From 2001-02, Tribune Entertainment created six Mutant X faux websites in order to supplement the information from the television series. These sites featured a great wealth of background information about the Mutant X characters and plot's storylines, but they vanished in early 2005. This site has an archive of Tribune Entertainment's faux website, My Friend's Bookstore, prior to its disappearance. I'm saving this here in case this archive vanishes as well, but none of the following material is my own.
Welcome: My Friend’s Bookstore
Located at 13th and Old Maple Street, My Friend’s Bookstore always has its shelves dusted off for the browsing mutant. Owner Ruby Bishop is not only a well-read intellect but reads intellects well. In other words, he’s a telepath (call him “esper” when you first meet and it will make his day). He’ll see to your literate needs, especially those you cannot voice aloud.
An all purpose facility; you will receive special attention by asking Ruby (verbally or mentally) for a copy of Dickens’ “Our Mutual Friend”. It’s a title he will always have in stock. He will counter with a reply asking if you’re interested in rare additions of James Hilton he has just received. If your situation is pressing, request, “Goodbye, Mr. Chips”. If you are merely paying a casual visit, request “Lost Horizon”. From there you will be cordially directed to the section of the shop that most suits you.
To help Rudy and his staff, be prepared to describe yourself through a literary reference. If you are Feral, express a fondness for London’s “Call of the Wild”. Psionics will get good results stating a preference for Poe’s “Telltale Heart”. Shakespeare’s “Tempest” will tip you off as an Elemental and Ovid’s “Metamorphosis” will tell them you’re a Molecular. Any non-mutant friends can cite Saroyan’s “Human Comedy” and get instant, cheery feedback.
If you need a solid read or just want to be read, do your homework, know your quotatibles and start turning the pages of “My Friend’s Bookstore”. There’s a title for everyone. Poetry night every Tuesday, Book-of-the-Month club (Ruby’s choice) on Fridays. Don’t be shy. Remember, as Ruby says, “For every non, there’s a fiction.”
The Tempest
Tell-Tale Heart
More Selections:
INVISIBLE MAN
CALL OF THE WILD
ALICE'S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND
KUBLA KAHN
FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS
1984
WUTHERING HEIGHTS
For the Feral in You
Welcome Ferals. This is your den. A place to tame all senses. Prowl, browse and sharpen skills here. No need to hide instincts. We're all the same species on this site...[MORE]
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Orwell's "1984"
Genomex is a government-sanctioned facility that has the official purpose of monitoring the field of genetic sciences for the good of mankind. In truth, it is the laboratories that created all New Mutants and now operates as a force to subdue them into living weapons against enemies of state.
Dr. Paul Alexander Breedlove, European DNA genius and former Nazi protégé, was recruited in the mid 1960's to head a team of scientists that would create an army of super-beings. Under the guise of a worldwide chain of medical clinics specializing in the care of birth defects, the Breedlove Institute, (subsidized by federal funds and grants from the Eleanor Singer Breedlove trust), gene-spliced thousands of embryos in unsuspecting mothers with both organic and radiated material that resulted in a new race of humans. Four species were developed: Ferals (animal fusions), Elementals (nature wielders), Moleculars (breaking the laws of nature from a molecular level) and Psionics (mentally enhanced).
It was the original intention of Genomex to keep a tight rein on all its "children" as they grew to usable age. This plot was crushed by the defection of one of Dr. Breedlove's inner circle, known only as Adam. Heroically he destroyed Genomex's data and tracking base, sabotaged their current techniques and formed the underground Mutant X to combat them in future acts of malice.
Genomex and the government responded by fashioning the Genetics Security Agency or GSA, a deadly task force unit designed to hunt and capture New Mutants and return them to the mother center for conditioning or scientific dissection. Headed, since the death of Dr. Breedlove, by security expert, Mason Eckhart, the GSA is based out of Genomex's main compound, a highly guarded citadel with a labyrinth of laboratories and "cold stasis" chambers. Ironically, some of their top agents are New Mutants who, for one reason or another, have chosen to turn against their own kind.
GSAgents all carry hi-tech weaponry and official credentials that allow them to operate Carte Blanc in a federal capacity. They can police and investigate all situations they deem a threat and detain any suspected New Mutant or associate for questioning. It is a near guarantee that any one apprehended and brought to Genomex will not be leaving. The only line of defense against these foes is Mutant X and the Underground.
Current information on the GSA, their agents, superiors and associates is available and continually updated on this site. Reports of any kind will be taken seriously and posted. "Knowing your enemy will keep you a step ahead of them."
KNOWN NEW MUTANT GSAGENTS:
Bigelow, Michele. Psionic (cyber kinetic).
Berkley, Aldous. Feral (canine). DECEASED.
Blake, Lena. Feral (reptilian).
Fries, Pamela. Elemental (thermal).
Lancaster, Harvey. Elemental (combustion).
Lynch, Eli. Elemental (wind).
Mac Envoy, Kendra. Psionic (strength-augmented).
Marlowe, Charles. Molecular ("Untouchable"). DECEASED.
Porter, Calvin. Molecular (super-hearing).
Renfield, Nick. Molecular (stasis inducer).
Stone, Wendy. Molecular (gravitative).
Thorne, Frank. Psionic (telekinetic). Currently a fugitive.
THE TEMPEST
Yo there, temperature-tamperin' dudes an' babes. If you're an Elemental, this is the place for you! Kick back and let the sparks fly. We're all nature-benders on this page so just chill out…or get toasted.
WATER SHORTIN' YOU OUT? Common problem for Electricals or Heat Thermals. Didja know a thin layer of latex can keep your flow goin' strong? In 85% of all cases, it's true. Johnson's Surgical out of Ohio makes the ultimate peel-on bodysuit (sold in 20-packs @ 15.99 per). It seals on so one knows it's there unless you go for the fuchsia, goldenrod or teal shades. Also available in ethnic or suntan. So hit the waves, zappers! Swim, fish or do a Gene Kelly an' go singin' in the rain. With Johnson's it won't be a shock! (Go to www.latexans or phone toll-free 1-800-NOLEAKYS for orders)
BOTANICALS! How does your garden grow? Linda Seely, TV's Domestic goddess and proven New Mutant friend would like some tips for her gardening segment. Promises to pay healthy greens if they blossom. Browse West's "Day of the Locust" if you're budding with news.
Got a personal request here: Monica, a foxy wind elemental from the San Fernando Valley, is lookin' for a dude who whirls things up as much as she does. Wants to take long walks on the beach with him…and whatever else hits the breeze. Guys, trust me, she is one picture-perf sample of DNA. So if you're a sturdy Zephyr, 20-40, with abs, gab and a need to grab, throw caution to the wind and send a 3 minute vid-disk to My Friend's requesting Emily Bronte's "Wuthering Heights" (New Mutant Lonely Hearts). We'll see if there's a twister in your future.
Another personal: Zachary Eton, your folks want you home. The ice powers were never a problem and they love you. Sounds like they mean it, Z. Give 'em a break. Mutant X Lives will pick up the call.
MAJOR GUEST STAR: Brennan Mulwray, the Electrical from Mutant X, is givin' a talk to wayward juvenile elementals and their parents at the X Center in Chicago on Sat. March 2nd at 6PM. If anyone knows how a nature-bendin' delinquent thinks, it's this former hood. He'll scare your kids straight an' maybe make 'em heroes out of 'em. Check it out.
Ernie, a Chemical from Vermont, is selling his prime condition '68 Thunderbird complete with gas-masks. Browse H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine" for details.
MEGA-JOB OFFERS FOR COLD THERMALS in Juno, Alaska. Many positions, will train if necessary and excellent benefits. In other words, if you can dig the wind chill factor, they'll dig you. Browse Jules Verne's "Around the World in 80 Days" for specifs.
KEEP TUNING IN, E's!!!
The Tell-Tale Heart
Being Psionics, we don't need to speak much. However, there is much more to convey. Pass on your thoughts, verbally or otherwise. All will be received.
Every new idea is an old dream.
Even a Precog cannot predict love.
TO S.W.: "Read your mind. It needs editing." J.B.
Any telepaths interested in Taos retreat check out Homer's "The Odyssey" for travel arrangements. You already know the dates.
Pyrotechnics always have a light.
Illusionists are often lonely souls.
Empaths need a break from stray heartbreaks and random rage? Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" provides sound advice from wise caterpillars to help you sort it out.
Levitation isn't all sets off to be. Stay grounded.
I met a man who read my mind, yet never knew my face.
TO H.H.: "See you at you-know-where for you-know-what on you-know-when." FROM: You-Know-Who.
Telekinetics: Gaining weight because you don't need your muscles? The Mutant X exercise programs in Hemingway's "For Whom the Bell Tolls" (actually, in any Hemingway title) will keep
you in shape.
Is it love or is that just a gun in your pocket? If you don't wish to know, don't empath.
TO J.G.: "***************" FROM: M.R.
I sensed Joy. It was not mild on my hands.
To all Cyberpaths: Remember to unplug and do the flesh-and-blood thing occasionally.
Telepaths give good mind.
She wasn't a saint. She was just psionic.
Telekinetics never need keys…but the good ones use them any way.
Remember the fallen. Check out Margaret Mitchell's "Gone With the Wind". (Was Scarlett O'Hara a Precog? "Tomorrow is another day.")
Blind dates never blind enough, telepaths? Bronte's "Wuthering Heights" can help keep the mystery in Psionic romance.
For Astral Projectors there is never an edge.
I don't see, I know. I don't know, I feel. I don't feel…I'm dead.
Meditation always applies. Don't get sloppy, Joe.
Got it bad? You could always be Feral.
CLOSING NOTE: Great minds are rare. Try reading a good book. Peace.
Dracula
Good evening, Ferals. This is a site dedicated to daily maintenance of our particular needs as animal hybrids. Exterior and interior issues are covered. So recline, snack on a rare roast beef sandwich and prowl through these pages. We know how to stroke you the right way.
CLAW CARE
Felines. Sharper is not always better. Latest research shows that those of you with finger or toe claws (even retractable ones) stand more risk of infections, disease and nail breakage by over-filing yourselves. Razor-like sharpness may have its surface advantages, but ultimately, it is the force behind any swipe that determines its effectiveness. In other words, work your biceps and let nature punch the holes for you.
Ursine Males. Trimming seems to be a recurring problem here. The bear in your bloodstream just doesn't adapt well to this grooming habit, resulting in stump-like ends or neglected spikes. Give your macho egos a rest and invest some money in regular manicure appointments. There is a list of New Mutant friendly veterinarians and industrial manicurists nationwide available through this site. They are all discreet. Check them out, big guys. We'd like to be able to shake your hand without drawing back a bloody stub.
FANGS
Reptilians. If venom sacs keep you away from a dentist's chair, here is good news. Adam of Mutant X has developed a temporary detoxin that will safely "dry up" your poisonous ducts for approximately four hour periods (ala a commercial sinus medicine). These tablets are available through this site or any Mutant X Lives outlet. So, get your teeth cleaned without taking the life of your hygienist. It's your right.
General. Most of us have some type of fang to deal with. Regular brushing and dental checks are not only sound but also a health must. Oversized and specifically curved toothbrushes, anti-germ/saliva controlling paste polish and gum flossing (especially for retractables) need to be implemented from childhood. It is our animal nature to ignore these regiments so our human sides take charge. Detailed instructions and even personally designed fang care routines have long been a stable of "Dracula". USE THEM. Do not let your teeth tip off Genomex to who you are.
Felines. See sharpening notes in CLAW CARE. Same rules apply. Leave the bloody predator punctures to the average human and rise above them.
ANTLERS
Cervines. REMOVAL IS NOT THE ANSWER. There is a recent disturbing trend among Cervine Feral youths to remove their antlers. While we sympathize with the visible liability of having horns, the hazards of this self-mutilation cannot be over-emphasized. Not only is lethal infection assured but also permanent damage to equilibrium, balance and mental health. Embrace your deer heritage and trust that some day a solution will be found that allows you to be seen. Holo-bands worn round the forehead have had promising results. They render most antlers invisible and allow a measure of public interaction provided contact is not too close. This is but one method being perfected by dedicated New Mutant scientists. We will not rest until we get you out of the woods, Cervines. Do not harm yourselves in the meantime.
CARNIVORES
Renowned Scottish chef Angus Cameron has recently put out a collection of recipes entitled, "A Taste of Red". It is packed with meat dishes that should satisfy even the bloodthirstiest of Ferals (many prepared with raw ingredients). Copies are available through this site at a discount or, if you can't wait for delivery, check out the cooking section of your local bookstore. Cameron's Black Clot Pie (pg. 104) could sate a month's worth of temptation alone.
MOONGLOW
Our sister site, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" offer 24 hour consoling to all Ferals who feel the pull of the moon a bit too strongly. Carnal carnage is a common concern and can be controlled (or at least tempered in the case of most Canines). Don't be lost in lust. Give Alice a try.
All input from veterinarians, dental technicians and New Mutant experts is welcome and will be posted. Please keep subject matter to the physical categories listed and post all other Feral concerns to "Call of the Wild".
The Invisible Man
Stealths are a rare type of Molecular New Mutant. They project auras around their bodies that negate light rays and render them, their attire and whatever they carry invisible to the human eye. This rare ability comes at a tremendous cost. To date, no Stealth has survived to the age of forty-five and most succumb to chronic health degeneration while in their twenties.
Created in the laboratories of Genomex during the mid-1970's, these men and women were born from experiments that attempted to control the patterns of their embryonic DNA to achieve the desired invisibility. The procedure, which had been successful with Ferals, proved hazardous for Stealths. Unstable factors in Molecular genetics resulted in New Mutants with compromised immunity systems and often mental imbalance that would manifest in adolescence. Only a small percentage of the original Stealths made it to adulthood and then, only two managed to escape the confines of Genomex.
The fugitives have kept low profiles in the outside world, keeping themselves out of contact with the branches of Mutant X, the Underground and even each other. They have both parented children, all of whom inherited their invisible powers and health risks that come with them. There is also evidence of "natural" Stealth Moleculars, born without the influence of the Breedlove labs. Regardless, all appear to suffer the same debilitating physical defects and are in need of help. Control over their fading worsens each year after sixteen and is often accompanied by respiratory or cystic ailments. All of these symptoms contribute to a fragile mental state as well.
Mutant X founder Adam along with fellow sympathetic and trusted scientists have learned that Ephenol, a new and relatively untested synthetic, can have a stabilizing influence on an adult Stealth's deterioration. Results, however, are unpredictable, as is the potential for dangerous side effects. Further testing is needed before the drug can be applied as medicine. The expense of this endeavor is, to put it bluntly, "out of sight".
We here at "The Invisible Man" ask that all readers with means and a heart for this cause to donate time, resources and funds so these much abused New Mutants can finally surface and join the rest of us. Help us refine Ephenol or develop viable alternatives before Stealths become a vanished race. The only thing we know for certain is that they are a part of our family and need visible attention NOW.
Contact us through this site or any Mutant X Lives outlet. Any form of contribution is appreciated. Thank you.
Alice's adventures in Wonderland
"Who are you?" said the Caterpillar.
Indeed, who are any of us? Are we mutants or genetically altered humans? Freaks or advanced beings? Should we be peaceful and secretive or rage and try to control?
These are questions that can take a toll on our mental health unless we find ways to answer them. "Alice's Adventures" is a 24-hour service staffed with New Mutant counselors, therapists and trained volunteers. It is designed to help the lost find themselves and get out of the tangled, personal hedge mazes we often find ourselves in.
Alice replied, rather shyly, "I-I hardly know, Sir, just at present-at least I knew who I was when I got up this morning, but I think I must have been changed several times since then."
Ever feel this way, Empaths or Telepaths? Have trouble sorting your own thoughts and personalities from those you absorb? Many do. Don't handle it alone. There are sensitive, professionals on line to talk to or weekly group sessions with other Psionics scheduled across the country. Just ask Alice.
"If you knew Time as well as I do," said the Hatter, "you wouldn't talk about wasting it. It's him."
How about it, Moleculars? Feeling more like an it than a him (or her)? Having complications with the unnatural state of your abilities or juggling combined powers? Is your identity being impaired? Talk it out. Let this site be your shoulder and help bring you back to the person you truly are inside.
"That's nothing to what I could say if I chose," the Duchess replied, in a pleased tone.
Get tongue-tied, Ferals? Are you a lot brighter than your wild exteriors let on? Feel that you've been treated more like an animal than you deserve? We can help you work through that frustrating rage. Show the world the true soul you see in the looking glass.
The Mock Turtle sighed deeply, and drew the back of one flapper across his eyes. He looked at Alice and tried to speak, but, for a minute or two, sobs choked his voice.
Feeling down more often than not, Elementals? Due to the tremendous forces many of you conduct through your bodies, manic-depressive tendencies are not unusual. Soaring highs and crashing lows with no in between. Balance can be achieved, however. Just take the first step and we'll be there to meet you.
She hastily put down the bottle, saying to herself, "That's quite enough-I hope I sha'n't grow any more-As it is, I can't get out the door-I do wish I hadn't drunk so much!"
Substance abuse is not the answer. If you have found yourself with an addiction and have the courage to deal with it "Alice's Adventures" will be there for support. You are not the only one to fall into this trap.
"But I don't want to go among mad people," Alice remarked.
"Oh, you can't help that," said the Cat: "We're all mad here. I'm mad. You're mad."
Mad, maybe, but not incurable. Call the hotline through My Friend's Bookstore or give us a visit. No one will make you feel small.
"It was much pleasanter at home," thought poor Alice, "when one wasn't always growing larger or smaller, and being ordered about by mice and rabbits. I almost wish I hadn't gone down that rabbit-hole-and yet-and yet-it's rather curious, you know, this sort of life!"
Curious and inspiring, if you let it be. Unlock the doors to Wonderland and let yourself in.
Wuthering Heights
New Mutant romances can be as difficult as Heathcliff and Catherine fumbling on the moors. Many give up rather than face another rejection in life. Using this page will hopefully help lonely souls meet others like themselves, making connections that mean they will no longer have to face the world alone.
It is important to understand that "Wuthering Heights" is not a setup for one-night stands, but a way to find lasting relationships of the heart, whether they are passionate or platonic. Anyone searching for quick physical or lewd couplings will have to do so outside of the My Friend's Bookstore realm. Life is complicated enough.
So, if you're a lone lupine Feral in Quebec who can't locate a mate with similar fangs, if you're a Stealth Molecular from Kansas who doesn't stay visible long enough to meet a nice heat-generating Elemental or if you're simply an isolated Psionic in Rio who'd rather talk to a friend than read his or her thoughts…THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN TRY TO DO SO.
Email your heart's desire to: wutheringheights@myfriendsbookstore.com and let us play matchmaker. Complete confidence guaranteed. Remember, true love is never easy to find, whether you are a New Mutant or not.
Lost Horizon
You have entered the world of Mutant X, a society dedicated to the protection, acceptance and advancement of the genetically different. Please feel free to browse the available titles. There is bound to be one that speaks to you, as is true with all great literature.
My Friend’s Bookstore owner Ruby Bishop and his staff are always on hand to help locate hard-to-find or rare editions for you. They can also take orders and suggestions for books you feel should be in stock.
As a starting place, may we recommend: a vintage volume of Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart” for new Psionic readers; a handsomely rugged copy of London’s “Call of the Wild” for Ferals; the new trade paperback printing of Shakespeare’s play “The Tempest” that should appeal to all you emoting Elementals; and an annotated textbook edition of Ovid’s classic “Metamorphoses” that no Molecular should be without. Mr. Bishop would also like it known that facsimile screenplays of Saroyan’s “Human Comedy” have just been placed on the shelves (in Drama: Film Arts). This has been a much-requested item by our many non-New Mutant clients and we are happy to finally have obtained it for you.
Purchases not necessary, but appreciated. Reading time unlimited, but “sign in” is essential.
Again, welcome.
Good-bye, Mr. Chips
By requesting this title you have placed yourself in the care of the New Mutant Underground. Follow the instructions given to you by any agent who identifies themselves as THE WHITE RABBIT (codename changed twice daily) and prepare to be immediately placed in a local safehouse until relocation can be arranged. As of this moment, your former life no longer exists. All loose ends are no longer yours to tie.
Good luck and move forward as smoothly as possible.
The Human Comedy
My name is Adam. I sponsor this page of the "My Friend's Bookstore" catalogue. Like you, I am not a New Mutant but one who believes that all forms of people are human beings. Only together can we progress as a race into the chaotic future.
By being admitted to this site, you've expressed yourself as a friend to both the outcasts of the world and the unknown. I want to congratulate you on having an open mind and a tremendous amount of courage. Ignorance is the ultimate enemy we are dealing with. Denying the existence of New Mutants or the abominable idea that they can be exterminated will only serve to send mankind back to irretrievable depths. The Children of Genomex are here and cannot be uncreated. We need to embrace them.
There is much you can do to support mutant kind. Do not think that because you lack extra senses or super-abilities you are any less powerful than they are. If anything, you are stronger. The freedom to move and act without observation or suspicion makes you a priceless ally. Pledges of support and understanding are also true gifts to New Mutants that have grown up with no awareness of security. Finally the risks you face (on any level) by taking the stand you've taken are a force beyond any DNA enhancement or the potential of most men. You are true heroes.
There are many ways to contribute to the New Mutant cause. Mutant X, the Underground and My Friend's Bookstore all have branches to use your various talents. I am told that requesting a copy of Samuel Coleridge's "Kubla Khan" on this site accesses financial aid channels but do not think money is the most important element needed in this struggle. Time, intelligence, humor and the ability to share far outweigh a bank statement. I feel that is true in any allegiance.
Incidentally, you might want to check out the Saroyan work this page is named for (I believe there is a film version). It is an excellent illustration of the traits that make us all human. It has very little to do with basic genetics.
Thank-you.
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