Worldbuilding can be one of the most fun and exciting parts of writing. Night Buddies, author Sands Hetherington, wanted John’s world to feel familiar but not too particular. While some people guess the action is set in New York City, Sands says, “I realize it has NYC aspects, but I just wanted any big city like Superman’s Gotham. I read somewhere that fiction has the advantage of presenting universal things rather than the merely particular, so who was I to argue?”
The Night Buddies universe includes several go-to spots for programs and adventures. John and Crosley visit these places in book four, Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264.
Degraffenreidt House: The action begins with a school bus that may or may not be on the Degraffenreidt porch, along with a brown lizard loogie.
Ballpark: John and Crosley use the ballpark near John’s home to launch their racing blimps.
Zoo: Some of John’s and Crosely’s favorite friends reside at the Zoo, and it was once home to Crenwinkle’s private office and Night Buddies Headquarters.
World’s Only Pineapple Cheesecake Factory: Home of Big Foot Mae and Jones, the machine that makes the best food in the world.
Old Iguana Lair: These underground tunnels were once home to the evil iguana gang until John and Crosley blasted it with cream cheese in Program Two. Now Crenwinkle’s new home.
All-Night Racing Blimp Emporium: Exactly what it says it is. The place to get outfitted with a new balloon in an emergency.
North Park: A park surrounded by skyscrapers where you’ll find Rodney Oglesby and his hot dog stand, and Big Huge Lonnie, who sells pineapple cheesecake.
The Dump: The new hangout of the iguana gang.
All-Night Drugstore: The place to buy supplies for programs.
We can’t wait to share John’s and Croseley’s wild new adventures with you! Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264 will be out this spring!