don't really seem to like the Hardys... And they also don't give them help after they send them on thier missions! :(
Quote from: JoeHardyRocks on January 27, 2011, 11:00:06 AM
The only thing I don't like that much about ATAC is that the Hardy's never seem to get a break... They shouldn't start the books with the end of a mission then send them on another right afterwards... :-\ But other than that, I think it's great! They give them stuff whenever they go on missions, and in the GN's they have an archenemy! And sometimes you get to actually see the ATAC facility. They train the Hardy's in all kinda of cool fighting stuff too! ;D They also tell them WHAT they need to do. The Network seem like ruthless killers, and they don't really seem to like the Hardys... And they also don't give them help after they send them on thier missions! :(
I agree. They shouldn't start the books like that. The Network
does seem like ruthless killers. :o I think they don't like them much either! ;)
Well, there is a big difference with ATAC and The Network that you have to remember. Fenton Hardy founded ATAC. Frank and Joe were his first recruits. Of course the sons of the founder are going to get treated well. The Hardys have much more control or least a say in the runnings of ATAC to some degree. So I think there is a much different setup there- especially since the organization specifically wanted teenagers working for them.
With The Network, it's much more of a different story. Frank and Joe have more of a begruding partnership with The Network after proving their worth to The Gray Man. Mainly because of Joe's quest for vengeance on terrorists for killing Iola and Frank's call to justice, they approached The Gray Man about helping more on their cases. The Network kind of has to work with them since they know about their operations and all- but they tolerate them more than anything. Frank and Joe don't really have the same pull as they might with ATAC or at least not the same connection, though The Network is certainly acquainted with Fenton Hardy. The Gray Man is willing to admit Frank and Joe are trustworthy and have proved useful, but they still are just kids and not really viewed as equals and they certainly aren't full time government secret agents. They are part-time help at best for special missions. So The Network does not see themselves as owing Frank and Joe anything and they do very little toward that. It's also part of keep all their operations in shadows. They do have to be a bit more ruthless because of what they have to deal with. It goes against Frank and Joe's grain sometimes, but that is their style. They do what they have to to get the job done. Frank and Joe however draw the line on some things.
Either group is cool with me, but they both have a lot of structural differences that come into play here.
I actually don't think that the war was about ATAC vs. Network, it was more a UB versus Casefiles....
What about UB vs. Originals and Digests? :P
Well we all agree that the Originals were good, and the Digests aren't that "controversial" I guess....
Quote from: MacGyver on January 27, 2011, 03:03:53 PM
Well, there is a big difference with ATAC and The Network that you have to remember. Fenton Hardy founded ATAC. Frank and Joe were his first recruits. Of course the sons of the founder are going to get treated well. The Hardys have much more control or least a say in the runnings of ATAC to some degree. So I think there is a much different setup there- especially since the organization specifically wanted teenagers working for them.
With The Network, it's much more of a different story. Frank and Joe have more of a begruding partnership with The Network after proving their worth to The Gray Man. Mainly because of Joe's quest for vengeance on terrorists for killing Iola and Frank's call to justice, they approached The Gray Man about helping more on their cases. The Network kind of has to work with them since they know about their operations and all- but they tolerate them more than anything. Frank and Joe don't really have the same pull as they might with ATAC or at least not the same connection, though The Network is certainly acquainted with Fenton Hardy. The Gray Man is willing to admit Frank and Joe are trustworthy and have proved useful, but they still are just kids and not really viewed as equals and they certainly aren't full time government secret agents. They are part-time help at best for special missions. So The Network does not see themselves as owing Frank and Joe anything and they do very little toward that. It's also part of keep all their operations in shadows. They do have to be a bit more ruthless because of what they have to deal with. It goes against Frank and Joe's grain sometimes, but that is their style. They do what they have to to get the job done. Frank and Joe however draw the line on some things.
Either group is cool with me, but they both have a lot of structural differences that come into play here.
What kind of structural differences? I know that Frank and Joe won't kill anyone. ;D
Quote from: JoeHardyRocks on January 27, 2011, 03:19:51 PM
Well we all agree that the Originals were good, and the Digests aren't that "controversial" I guess....
Yeah, the Digests were really good. :)
Quote from: Hardy Boys UB Fan on January 27, 2011, 10:42:05 AM
ATAC is nicer to the Hardys and they have better weaponry. I like that they have technology (cell phone, laptops and the internet.) Also, that ATAC doesn't leave them with no direction as to what to do. The Network seems to leave them hanging when the do need help.
ATAC never gives the boys any holidays chances to actually "go to school". As for the Network "leaving them hanging", in most cases the boys ran into the Network when they were investigating their own case (or as in the
Lazarus Plot were on vacation) and the Gray Man and the Network, while they found them useful, also found them to be a "snag" in their plans that they didn't invite.
As for technology, when the Casefiles were written in the 80's and 90's, unless you wanted the boys carrying around "the brick" or a satellite radio phone, it was much easier to get them to use a land phone, not too mention that the weapons that were used in the Casefiles were the "top of the line" in those days. But, really, dart gun that renders a person unconscious is better than all the weapons that ATAC has given the Hardy's.
The thing is, I don't really care which agency is "nicer" to the boys. I like the one that makes for a better story. ATAC has potential but it's never been used to it's full potential. Instead of having the boys fight terrorists - which is what you'd expect top-secret agents to do - they have fight saboteurs at hot dog eating contests and reality TV shows.
Quote from: SDLagent on January 27, 2011, 06:26:55 PM
The thing is, I don't really care which agency is "nicer" to the boys. I like the one that makes for a better story. ATAC has potential but it's never been used to it's full potential. Instead of having the boys fight terrorists - which is what you'd expect top-secret agents to do - they have fight saboteurs at hot dog eating contests and reality TV shows.
Whose best weapon is usually talking the boys to death.
Quote from: tomswift2002 on January 27, 2011, 06:17:32 PM
ATAC never gives the boys any holidays chances to actually "go to school". As for the Network "leaving them hanging", in most cases the boys ran into the Network when they were investigating their own case (or as in the Lazarus Plot were on vacation) and the Gray Man and the Network, while they found them useful, also found them to be a "snag" in their plans that they didn't invite.
As for technology, when the Casefiles were written in the 80's and 90's, unless you wanted the boys carrying around "the brick" or a satellite radio phone, it was much easier to get them to use a land phone, not too mention that the weapons that were used in the Casefiles were the "top of the line" in those days. But, really, dart gun that renders a person unconscious is better than all the weapons that ATAC has given the Hardy's.
Are you for the Network? The Hardys go to school. They do have friends that they hang out with. I think the UB's are easier to read and understand then the casefiles because they have all the things that we're used to in today's world.
But that doesn't really have anything to do with ATAC. It's just that the UB are more recent than the Casefiles so you can relate to them more.
Quote from: SDLagent on January 27, 2011, 06:33:32 PM
But that doesn't really have anything to do with ATAC. It's just that the UB are more recent than the Casefiles so you can relate to them more.
True! ;D
Quote from: Hardy Boys UB Fan on January 27, 2011, 06:29:07 PM
The Hardys go to school. They do have friends that they hang out with. I think the UB's are easier to read and understand then the casefiles because they have all the things that we're used to in today's world.
When do they go to school? Maybe in the
Graphic Novels, but in the main UB's the boys always finish one case and are trying to wind down when Vijay or someone else from ATAC shows up with a pizza or some sort of delivery that contain's the Hardy's mission disc, about an hour or two after the last case was wrapped up.
Aside from
Murder At The Mall you never see the boys hanging out with any of their friends because they are always away from Bayport on missions for ATAC. Not to mention, how many times have the boys come up with the most ridiculous excuse in order to go on these ATAC missions and Laura Hardy and Aunt Trudy aren't even the most tiny bit suspicious about the boy's real motive? I don't have any kids, but if I did, I would be getting suspicious of what they were doing if they kept saying that there was some sort of field trip every other week (and their friend's parent's would be saying that they had never heard of any of those field trips if I asked them). S&S have made Laura and Gertrude into the most densest characters that I have ever read, and it is extremely hard to believe that they aren't asking questions, even with the boys having Fenton on their side.
Yeah, Laura and Trudy not knowing has got to be the most unbelievable aspect of ATAC. Especially considering Laura is supposed to be really smart in the UB and Trudy is supposed to be nosy.
Quote from: tomswift2002 on January 27, 2011, 06:43:11 PM
When do they go to school? Maybe in the Graphic Novels, but in the main UB's the boys always finish one case and are trying to wind down when Vijay or someone else from ATAC shows up with a pizza or some sort of delivery that contain's the Hardy's mission disc, about an hour or two after the last case was wrapped up.
Aside from Murder At The Mall you never see the boys hanging out with any of their friends because they are always away from Bayport on missions for ATAC. Not to mention, how many times have the boys come up with the most ridiculous excuse in order to go on these ATAC missions and Laura Hardy and Aunt Trudy aren't even the most tiny bit suspicious about the boy's real motive? I don't have any kids, but if I did, I would be getting suspicious of what they were doing if they kept saying that there was some sort of field trip every other week.
I thought it was Bayport High? Yeah. I wonder how many times can they really lie and not get in trouble? ::)
No one said it wasn't Bayport High.
And speaking of high, maybe Laura and Trudy (and all the parents of all the other ATAC agents) are drugged. ATAC probably has a secret agreement with the drug companies or something.
I've only read 1 UB and it didn't impress me much. I tend to stick with the
Casefiles. 8)
Quote from: SDLagent on January 27, 2011, 06:51:32 PM
And speaking of high, maybe Laura and Trudy (and all the parents of all the other ATAC agents) are drugged.
Sounds reasonable. ;)
Quote from: SDLagent on January 27, 2011, 06:51:32 PM
No one said it wasn't Bayport High.
And speaking of high, maybe Laura and Trudy (and all the parents of all the other ATAC agents) are drugged. ATAC probably has a secret agreement with the drug companies or something.
Yeah. Like in
Torchwood where they use Retcon when they don't want someone to remember something.
You do realize I was joking?
I really don't understand why Fenton wouldn't have just told his wife and sister that he's started a secret agent group called ATAC and that Frank and Joe are helping him with it.
It's to keep them "safe". Meanwhile, he's sending his sons on crime-fighting missions.
I guess. It still gets pretty ridiculous though.
I agree. Considering he doesn't seem overly concerned with his sons' safety.
Not to mention that the criminal's don't bother to threaten the Hardy family, even after they've been locked up. I can't think of which Grosset & Dunalp book it is right now, but the Hardy's house actually gets bombed by a criminal who doesn't want Fenton and the boys investigating.
QuoteNot to mention that the criminal's don't bother to threaten the Hardy family, even after they've been locked up. I can't think of which Grosset & Dunalp book it is right now, but the Hardy's house actually gets bombed by a criminal who doesn't want Fenton and the boys investigating.
I'm not sure which book that is either, but such events do sound familiar from the Original continuity. I know in the revised version of
The Secret of the Old Mill, Fenton Hardy gets a threat wherein he's warned off the case otherwise it will mean danger for him and his family. So certainly criminals in that series threatened danger to the Hardys and actually carried out their threats a number of times.
I think the Hardy home get bombed in the original text of The Flickering Torch Mystery.
One thing I is odd is that Fenton works at home. It wouldn't be so easy for criminals to strike at his family if he didn't advertise his address on his business card.
Quote from: SDLagent on January 28, 2011, 01:38:25 AM
I think the Hardy home get bombed in the original text of The Flickering Torch Mystery.
One thing I is odd is that Fenton works at home. It wouldn't be so easy for criminals to strike at his family if he didn't advertise his address on his business card.
Yeah and it seems that Frank and Joe are the ones who are targeted.
Quote from: SDLagent on January 27, 2011, 07:14:56 PM
It's to keep them "safe". Meanwhile, he's sending his sons on crime-fighting missions.
LOL so true
Quote from: Hardy Boys UB Fan on January 29, 2011, 01:27:29 PM
Yeah and it seems that Frank and Joe are the ones who are targeted.
Which makes for a better story! :)
This whole "war" thing is funny because they really aren't similar enough to compare. However, if I HAD to pick, I would pick The Network because they were in the Casefiles.
but then again, I'd also choose the Assassins as the best villains.
Quote from: hardygirl847 on January 29, 2011, 06:08:35 PM
LOL so true
Which makes for a better story! :)
This whole "war" thing is funny because they really aren't similar enough to compare. However, if I HAD to pick, I would pick The Network because they were in the Casefiles.
but then again, I'd also choose the Assassins as the best villains.
Yeah. So would I in that case.
Quote from: MacGyver on January 27, 2011, 09:03:03 PM
I'm not sure which book that is either, but such events do sound familiar from the Original continuity. I know in the revised version of The Secret of the Old Mill, Fenton Hardy gets a threat wherein he's warned off the case otherwise it will mean danger for him and his family. So certainly criminals in that series threatened danger to the Hardys and actually carried out their threats a number of times.
The funny thing is, that I seem to recall it being in one of the later post-revision era G&D texts.
Quote from: tomswift2002 on January 30, 2011, 02:47:14 PM
The funny thing is, that I seem to recall it being in one of the later post-revision era G&D texts.
Well, it's happened a few times.
Quote from: SDLagent on January 31, 2011, 10:34:23 PM
Well, it's happened a few times.
Do you know when? Why do I keep thinking it might've been one of the UB's. . . ???
I don't remember it happening the UB. I was thinking of the Original series. It happened often in that series.
Yeah, it seems to me that it was somewhere around Bombay Boomerang and The Jugle Pyramid.
The Jugle Pyramid, I think. It's been awhile sine I read it, though.
Quote from: SDLagent on February 04, 2011, 04:55:44 PM
The Jugle Pyramid, I think. It's been awhile sine I read it, though.
Which series was that one in?
It's #56 in the Original Hardy Boys Mystery Series.
Quote from: MacGyver on February 04, 2011, 11:21:46 PM
It's #56 in the Original Hardy Boys Mystery Series.
That's what I thought.
Quote from: JoeHardyRocks on January 26, 2011, 08:48:07 PM
Oh My Word that was this 'war' we had.... It was actually pretty hilarious... hold on let me find the link I'll post it in a second..
It was really funny a lot of times! Those were also the days where everyone was on at the exact same time, so we'd have to refresh our page every minute to see new posts.
Quote from: SDLagent on January 27, 2011, 02:24:23 AM
It wasn't about much and it wasn't much of a "war".
Hey! Some of my best creative stuff was in there:
The Young and the Restless: Forum Wars. Half-kidding :D
Quote from: SDLagent on January 27, 2011, 06:47:16 PM
Yeah, Laura and Trudy not knowing has got to be the most unbelievable aspect of ATAC. Especially considering Laura is supposed to be really smart in the UB and Trudy is supposed to be nosy.
I feel the UBs are written for something of a very young audience so as a result, everything doesn't have to be explained. Kind of like if you're watching a kid show. It makes more sense that way to me.
Here's my recap of part of the war:
Recap (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1552.msg34944#msg34944)
Here's my dramatization of part of the war:
Dramatization (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1573.msg35085#msg35085) (This was fun to write)
Two posts in all.
Quote from: Olivia on February 08, 2011, 05:42:20 PM
Here's my recap of part of the war:
Recap (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1552.msg34944#msg34944)
Here's my dramatization of part of the war:
Dramatization (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1573.msg35085#msg35085) (This was fun to write)
Two posts in all.
LOL! ;D Looks like I missed out on the fun! I'd love be on here when a whole bunch of us are!
That was hilarious to read, Olivia. ;D
Thanks! 8)
Good to know it actually has some enjoyable use as history and dramatization of the "War". lol.
Quote from: Olivia on February 08, 2011, 06:18:27 PM
Thanks! 8)
Good to know it actually has some enjoyable use as history and dramatization of the "War". lol.
Yeah. I wish I would have joined sooner. Too bad it's over . . . unless someone wants to start it up again.
Any volunteers? ;)
I don't know how many ATACers/UBers we have this time around. I know it was a bit more even before.
But it needs to start naturally. I don't know how we would get it going this time since it began with insults last time.
Okay, I'm joking.
Quote from: Olivia on February 08, 2011, 07:11:20 PM
I don't know how many ATACers/UBers we have this time around. I know it was a bit more even before.
But it needs to start naturally. I don't know how we would get it going this time since it began with insults last time.
Okay, I'm joking.
Okay, I agree with you on that. I wonder how we could do it without insulting each other, then? :-\
I'm one of the ATACers/UBers. :)
Quote from: Olivia on February 08, 2011, 05:39:10 PMHey! Some of my best creative stuff was in there: The Young and the Restless: Forum Wars. Half-kidding :D
Yeah, come to think of it, I did put a good amount of time and effort into slamming the
UB but eventually I just got sick of it because I was repeating myself so much, etc.
Quote from: SDLagent on February 09, 2011, 12:47:01 AM
Yeah, come to think of it, I did put a good amount of time and effort into slamming the UB but eventually I just got sick of it because I was repeating myself so much, etc.
How did you slam the
UB's?
Quote from: Olivia on February 08, 2011, 05:42:20 PM
Here's my recap of part of the war:
Recap (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1552.msg34944#msg34944)
Here's my dramatization of part of the war:
Dramatization (http://www.hardyboyscasefiles.com/forums/index.php?topic=1573.msg35085#msg35085) (This was fun to write)
Two posts in all.
That's hilarious! ;D
Quote from: SDLagent on February 09, 2011, 03:21:50 PM
In every way imaginable.
How could I slam the other side?
You couldn't.
I'm not you.
Quote from: SDLagent on February 09, 2011, 05:44:19 PM
I'm not you.
I bet I could slam into the other side. ;D Then again, maybe not. :-\
UB fans, have you actually read any Casefiles, Digests, or bluespines???? If not, you have no idea what you're missing!
Quote from: hardygirl847 on February 14, 2011, 04:03:48 PM
UB fans, have you actually read any Casefiles, Digests, or bluespines? ??? If not, you have no idea what you're missing!
Yes I have. ;D Until I started reading the
UB's I thought they were great! ;D
Quote from: hardygirl847 on February 14, 2011, 04:03:48 PM
UB fans, have you actually read any Casefiles, Digests, or bluespines????
I've read all the series, and I'm pretty much just a fan of all of them.
Very interesting.
Quote from: JoeHardyRocks on February 14, 2011, 04:15:46 PM
I've read all the series, and I'm pretty much just a fan of all of them.
Yeah. I am too! ;D ;)
OK...so what makes you choose UBs over the Casefiles, Digests, bluespines, etc?
Quote from: hardygirl847 on February 14, 2011, 05:10:57 PM
OK...so what makes you choose UBs over the Casefiles, Digests, bluespines, etc?
Technology! (Sorry, not yelling!)
LOL Well they do have some nifty gadgets but doing it "old school" is still cool too. They kicked just as much butt before or maybe even more than they do as ATAC.
Quote from: hardygirl847 on February 14, 2011, 05:17:33 PM
LOL Well they do have some nifty gadgets but doing it "old school" is still cool too. They kicked just as much butt before or maybe even more than they do as ATAC.
They did? ???
Yeah, they did. Especially in the Casefiles. In that series, Frank and Joe would take-on heavily armed terrorists with nothing but their fists. In the UB, Frank and Joe take-on nerds who cheat at hot dog eating contests with the latest ATAC tech. Which is more badass?
Quote from: SDLagent on February 14, 2011, 05:58:15 PM
Yeah, they did. Especially in the Casefiles. In that series, Frank and Joe would take-on heavily armed terrorists with nothing but their fists. In the UB, Frank and Joe take-on nerds who cheat at hot dog eating contests with the latest ATAC tech. Which is more badass?
But they have all kinds of technology in the
UB's! How cool is that? :)
It may be cool but it doesn't really make the writing or the stories can better and ATAC tech can sometimes be used as a plot device for lazy writers.
Quote from: SDLagent on February 14, 2011, 06:10:24 PM
It may be cool but it doesn't really make the writing or the stories can better and ATAC tech can sometimes be used as a plot device for lazy writers.
What do you mean?
Well, if the Hardys are trapped and the writer doesn't know how to get them out of a situation, he just write a ATAC gadget into the story for the sole purpose of getting Frank and Joe out that situation.
Quote from: SDLagent on February 14, 2011, 06:15:54 PM
Well, if the Hardys are trapped and the writer doesn't know how to get them out of a situation, he just write a ATAC gadget into the story for the sole purpose of getting Frank and Joe out that situation.
Yeah. It's like, "Can they not use their brain?" ::)
Exactly. So you agree, then?
Plus, using a gadget as a easy-out is pretty predictable. It's a classic trope of the spy genre.
Quote from: SDLagent on February 14, 2011, 06:21:41 PM
Exactly. So you agree, then?
Plus, using a gadget as a easy-out is pretty predictable. It's a classic trope of the spy genre.
Very true.
Quote from: SDLagent on February 14, 2011, 06:21:41 PM
Exactly. So you agree, then?
Plus, using a gadget as a easy-out is pretty predictable. It's a classic trope of the spy genre.
On that, yes I do.
Quote from: AlwaysAJoefan on February 14, 2011, 06:41:04 PM
Very true.
;)
So if you agree that the tech isn't what makes the UB better, what does make them better?
Quote from: SDLagent on February 14, 2011, 07:01:14 PM
So if you agree that the tech isn't what makes the UB better, what does make them better?
That they're set in today's time. :)
That doesn't make them "better", though. I can see liking that aspect of the series but liking them more just because they are "set in today's time"?
Actually, the UB will probably get dated faster than any other Hardy Boys series because of their references to pop culture. I think one of the later books even mentions a specific season of Lost! That's going be outdated in months!
Quote
Plus, using a gadget as a easy-out is pretty predictable. It's a classic trope of the spy genre.
Herein is the difference between James Bond and MacGyver. Bond just pulls stuff out that Q already made for him whereas MacGyver pulls stuff together from whatever is lying around and finds inventive escapes. :)
(But don't worry- I still love both of them. 8))
MacGyver even acknowledged the
James Bond inspiration in
The Heist episode when MacGyver, dressed in a tuxedo, identified himself as "Bond, James Bond." :D
But regarding the Undercover Brothers books- yes, they do have some cool technology that ATAC provides Frank and Joe with. I don't think this really makes or breaks a book- but it's nice to have. I understand SDLAgent's point about it being an easy out for writers who get the Hardys trapped in a corner. And the UB books are set in modern times, so that's easier to relate to and that makes sense. Of course, I guess older fans can find it just as easy to relate to the other series since some of them grew up in those same times with the books. Maybe the personable first person writing style appeals to Hardy Boys UB Fan along with the fact that they do try to utilize the language of today's teenagers (note I said try- I'm not sure if they're always successful in that- but I suppose it sounds more modern than "Gee, Frank- that's swell." ;D)
I take it you're not a fan of historical fiction, HBUBF? All the classics from the 1600s, 1700s, 1800s and early 1900s have way less technology in them than even the original text version of The Hardy Boys Original series. But that doesn't make Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island or Jules Verne's Around the World in 80 Days any less exciting. But that's just my opinion. I'm sorry- I'm not meaning to criticize your interests or likes. I can understand that more recent books are probably easier for you to get into and that's okay. I think the point some of the other fans on here are trying to make is that the writing level and style of the UB books just doesn't quite match up to the standard set in the Casefiles, Digests and Original 58 books. But it's not necessarily wrong (though some might view it as such)- it's just different. If you don't like it- that's okay. If you do like that style- that's cool too. The main thing is that The Hardy Boys are cool in whatever facet they may appear. :) 8)
Quote from: MacGyver on February 15, 2011, 01:21:03 AM
But regarding the Undercover Brothers books- yes, they do have some cool technology that ATAC provides Frank and Joe with. I don't think this really makes or breaks a book- but it's nice to have. I understand SDLAgent's point about it being an easy out for writers who get the Hardys trapped in a corner. And the UB books are set in modern times, so that's easier to relate to and that makes sense. Of course, I guess older fans can find it just as easy to relate to the other series since some of them grew up in those same times with the books. Maybe the personable first person writing style appeals to Hardy Boys UB Fan along with the fact that they do try to utilized the language of today's teenagers (note I said try- I'm not sure if they're always successful in that- but I suppose it sounds more modern than "Gee, Frank- that's swell." ;D )
I take it you're not a fan of historical fiction, HBUBF? All the classics from the 1600s, 1700s, 1800s and early 1900s have way less technology in them than even the original text version of The Hardy Boys Original series. But that doesn't make Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island or Jules Verne's Around the World in 80 Days any less exciting. But that's just my opinion. I'm sorry- I'm not meaning to criticize your interests or likes. I can understand that more recent books are probably easier for you to get into and that's okay. I think the point some of the other fans on here are trying to make is that the writing level and style of the UB books just doesn't quite match up to the standard set in the Casefiles, Digests and Original 58 books. But it's not necessarily wrong (though some might view it as such)- it's just different. If you don't like it- that's okay. If you do like that style- that's cool too. The main thing is that The Hardy Boys are cool in whatever facet they may appear. :) 8)
That's the point I'm trying to make, and I know that we all have different view points on the HB's and I'm cool with that. ;D 8)
Quote from: MacGyver on February 15, 2011, 01:21:03 AM
But regarding the Undercover Brothers books- yes, they do have some cool technology that ATAC provides Frank and Joe with. I don't think this really makes or breaks a book- but it's nice to have. I understand SDLAgent's point about it being an easy out for writers who get the Hardys trapped in a corner. And the UB books are set in modern times, so that's easier to relate to and that makes sense. Of course, I guess older fans can find it just as easy to relate to the other series since some of them grew up in those same times with the books. Maybe the personable first person writing style appeals to Hardy Boys UB Fan along with the fact that they do try to utilize the language of today's teenagers (note I said try- I'm not sure if they're always successful in that- but I suppose it sounds more modern than "Gee, Frank- that's swell." ;D)
I take it you're not a fan of historical fiction, HBUBF? All the classics from the 1600s, 1700s, 1800s and early 1900s have way less technology in them than even the original text version of The Hardy Boys Original series. But that doesn't make Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island or Jules Verne's Around the World in 80 Days any less exciting. But that's just my opinion. I'm sorry- I'm not meaning to criticize your interests or likes. I can understand that more recent books are probably easier for you to get into and that's okay. I think the point some of the other fans on here are trying to make is that the writing level and style of the UB books just doesn't quite match up to the standard set in the Casefiles, Digests and Original 58 books. But it's not necessarily wrong (though some might view it as such)- it's just different. If you don't like it- that's okay. If you do like that style- that's cool too. The main thing is that The Hardy Boys are cool in whatever facet they may appear. :) 8)
Whoa, Mac....you said it!!
I can agree with some of what SDLagent is saying too. I personally think they were the most badass in the Casefiles series. ATAC does make it easier for the writers to get out of situations.
However, I am glad that there is an audience that likes the UBs and thus likes the Hardy Boys. Positive attention for them is a great thing even if some of us would rather stick to the "oldies but goodies". :)
Well, like it or not, the Undercover Brothers series is the only thing keeping The Hardy Boys going right now- outside of the graphic novels. So unless this series ends and a new one starts- or a spinoff starts- we're kinda stuck with this one when looking for new official canon adventures for Frank and Joe. (Okay, yeah- and there's The Secret Files too. ;D Which at least is not written in first person style- and includes a fun comic at the end of each book- and it has had appearances from The Hardys' chums, some of whom have long been absent from the current books- so I can say that much for it.)
Well, I am glad there's SOMETHING out there of the Hardy Boys books...but really the bluespines are what I see in the stores the most. I rarely see a GN or UB. Secret files ....sometimes.
It's just sad. BUT I would totally be into a revival of the Casefiles. Maybe "The Lost Casefiles" or something. I'd be all for that.
BTW, it's LESS than a month until Break Up! WAHOO!
Quote from: hardygirl847 on February 20, 2011, 04:54:59 PM
Well, I am glad there's SOMETHING out there of the Hardy Boys books...but really the bluespines are what I see in the stores the most. I rarely see a GN or UB. Secret files ....sometimes.
In my area I don't see the Grosset & Dunlap books on the shelves, and it is just the first 2 UB's and a few of the more recent releases.
It's still way less than ND. And some of our book stores are closing around me. So now it's really slim pickings.
Quote from: hardygirl847 on February 21, 2011, 04:15:28 PM
It's still way less than ND. And some of our book stores are closing around me. So now it's really slim pickings.
I envy anyone who lives close to a book store. :-\
Quote from: AlwaysAJoefan on February 21, 2011, 04:34:07 PM
I envy anyone who lives close to a book store. :-\
So do I! ;)
How come? Do you live in a rural area? Besides, the internet is really the best place to find good deals on books.
Quote from: hardygirl847 on February 21, 2011, 08:38:08 PM
How come? Do you live in a rural area? Besides, the internet is really the best place to find good deals on books.
Yes I do.
For those looking for good deals on books, allow me to offer a few suggestions. Now thankfully, I do live pretty close to bookstores and that is helpful. But don't forget to check particularly the used bookstores as well as antique stores and thrift stores. You can sometimes find some really good stuff there. And of course, the yard sales, garage sales or rummage sales, depending on what part of the world you're in. Also, library sales are great for finding all sorts of discarded books and such.
But there are some good places to check online for good deals- I would try the Internet sites like Amazon.com and Ebay.com of course. But there is also www.abebooks.com and www.alibris.com
www.bookfinder.com is also really incredible.
And for those looking for the super cheap method (i.e. essentially FREE!)- check out www.bookmooch.com and www.paperbackswap.com
I have recently been experimenting with these sites and I have been able to trade a lot of extra books and/or no longer wanted books that I've had lying around and in return receive a lot of other books I've been looking for. The only thing I really pay for is postage whenever it's my time to send something- and that's not but a few bucks in most cases.
Anyway- just thought I'd throw those out there. :)
Awesome Mac!!! Thanks for those links! :)
Quote from: hardygirl847 on February 21, 2011, 08:38:08 PM
How come? Do you live in a rural area? Besides, the internet is really the best place to find good deals on books.
I live in the country. But I love my eBay and Amazon. 8)
QuoteAwesome Mac!!! Thanks for those links!
As MacGyver himself would say, No problem. :) 8)
You rock, Mac.
Back at cha, HG. 8)
LOL Thanks ;)
QuoteAnd for those looking for the super cheap method (i.e. essentially FREE!)- check out www.bookmooch.com and www.paperbackswap.com
By the way- if anyone does decide to use either of these sites, please send me a PM to let me know- so I can give you my info on there and you can list me as a referral when you sign up. Thanks! :D
Even better Mac. Thanks :)