Mythmakers

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. (00:00) The Great River(16:30) The Path Along the River(32:22) Fantasy Podcast PromotionFor more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

In today’s episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding sits down with bestselling author Emily J. Taylor to discuss her second novel, The Otherwhere Post (Penguin US / Pushkin Press UK). Set in a world where magic is powered by handwriting, the story follows Maeve, a determined heroine fighting to prove her father’s innocence for a crime that has affected all three realms.Emily shares her journey to becoming a writer, including a brief stop to reflect on the Twilight stories and what made them such a phenomenon. The conversation also explores her creative process and the possibilities of a story centred on an isolated community. For those interested, the poem Julia references is The Night Train by W. H. Auden.You can follow Emily, and her work, on her website https://emilyjtaylorauthor.com/ (00:05) Fantasy Author Interview(13:59) World Building and Setting Periods(24:24) Microcosms in World BuildingFor more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. (00:05) The Author's Journey in Lorien(11:11) Gifts of Love and Creativity(24:33) Galadriel's Gifts of Wisdom and LightFor more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

In 1997, Tolkien’s publishers collected several of his shorter works and published a collection titled ‘Tales from the Perilous Realm’—a BBC radio adaptation soon followed. In this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker unpack the collection, examining each story in turn. Are they all truly set in perilous realms? How do these realms connect to Middle-earth? And which tale is the best entry point for readers who may be hesitant to venture beyond The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings? The episode concludes with a lively discussion on a fitting question: which is the most perilous realm in all of fantasy?(00:05) Tolkien's Tales From Perilous Realm(11:12) Comparing Farmer Giles and Leaf(19:11) Exploring Tolkien's Leaf by Niggle(29:05) Exploring Tolkien's "Smith of Wootton Major"(42:19) Tolkien's Adventures(50:42) Exploring Perilous Realms and Fantasy WorldsFor more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. (00:05) Exploring Lothlorien's Twilight Beauty(20:21) Reflecting on Fellowship Dynamics in Lothlorien(27:39) The Temptation of Galadriel  For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. (00:05) Exploring Lothlorien in Tolkien's Work(15:49) The Power of Lothlorien(26:12) Elven Diplomacy in Lothlorien(41:17) Timelessness and Enchantment in Lothlorien(53:14) Oxford Centre for Fantasy Podcast Promotion  For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. (00:05) Analyzing Chapter 5(12:21) Analyzing Book vs Film Differences(18:34) The Balrog Confrontation Analysis(32:32) Chapter Favorites and Future Plans  For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by. (00:05) Analyzing Chapter 5(12:21) Analyzing Book vs Film Differences(18:34) The Balrog Confrontation Analysis(32:32) Chapter Favorites and Future Plans  For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    (00:05) Journey Through Moria(14:54) The Doors of Moria(31:34) Moria Obstacles and Character Insights(46:20) Dwarf's Death and Elegy   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

If you love Rohan and want to delve into Tolkien’s influences, you’ll enjoy reading William Morris’s 1889 fantasy novel The House of the Wolfings. Join Dr Ingrid Hanson of the University of Manchester as she takes Julia Golding deep into the heart of Mirkwood in today’s episode of Mythmakers. Discover the fabulous female characters, Hall Sun and Wood Sun, along with the landscapes and artefacts that inspired Tolkien. You can explore this text—and other works by Morris—at the Iowa University's Morris Archive: https://morrisarchive.lib.uiowa.edu/exhibits/show/titlesThe Indian story of liberated women mentioned by Ingrid can be read here: https://digital.library.upenn.edu/women/sultana/dream/dream.html   (00:05) William Morris and House of Wolfings(12:08) Exploring William Morris's Fantasy Writing(21:51) Exploring William Morris's Ecological Architecture(30:53) Politics and Fantasy in Morris's World   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    (00:05) Chapter Three(14:46) Journey, Fellowship, and Cultural Insights(25:09) Ancient Lands and Unseen Threats  For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

A fabulous new addition to the world of Tolkien literature is the recently published collection of his poetry. Today on Mythmakers, join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker as they guide you through the highlights and must-read pieces, delving into Tolkien’s remarkable range and versatility. They explore what the collection reveals about his creative processes—did you know that, at one point, there were nine rings for the Elf-lords? The poems capture Tolkien wrangling his ideas as they evolve into their final form. There’s much to learn and discuss—enjoy!  The poems are edited by Christina Scull and Wayne G. Hammond and published by HarperCollins. (00:05) Exploring Tolkien's Poetry Collections(15:36) Evolution of Tolkien's Myth-Making(21:49) Unveiling Tolkien's Poetic Process(30:12) Tolkien's Poetry Evolution and Purpose(37:41) Tolkien's Evolution of Poetic Hope(47:40) Tolkien's Poetry(52:14) Poetry in Fantasy Worlds   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    (00:05) The Council of Elrond Analysis(08:53) Council of Elrond Characters and Politics(20:43) The Council's Decision and Frodo's Offer(32:35) Mythmakers Podcast   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

It’s truly delightful when a world imagined by a dreamy child eventually blossoms into a novel for the adult writer.   In this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding meets with Georgia Channon, who first conceived the idea for her book many moons ago during a school trip to a production of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Georgia shares her journey from stage to page, along with insights into what publishers are currently seeking from authors in this genre. Together, they explore the abundance of portal fantasy stories and discuss particularly what Georgia is doing with hers. Stay tuned to discover where they would both choose to become heroes! (00:05) Author's Journey Into Fantasy Accents(12:52) Exploring Portals and Magical Worlds(23:02) Discovering Heroes in Fantasy Worlds   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    (00:05) Exploring Many Meetings in Middle-earth(11:37) Journey Into Tolkien's Ethereal World(26:01) Character Development in Middle-earth(38:52) Interweaving Poetry and Tolkien's Themes   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

What a breath of fresh air it is to find an academic as passionate about discussing the adaptations of Tolkien works, as he is about Tolkien’s books!   Today, on Mythmakers, in this wide-ranging interview, Julia Golding meets with Professor Nick Groom to discuss his book Twenty-First Century Tolkien. In the first part of their discussion, Nick provided a serious literary critical attention to The Lord of the Rings before moving on to explore its various adaptations. If you’ve not heard of it, you may be intrigued—perhaps even shocked—by the unmade John Boorman treatment, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the others, including Ralph Bakshi’s animated film, the BBC audio drama, as well as Peter Jackson’s films, The Rings of Power, and The War of the Rohirrim. Join us for Part 2 of this fascinating dialog. (00:06) Adapting Tolkien(16:31) Exploring Adaptations of Tolkien's Works(24:05) Examining Rings of Power Adaptations(32:05) Fantasy Adaptations and Lockdown Worlds   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

What a breath of fresh air it is to find an academic as passionate about discussing the adaptations of Tolkien works, as he is about Tolkien’s books!   Today, on Mythmakers, in this wide-ranging interview, Julia Golding meets with Professor Nick Groom to discuss his book Twenty-First Century Tolkien. In the first part of their discussion, Nick provides a serious literary critical attention to The Lord of the Rings before moving on to explore its various adaptations. If you’ve not heard of it, you may be intrigued—perhaps even shocked—by the unmade John Boorman treatment, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the others, including Ralph Bakshi’s animated film, the BBC audio drama, as well as Peter Jackson’s films, The Rings of Power, and The War of the Rohirrim. Join us for Part 1 of this fascinating dialog. (00:05) Author's Analysis of "Flight to the Ford"(14:06) Paths of Hope and History   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Words have the power to bless and to curse. In a fascinating discussion with Dr Eleanor Baker of Oxford University, Julia Golding takes Mythmakers on an exploration of the world of book curses in Eleanor’s Bodleian Library little book called—inevitably enough—Book Curses! From there, we’ll go on to look at the Medieval culture of the book, and the role of magic books and curses in fantasy literature throughout the ages. (00:05) Exploring Book Curses and History(09:02) Magical Elements in Medieval Books(18:08) Power of Curses in Fantasy Literature(29:18) Exploring Magical Elements in Fantasy   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.  (00:05) Author's Analysis of "Flight to the Ford"(14:06) Paths of Hope and History   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Do you want to know the key to the Narnian universe? Today, on Mythmakers, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker take a quick tour around the seven heavens as they discuss C.S. Lewis's book The Discarded Image, as well as the Medieval model, Michael Ward's groundbreaking study, Planet Narnia, and so much more. What other scientific model inspirations have writers found, and where would it be best to live within a Medieval universe? Join the conversation as we find out! Among the books mentioned is Ted Chiang’s Stories of Your Life and Others, available at: https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/ted-chiang/stories-of-your-life-and-others/9781035038596 as well as Cixin Liu’s Three Body Problem: https://torpublishinggroup.com/the-three-body-problem/    (00:05) CS Lewis and the Discarded Image(16:51) CS Lewis and Science(25:22) Planetary Imagery in Narnia(37:07) Lewis(53:30) Fantasy Reimaginings of Medieval Worlds(58:41) Rethinking the Discarded Image   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

You certainly won't want to miss today’s episode of Mythmakers where Julia Golding is meeting with Professor John Holmes from Birmingham University.   John has made a name for himself by giving performances of Tolkien's 1938 lecture on dragons, complete with the magic lantern slides discovered in the archives of Oxford's Natural History Museum. Today, John and Julia will go on to discuss the fantasy writers of the Victorian period, Pre-Raphaelites, William Morris and Ruskin—all important influences on today’s modern fantasy, often mediated via Tolkien. In this discussion’s final lap, John talks about his work taking people into a very special forest—Ruskin Land—and researching their response to fantasy forests read in situ.   To learn more about Birmingham Institute for Forest Research (BIFoR), and to take a virtual tour of Ruskin Land, visit the links below: https://canvas.bham.ac.uk/courses/52405/pages/cross-curricular-climate-change-education https://www.thinglink.com/card/1803482248435991014   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   (00:05) Exploring Tolkien's Dragons Lecture(11:29) Exploring Tolkien's Creative Influence(18:13) Exploring Influences on Tolkien's Fantasy(30:57) Fantasy Authors' Shared Social Critique(35:37) Enchanting Forests in Fantasy Literature

Is this film a hit or miss? Did the New Zealand team, led by Phillippa Boyens, Japanese director Kenji Kamiyama and Executive Producer Peter Jackson, deliver? That's the question that preoccupies Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker today as they dissect their response to The War of the Rohirrim, in the Season 7 debut episode of Mythmakers. Listen in to their nuanced account of the good and less than great parts of the film, and stay tuned for what they believe is the biggest challenge faced by the upcoming movie: The Hunt for Gollum. Do you agree with their star rating? Contact the Oxford Centre for Fantasy and let us know your thoughts!   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   (00:05) War of the Rohirrim Film Review(11:58) Heroic Women and Oral Storytelling(23:46) Animation Challenges in Character Development(32:32) Character Development in the Legend of Helm(39:53) Analyzing Character Development in Film(46:54) Casting Choices in Film Sequels

Season 6 of Mythmakers has been a whirlwind of captivating stories, thought-provoking discussions, and fascinating insights into the world of fantasy and beyond. As we reach the end of this season, we're taking a moment to reflect on some of the standout moments with a collection of clips from five fan-favourite episodes. Join Julia Golding as we journey to revisit a daring Young Adult heist set in a fantastical world, delve into the intersection of poetry and illustrations, and step onto the historic streets of Oxford to uncover the inspirations of C.S. Lewis. We'll dip back into our Sidecast, just as our adventurers are truly setting off, before taking another look at our verdict of The Rings of Power’s second season. Thank you for joining us on this adventure so far—stay tuned as we continue to explore the fantasy genre, hear from a variety of esteemed authors, and so much more in season 7!   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok     (0:00:05) - Fantasy Podcast Wrap-Up and Insights (0:08:03) - Learning and Creativity in Illustration (0:15:29) - Exploring Traditions and Literary Details (0:26:52) - Echoes of the Rings of Power

How does one come up with an original idea for a fantasy story? Hannah Kingsley in her debut novel Soul Hate (due to come out in February 2025) has taken the trope of the ‘soul mate’ and asked the question: 'what if...you had a soul hate?' Join us on today’s episode of Mythmakers as she discusses with Julia Golding the origins of her story and the importance of giving her heroine a job that she felt passionately about. Hannah, being a gifted artist herself, is crafting special editions of the novel with custom spray-painted edges – you’ll want to hear how she came to develop this part of her creativity! For more information about Hannah's incredible art visit https://www.kingdombookdesigns.com   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers 3:05 Soul Hate and Fated Lovers 8:54 Crafting Strong Female Characters 12:13 Politics in Fantasy Worlds 14:28 Exploring Love Triangles 17:28 Real-World Parallels of Soul Hate 19:57 The Writing Process 22:18 Modern Vocabulary in Fantasy 26:20 The Role of Artisans 34:03 Fate in Fantasy Worlds 36:01 Humor in Fantasy Settings

Today, the Mythmakers podcast is setting sail with author Rose Black on a new fantasy pirate adventure for an adult audience: Fated Winds and Promising Seas (available on Hodderscape). Julia Golding discusses with Rose where the idea came from – and it’s not the usual place in this case! In a book about freedom and predestination, they go on to discuss representation in fantasy books and writing from a perspective that might seem not to be your own – how an author has to navigate the shoals of freedom to write the story she feels drawn to create, and reception of that within the world. Finally, they settle on where the best place would be to be rescued by pirates!   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers 2:40 Journey to Becoming an Author 4:40 Exploring Fated Winds and Promising Seas 7:53 Themes of Freedom and Authority 11:37 The Cost of Magic 15:38 Representation in Fantasy 19:07 Inspirations from Pirate Media 23:18 The Influence of Dungeons & Dragons 26:01 Future Writing Projects 27:38 Imagining Fantasy Worlds

What would it be like to be the only human in a family of vampires? This is the dilemma that Helen Glynn Jones' character faces in the first part of her Ravens series: The Last Raven. Helen joins Julia Golding in today’s episode of Mythmakers to discuss the tradition of vampire myths around the world in the places she's lived, and in her own version as she imagines that being human is what makes you the monster. They go on to discuss betrayal as a plotline, coming of age, as well as the experience of being edited. Stay tuned to find out their picks for the best place to be turned into a vampire. To purchase your own copy of The Last Raven visit: https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/the-last-raven-the-ravens-book-1-helen-glynn-jones?variant=40805269798990 For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers 3:32 Journey Through Fantasy Literature 4:20 Exploring Vampire Myths Worldwide 6:37 The Last Raven: Story Insights 12:26 Love, Betrayal, and Vampire Romance 15:06 Age Ranges and Young Adult Fiction 17:47 Coming of Age in Fantasy Stories 21:33 The Impact of Betrayal in Plot 25:51 The Editing Process Uncovered 30:53 Thoughts on Blogging and Writing 34:00 Choosing the Best Fantasy World

Author Tad Williams is well-known for his epic fantasy series, such as The Dragonbone Chair, as well as his sci-fi and urban fantasy works. He joins us today on the Mythmaker's podcast to talk to Julia Golding about The Navigator's Children, his conclusion to a vast epic, this part called The Last King of Osten Ard. This achievement has been compared to Tolkien's legendarium in its ambitious scope, so it is not surprising to hear that Tolkien was one of Tad’s major influences. He tells Julia about how he manages such a complicated, woven plot, how he keeps track, and what steps he takes before getting down to writing, as well as much more. Stick around to hear where would be best for a creation myth in all fantasy!  To learn more about Tad, and to get your own copies of his incredible books, visit https://hodderscape.co.uk/collections/author-tad-williams-pid-86249?_pos=1&_psq=tad+william&_ss=e&_v=1.0   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers11:09 Early Influences on Fantasy Writing26:45 Transitioning to Writing40:02 The Last King of Ostern Ard Series49:21 Music and Storytelling in Fantasy

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:07 A Knife in the Dark 6:33 The Shire's Unusual Cutaway 11:01 Frodo and Strider's Cinematic Shift 20:59 The Midgewater Marshes 27:15 The Approach of the Black Riders 33:39 The Tale of Beren and Luthien 35:02 The Gathering Storm 37:56 Frodo's Bravery and the Ring's Toll

In a perfect fit for the Mythmakers podcast, join us for today’s episode where Julia Golding meets illustrator and author John Hendrix to talk about his entertaining graphic novel: The Mythmakers. This is the story of the friendship between J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, and not only is it a biography of their fellowship, but it also explores in the company of our guides, a lion and a wizard, what the story is and where it comes from. Julia and John conclude by pondering where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place for a cartoonist (and also discuss some of the worst!).   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers 1:21 Childhood Influences and Fantasy Beginnings 4:21 The World of Comics and Graphic Novels 5:28 Journey to Writing Mythmakers 8:33 Exploring Mythmakers Structure 10:31 Visual Inspiration from Oxford 13:23 Mythologizing the Friendship of Lewis and Tolkien 14:46 The Inklings: A Literary Life 18:33 Tension and Dynamics of Creative Friendships 21:39 Perceptions of the Inklings in Academia 23:24 Religious Differences and Their Impact 28:28 The Mythos-Logos Division in Storytelling 31:04 Cartoons in Fantasy Worlds 34:42 Future Projects and Farewell

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:05 Introduction to Fellowship of the Ring 1:07 The Pace of Dialogue 4:08 Strider's True Nature 7:29 Trust and Instinct 9:30 Barleyman's Comic Relief 12:14 The Letter from Gandalf 16:19 Insights into Strider 19:31 The Quest and Its Stakes 22:18 The Power of the Black Riders 24:58 Preparing for the Night 28:44 Safe for the Moment

Mermaids come with some watery baggage, which raises the question: just how does one do a fresh take on this iconic mythical creature? This was the challenge facing Berlie Doherty and Tamsin Rosewell - a writer and illustrator team. Find out their answers to this question in today’s episode of Mythmakers where they’ll be diving into the reinvention of mermaids in their fascinating conversation with Julia Golding. Did you know there are legends of inland mermaids? And where exactly is the best place to be a mermaid in all the fantasy worlds? If you want to find out more about this intriguing topic after listening to the discussion, you can visit Berlie's website at https://berliedoherty.com/new-book-the-seamaidens-odyssey/ and follow Tamsin on Instagram at @hobs_lantern. If you want a signed copy of their book, check out the wonderful https://www.madhatterbookshop.co.uk     For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:10 Underwater Kingdom Journey 2:47 Childhood Inspirations 4:20 Illustrative Styles 7:27 Story Overview 11:43 Sea Maiden Concept 14:12 Evolution of the Sea Maiden 17:39 Themes of Sisterhood 20:44 Collaboration Process 25:27 Artistic Techniques 34:49 Tips for Aspiring Creatives 39:21 Imagining Fantasy Worlds

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok 0:09 Introduction to Bree and the Prancing Pony 5:24 The Journey to the Prancing Pony 12:42 Meeting the Gatekeeper 17:40 Entering the Prancing Pony 20:32 Pippin's Tales and the Stranger 26:34 Frodo's Song and the Ring's Power 30:26 Suspicion Lingers  

Today on Mythmakers, Julia Golding is joined by Professor Simon Horobin who has stepped into C.S. Lewis's shoes at Magdalen College, Oxford, and now he has written a beautiful book detailing Lewis's relationship with the iconic city. Join us as he discusses with Julia the peculiarities of college life in Oxford, the move to Cambridge later in life, Headington and the Kilns, as well as C.S. Lewis as a poet. The discussion ends off by venturing through the wardrobe into different fantasy lands…   Simon's book is available for purchase at https://bodleianshop.co.uk/products/c-s-lewiss-oxford   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:10 Welcome to Mythmakers 3:38 The Legacy of C.S. Lewis 6:12 Exploring C.S. Lewis's Oxford 9:56 Oddities of Magdalen College 12:15 Women in Lewis's Life 15:00 Life at The Kilns 17:04 Lewis's Academic Journey 19:05 Surprising Discoveries in Archives 24:54 Transition to Cambridge 29:41 Oxford's Influence on Fantasy 35:08 Best Fantasy Worlds to Explore

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok     0:06 Introduction to Fog on the Barrow Downs 2:44 Exploring Themes of Renewal 5:35 The Journey Begins 7:28 Warnings Ignored 9:36 The Fog of War 13:38 The Nature of Evil 18:26 The Power of Tom Bombadil 22:14 Shared Visions and Prophecies 23:35 Temptation and Contentment 24:55 Farewell to Tom Bombadil

Hero or Villain? These archetypal characters are the stock-in-trade of the fantasy genre, and so you’ll definitely enjoy this newest poetry anthology compiled by Ana Sampson, an experienced curator of poetry collections, and illustrated by the instantly recognizable pencil of Chris Riddell, multi-award-winning illustrator and former UK Children's Laureate.   Today on Mythmakers, in conversation with Julia Golding, Ana and Chris journey through history and genres, unearthing the gems. They reflect on the poems that inspired them as children, the role of compendiums in nurturing the artistic imagination, and why different approaches are often used to tell the same tale. They also explore the influence of politics on the anthology—and vice versa, and so much more. And if that wasn’t enough, Chris treats us to a live dragon sketch while several poems are read aloud—making this a truly unmissable episode!   Their book, Heroes and Villains: Poems about Legends (Macmillan), is available for purchase now. Credits for the poems read in full are: 'Nan Hardwicke Turns into a Hare' by Wendy Pratt, 'St Margaret of Antioch Speaks' by Jan Dean, 'If...' by James Carter, and 'The Dragons are Hiding' by Brian Moses.   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:10 Welcome to Mythmakers 1:32 Childhood Poems That Shaped Us 5:27 The Lady of Shalott and Lockdown 10:15 The Role of Poetry Anthologies 12:05 Creating the Heroes and Villains Anthology 16:40 Exploring Heroes and Villains Through Poetry 20:2Research Gems in Poetry 36:19 Creative Tips for Aspiring Writers 39:04 Contemporary Issues in Fantasy 43:01 Collaborating with Publishers 46:56 The Intersection of Politics and Fantasy 52:46 Closing Thoughts and Inspiration

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to Tom Bombadil 1:53 Entering the Haven of Tom Bombadil 5:48 Goldberry's Enigmatic Welcome 16:38 The Shift to Storytelling 20:39 Dreams and Nightmares 23:21 A Rainy Day with Tom 26:54 Tom's Tales of Good and Evil 32:15 The Fast Forward of History 34:47 The Harmony of Tom and Goldberry 37:24 The Ring's Power Revealed

Have you enjoyed The Rings of Power Season 2? Join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker on today’s episode of Mythmakers as they offer their thoughts on the latest season of Amazon’s show. After sharing their initial impressions on the production and visual realisation, they delve deeper into the story choices, lore, and characters, before wrapping up with a rating out of 10 rings (what else would it be?). Along the way, they explore some controversial topics—does The Rings of Power have a female character problem, for instance? Have a listen and then let us know your thoughts!   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Welcome to Mythmakers 14:21 Production Values Reviewed 17:34 Storylines and Structure 20:22 Long-Term Storytelling Challenges 23:29 Characters and Performances 59:53 Female Representation Issues

Is it time that we revisit the category of 'New Adult' books again? Kate Dylan's fantasy heist story fits in this category, post YA but written for the reading tastes of the 20-something year old audience who've just graduated out that group.   On today’s episode of Mythmakers, Kate will be engaging in a fascinating discussion with Julia Golding about why the themes of being on the edge, close to shattering, work so well with that age group (and many others). They’ll also discuss queer relationships in novels and how the market has changed since Kate started writing. Think that you know where would be best to stage a heist? Their suggestions may surprise you!   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Welcome to Mythmakers 1:37 The Influence of Young Adult Literature 4:02 Transitioning to Fantasy Writing 8:50 Themes of Betrayal and Growth 12:04 The Heist Novel Unveiled 19:24 Chaos in the Writing Process 25:51 Collaborative Storytelling 27:11 Exploring Queer Representation 32:37 The Value of Art in Fantasy 36:18 Balancing Writing with Daily Life 41:13 Tips for Aspiring Fantasy Writers 46:02 Magic in Fantasy Storytelling 49:09 Heisting in Fictional Worlds

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to Chapter 6 2:01 Preparing for Adventure 9:24 The Old Forest Beckons 18:41 Entering the Enchanted Realm 23:40 Meet Tom Bombadil 27:35 The Escape from Darkness

On today’s episode of Mythmakers, we’re meeting an exciting new writer coming out of the Bay Area. Hayley Dennings, author of This Ravenous Fate, has chosen the Harlem Renaissance for her vampire thriller and love story. Join us as she speaks with Julia Golding about her debut, the authors that inspired her and how she got published—this being her 5th book, an encouraging message for aspiring authors! They go on to discuss race and sapphic characters in fantasy, as well as Black History and much, much more. Hayley also has some great tips for other writers and explains the reading she does in the background to inspire her wonderful prose. Say tuned to find out where you should set up a speakeasy in a fantasy world…   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Welcome to Mythmakers 6:08 The Journey to Publication 11:24 Dedication and Representation 16:26 Exploring Vampirism in the Jazz Era 19:57 Historical Context and Characters 25:33 Writing Style and Process 28:47 Upcoming Works and Future Plans 32:03 Imagining Fantasy Speakeasies

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to An Author's Journey 2:55 Shifting Tones in Tolkien's Writing 5:06 The Pivotal Decision to Leave 10:18 The Nature of the Narrator 12:23 The Conspiracy Revealed 14:34 Frodo's Dream and Its Significance 16:39 Preparing to Enter the Old Forest

Welcome back to Mythmakers for our sixth season!   Megan Whalen Turner began her career in 1996 and is still going strong as her series The Queen's Thief becomes available in the UK and the Commonwealth for the first time. US readers have been enjoying the series for years and she won the Newbury Award and Mythopoeia Award in recognition of her achievements. Take a listen as she tells our host Julia Golding about her career, the books that inspired her, and her link to Oxford fantasy through Dianne Wynne Jones. Megan also shares with us her fascinating insights into her unique process for plotting!    You can catch up with Megan if you are near Bath, England, for the literary festival. Visit the link for more information: https://bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature/   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers Podcast 8:54 The Influence of Diana Wynne-Jones 13:01 Audiobooks and Storytelling 17:55 American Fantasy Influences 23:46 Cultural Storytelling in Fantasy 29:30 The Storytelling Process 35:44 The Mediterranean Influence 44:22 Advice for Aspiring Writers 44:36 Living in a Fantasy World

Season 5 of Mythmakers has been one of many adventures, and as the season comes to a close, we’re going to look back at 5 highlights from our most enjoyed episodes.   Join us as we dive back into the rising popularity of the Romantasy genre, before revisiting the presence of Fantasy at the Oscars. Appropriately, we’ll then steer the conversation towards our favourite Tolkien topics of this season, hearing some of Julia Golding’s travel recommendations when touring the film sites of Middle-earth in New Zealand, then hearing an extract from our sidecast where we’re taking a look at the LotR books through an author’s lens, before closing off by looking back into what we can expect in Peter Jackson and Andy Serkis' upcoming Hunt for Gollum film.   We thank you for accompanying us on this recent season and invite you to stay tuned for our upcoming journeys and discussions in Season 6.   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

As a fitting finale to our 5th season of Mythmakers, we’re ending with Tolkien - namely his newly edited and augmented letters. Take a listen to Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker's 10 out of 10 review of the edition, they’ll break it down to what we learn about Middle-earth, how Middle-earth influenced his view of our real world events, his relationships (particularly with his family) the wars and all aspect to the letters - there's so much to discuss and to enjoy! Stay tuned for two particularly shocking details buried in the letters about hobbits and horses…   If you’re interested in the audio version mentioned, visit the link for a closer look: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Letters-of-J-R-R-Tolkien-Audiobook/B0CTNYDDKT   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers 2:11 Personalized Narration in Audiobook 3:34 Breaking Down Tolkien's Life in Letters 3:54 Tolkien's Views on Creativity 4:45 Insightful Letters: Tolkien vs. Other Literary Collections 5:34 Tolkien's Self-Deprecation and Passion in Letters 6:39 Emotional Range in Tolkien's Letters 8:24 Phases of Tolkien's Correspondents 13:45 Tolkien's Writing Process: Characters and Imagination 15:18 Tolkien's Unrevealed Stories and World Building 16:36 Tolkien's Lens on the World: War and Nature 16:36 Tolkien's Lens on the World: War and Nature (Continued) 23:52 Recommendation to Read Tolkien's Letters 26:56 Tolkien's Fatherly Concern in Letters 28:53 Tolkien's Letter on Faith and Angels 30:42 Tolkien's Reflections on Character Motives 32:04 Gollum's Near-Repentance in Tolkien's Eyes 56:37 Retirement and Lasting Legacy 1:01:06 Shadowfax's Journey to Valinor 1:02:31 Unique Delivery Methods in the Wizarding World

Imagine starting your journey as a fantasy writer in a media storm where you are greeted as the next J K Rowling. That's precisely what faced Samantha Shannon when her first novel The Bone Season was published while she was in her early 20s. Ten years on and an established writer, Samantha has re-edited the book and is celebrating this anniversary by finishing the fifth in the series.   Join us on today’s episode of Mythmakers as she discusses her beginnings as an author, her relationship to Oxford, and how she goes about her writing. You’ll want to hear her fantasy tips and find out her pick for the best place to have ESP! For more information on Samantha visit her website at www.samanthashannon.co.uk and view her works on her publisher’s site at www.bloomsbury.com/uk/author/samantha-shannon   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers 4:20 Revisiting The Bone Season 5:54 Revising the Entire Series 6:31 Cathartic Editing Process 9:00 Coping with Media Expectations 10:36 Navigating Publishing Pressures 14:25 Unveiling the Atmosphere 18:10 Planting Seeds in Oxford 20:19 Finding Light in Darkness 23:54 Finding Family and Courage 25:53 Craft of World Building 35:20 Balancing Multiple Storylines 43:38 Writing Tip: Music Inspiration 45:38 Challenges of Magic Users 47:38 Exploring Different Worlds

Today on Mythmakers, the Oxford Centre for Fantasy meets the winner of the Golden Pencil Prize for the best Dutch children's book of the year, Yorick Goldewijk, as his novel debuts in English. Movies Showing Nowhere, a fascinating middle-grade novel about memories, loss and time travel, is set in a special cinema which takes the hero, Cate, on an unexpected journey. This book will also take Yorick and Julia Golding down some interesting paths as they discuss the story and how we play out real world ideas in fantasy. Join us as they speak about misfits, grief, memory, therapy and so much more, ending off by deciding where in all the fantasy worlds they would go to look back at memories - from Galadriel's Mirror to Dumbledore's Pensieve - be sure to let us know if you agree with their picks!   For more information on Yorick visit his Facebook page at @yorick.goldewijk or follow him on Instagram at @yorickgoldewijk   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers 1:07 Yorick's Childhood Fantasy Influences 3:09 Yorick's Journey to Becoming an Author 6:09 Introduction to "Movies Showing Nowhere" 8:21 Theme of Grief and Embracing Life 13:11 Embracing Weirdness and Being a Misfit 16:20 Yorick's Creative Process with Music 20:57 Starting a Book with a Mood 28:24 Using Fantasy Worlds as Laboratories 29:57 Yorick's Future Book Themes 33:59 Imagining Memories with Extraordinary Minds 36:46 Journeys into Extraordinary Minds and Narnia 39:02 Exploring Bran Stark's Memories in "Game of Thrones" 40:15 Recommendation of "Movies Showing Nowhere"

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction 2:06 Finding Refreshment in Nature 3:57 Tolkien's Discovery Writing 5:51 The Evolution of Sam 7:35 The Humour of Hobbits 8:03 Traversing the Shire 10:53 Elegiac Moment Under the Elm Tree 11:51 Pippin Leading the Way 12:16 Encounter with Farmer Maggot 14:52 Farmer Maggot's Encounter with the Black Rider 17:09 Frodo's Wild Past 20:13 Manners in the Maggot Household

Which was your first Robin? Today on Mythmakers, Julia Golding speaks with author T.K. Hall about Robin Hood and how this tale has changed with the centuries. We take our cue from the beginning of The Fellowship of the Ring where Galadriel says 'History became legend. Legend became myth.' Do all Robin stories fall somewhere along that line? Tim has offered, in his version, a mythic Robin connected to the wild wood. Listen in to find out how the story was inspired by a trip up the Amazon, as Julia and Tim discuss just how difficult is it to write a big fantasy trilogy. Tim will take us through his struggles since the first book was published in 2014 – as we know, writing isn't easy! We’ll end on a lighter note by discussing where Robin Hood might best fit in another fantasy world. For more information on Shadow of the Wolf and its sequels, Dark Fire and Wildwood Rising, visit Tim's website at https://tkhallauthor.com/ and sign up for his newsletter at https://tkhallauthor.substack.com/   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers Podcast 0:53 Tim's First Encounters with Robin Hood 15:31 Tim's Struggles with the Second Book 16:47 Challenges of Writing a Trilogy 24:41 Influence of Greek Myths on Transformation 26:37 Robin's Transformation and Relationship with Nature 32:18 Handling Violence in the Story 33:56 Tim's Approach to Planning the Trilogy 35:48 David Fickling's Writing Wisdom 37:17 Learning to Allow Words to Flow 38:21 Publication Dates for Parts Two and Three 41:11 Imagining Robin Hood in Other Fantasy Worlds

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

One of the things we love most is encouraging new voices in fantasy - and so on today’s episode of Mythmakers, we are delighted to meet Liz Hyder, author of award-winning Bearmouth and forthcoming The Twelve (coming October 2024 from Pushkin Press). The Twelve is a wonderful YA fantasy adventure set in Pembrokeshire Wales, it is a gripping mystery and a delightfully poetic read with a heart for the environment and the kids who don't quite fit in with other teens. Join us to hear Liz's journey to being a writer, the books she recommends and the processes she follows.  For more information on Liz and her works visit https://www.lizhyder.co.uk   For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok   0:00 Introduction to MythMakers Podcast 1:22 Early Influences and Gateway Books 2:50 Discovering Tolkien and Alan Garner 5:17 Alan Garner's Influence and Ongoing Inspiration 9:29 Writing Apprenticeship and Novel Drafting 11:15 Letting Go of Published Works and Moving Forward 12:30 Introduction to "The 12" and its Setting 14:55 Comparisons to Other Fantasy Writers 16:48 Personal Connection to Wales and Manorbeer 21:44 Setting the Story at the Turn of the Millennium 26:55 Loneliness and Isolation 30:37 Childhood Bullying Experiences 33:52 Characters Finding Connection 34:55 Patterns and Themes Emergence 36:48 The Empowerment of Editing 40:21 The Complex Villain 44:42 Collaboration with Artist Tom de Fresten 46:21 Caravan Holiday Destination: Narnia

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.    For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit: Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok