Several SF blogs are reporting that Baen Books publisher Jim Baen has had a stroke and is now in the hospital. Most of them have gotten it from Steve Barnes; I’ve seen the general story confirmed elsewhere by someone who would be in a position to know. Apparently there may be a further announcement regarding his condition later tonight.
This is all I know personally at the moment. Needless to say, I’m thinking good thoughts for him, his family, friends and employees.
Update, 9pm: This was just posted in Baen’s Bar by Baen author Julie Cochrane:
Okay, people, here’s what’s going on.
Jim Baen is in the ICU after a stroke, it is serious, Toni and a relative are there with him. Now you know as much as we do about his condition.
Baen Books is functioning under the very detailed emergency plans that Jim has in place.
Please don’t send cards or flowers. Please do send whatever prayers are appropriate to your faith.
When we know more, we’ll let you know.
Thanks,
Julie
Update 11:21pm: Another message from Baen’s Bar, this time from Baen editor Toni Weisskopf:
Dear Barflies
I’m sorry to have to announce that Jim Baen suffered a stroke on Monday, and has been in the hospital ever since. His condition is serious, but it’s too early for any prognosis as to how he’ll fare from here on in.
His family has arrived in NC, and are with him in the hospital. I’ve been to see him, as have other members of Baen’s staff and his friend David Drake. In the meantime, so far as Baen Books is concerned, our plans continue on schedule.
The business is fine, we’re all simply very concerned about Jim.