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In a world competing for our attention, our guest this week admits: “It's probably harder to read novels now than it ever was.” But their value cannot be overstated. The novel's unique humanity, its careful and open treatment of the human experience, helps us to develop a sympathetic imagination, tuning our hearts and minds in a way that non-fiction argument simply cannot. Christopher Scalia, author of 13 Novels Conservatives Will Love (but Probably Haven't Read), makes the case that it is a distinctly conservative interest to explore the Western tradition through fiction. Recommendations in hand, he invites adults to refresh their reading list with novels—from the very inception of the form up to the present. Chapters: 1:47 The great book rut 4:11 Novels: the medium of recent Western tradition 5:30 The 18th-century bildungsroman 9:47 “Conservative” themes 16:18 The American dream in My Ántonia 22:39 Miraculous realism in Peace Like a River 29:02 Acknowledging the existence of evil 31:44 Wonder and encounter over strict interpretation 37:03 Revisiting works from your school years 38:47 Why narrative works 42:01 Books that nearly made the cut Links: 13 Novels Conservatives Will Love (but Probably Haven't Read) by Christopher Scalia Christopher J. Scalia at American Enterprise Institute The History of Rasselas by Samuel Johnson (1759) Evelina by Frances Burney (1778) Waverley by Sir Walter Scott (1814) The Blithedale Romance by Nathaniel Hawthorne (1852) Daniel Deronda by George Eliot (1876) My Ántonia by Willa Cather (1918) Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston (1937) The Girls of Slender Means by Muriel Spark (1963) The Children of Men by P. D. James (1992) Peace Like a River by Leif Enger (2001) Gilead by Marilynne Robinson (2004) The Road by Cormac McCarthy (2006) How I Won a Nobel Prize: A Novel by Julius Taranto (2023) Also on the Forum: Heights Forum Book Reviews On Reading Literature by Joseph Bissex Some Summer Reading Recommendations for Teachers by Tom Cox Modern Literature: On Curating the Contemporary featuring Mike Ortiz Guiding Our Boys through Modern Literature featuring Joe Breslin and Lionel Yaceczko Featured opportunities: Teaching Essentials Workshop at The Heights School (June 16-20, 2025) Convivium for Teaching Men at The Heights School (November 13-15, 2025)
On this episode of Currently Reading, Kaytee and Meredith are discussing: Bookish Moments: reading retreats, one finished and one scheduled Current Reads: all the great, interesting, and/or terrible stuff we've been reading lately Deep Dive: we boss some more TBRs The Fountain: we visit our perfect fountain to make wishes about our reading lives Show notes are time-stamped below for your convenience. Read the transcript of the episode (this link only works on the main site) . . . . 1:16 - Our Bookish Moments Of The Week 7:18 - Our Current Reads 7:32 - Finders Keepers by Stephen King (Meredith) 9:37 - Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King 10:24 - Holly by Stephen King 12:17 - The Stand by Stephen King 12:18 - The Shining by Stephen King 12:55 - The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon (Kaytee) 17:24 - Poirot: The Greatest Detective in the World by Mark Aldridge (Meredith) 20:46 - Night Wherever We Go by Tracey Rose Peyton (Kaytee) 24:54 - Victorian Psycho by Virginia Feito (Meredith) 28:58 - Mrs. March by Virginia Feito 29:30 - The Lost Library by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead (Kaytee) 31:08 - CR Season 5: Episode 25 31:10 - The Candymakers by Wendy Mass 31:12 - CR Season 3: Episode 41 31:14 - When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead 31:27 - Bob by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead 33:08 - Boss My TBR From Emily 33:45 - Sweep by Jonathan Auxier 33:48 - My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman 33:52 - Station Eternity by Mur Lafferty 33:54 - S by J.J. Abrams and Doug Dorst 33:58 - Vicious by V.E. Schwab 34:18 - The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune 34:20 - A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab 34:23 - Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend 34:25 - The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman 34:27 - The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall 36:38 - Schuler Books From Bethany 40:38 - Murder at Gulls Nest by Jess Kidd (releases April 8, 2025) 40:42 - The Last Party by Claire Mackintosh 40:45 - Out by Natsuo Kirino 40:47 - Baby X by Kira Peikoff 40:50 - The Stolen Child by Ann Hood 41:03 - Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray 41:09 - The Wedding People by Alison Espach 41:12- The Strange Case of Jane O. by Karen Thompson Walker 44:55 - The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker 45:17 - Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer 45:47 - I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger 46:17 - Virgil Wander by Leif Enger 47:30 - Meet Us At The Fountain 48:25 - I wish people would utilize our website for the plethora of things it offers. (Meredith) 49:46 - The Candymakers by Wendy Mass 49:49 - When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead 50:17 - I wish for a “find all and replace” option for books. (Kaytee) Support Us: Become a Bookish Friend | Grab Some Merch Shop Bookshop dot org | Shop Amazon Bookish Friends Receive: The Indie Press List with a curated list of five books hand sold by the indie of the month. March's IPL comes to you from our tried and true partner, An Unlikely Story in Plainville, MA. Love and Chili Peppers with Kaytee and Rebekah - romance lovers get their due with this special episode focused entirely on the best selling genre fiction in the business. All Things Murderful with Meredith and Elizabeth - special content for the scary-lovers, brought to you with the behind-the-scenes insights of an independent bookseller From the Editor's Desk with Kaytee and Bunmi Ishola - a quarterly peek behind the curtain at the publishing industry The Bookish Friends Facebook Group - where you can build community with bookish friends from around the globe as well as our hosts Connect With Us: The Show: Instagram | Website | Email | Threads The Hosts and Regulars: Meredith | Kaytee | Mary | Roxanna Production and Editing: Megan Phouthavong Evans Affiliate Disclosure: All affiliate links go to Bookshop unless otherwise noted. Shopping here helps keep the lights on and benefits indie bookstores. Thanks for your support!
In this episode, Russ sits down with Dr. D. Nathan Phinney, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Northwestern College, to explore the intersection of leadership, service, and faith. Dr. Phinney shares his journey from faculty member to administrator, reflecting on the importance of humility, patience, and seeing leadership as an opportunity to serve others with grace.The two discuss key leadership principles, including taking the long view in decision-making, embracing trials as opportunities for growth, and fostering a culture of integrity and equity. Dr. Phinney also shares insights on the evolving landscape of higher education and the role of faith in shaping effective leadership. Whether you're an aspiring or seasoned leader, this episode offers meaningful lessons on leading with purpose, wisdom, and a servant's heart.Podcast recommendation: Future You with Jeff Selingo and Michael Horn, At the Table with Patrick Lencioni Book recommendations: Godwin by Joseph O'Neill, I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger, The Ballot and the Bible by Kaitlyn Schiess
It's Valentine's Day! To mark the occasion, Big Books and Bold Ideas is dipping into the archives to focus on love — and not just romantic love. This show highlights love of all kinds: familial love, love between friends, even the love of books. We start with Leif Enger, who joined host Kerri Miller in Red Wing last June to talk about his novel, “I Cheerfully Refuse.” Enger's latest book is dystopian in nature, but at its heart, it's a love story. We then dip into Miller's conversation with British-Nigerian author Ore Agbaje-Williams, whose subversive and wickedly funny novel, "The Three of Us,” delves into love between friends. Is it possible our friendships are more foundational than the bonds we form with romantic partners? We end with Jedidiah Jenkins and his memoir, “Mother, Nature.” It recounts a five-thousand-mile road trip he and his mother took to retrace the route his parents traversed in the 1970s as they walked across America. It sounds sentimental. But it's really Jedidiah's attempt to reconcile two conflicting truths: that his mother loves him completely and that she does not accept that he's gay.If you want to hear the complete conversation from any of today's authors, click the links above or look for the episodes in your favorite podcast.
We'll hear from Wisconsin Conservation Voters about the significance of the new president pulling the US out of the Paris Climate Accords. Long story short: In one way, we're “on our own,” but on the other hand there's always been a lot that individuals can do to minimize impact on our fragile climate. Another solo endeavor is at the heart of a segment with author Laura Bird, as she returns with more recommended reading for, as the poem says, the bleak midwinter. Forty Acres Deep by Michael Perry, A Winter's Rime by Carol Dunbar and Cheerfully I Refuse by Leif Enger. Laura also talks about some books for the warmer months coming soon: The Snowbirds by Christina Clancy, Bummer Camp by Ann Garvin, True North by Andrew J. Graff UpNorthNews with Pat Kreitlow airs on several stations across the Civic Media radio network, Monday through Friday from 6-8 am. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X, and Instagram to keep up with Pat & the show! Guests: Kristin Lyerly, Salina Heller, Laura Bird
This week, Betty reviews Leif Enger's newest book Virgil Wander. Enger is a master storyteller and this book does not disappoint.
In this episode, Jenn and Kelsey are joined by award-winning author Leif Enger to chat about his latest book. Part romance, part nautical adventure, part love letter to stories, this sweetly hopeful piece of dystopian fiction has it all! You'll cheerfully refuse to put this one down!
Episode 150! 6th Anniversary! October 10, 2024 On the Needles 1:05 ALL KNITTING LINKS GO TO RAVELRY UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. Please visit our Instagram page @craftcookreadrepeat for non-Rav photos and info Weather or Knot Scarf by Scott Rohr, HolstGarn Coast in Butterfly, Black, Charcoal, Silver Grey, Wisteria, Freesia, Passion Flower OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams, Destination Yarn Postcard in Yosemite Fall SHaGS by Sarah Jordan, Fibernymph DyeWorks Mountain Tweed BFL in A Game for All Seasons (pumpkin contrast, pink/purple/blue/red/orange/green stripes, Simultaneous Heel Flap and Gusset Socks)-- DONE!! Peace and Joy socks by KnittenKristen, Gauge DyeWorks Trifecta Fingering in Jack o'lantern with pumpkin mini Fleetwood sweater by Tanis Lavallee, Teal Torch Knits DK in mermaid gradient Islesburgh Toorie by The Doull Family, Jamieson's of Shetland Shetland Spindrift (ink, sherbert pink, pumpkin, purple, parma gentian Colorwork Cuff Club by Summer Lee, Three Irish Girls Adorn Sock in Elixir (2010! Carpe yarnem!) On the Easel 18:35 Seascape gift Calendar of favorite things Field Guides–collectibles! Cloud studies On the Table 23:24 miso sweet potato and broccoli bowl – smitten kitchen Japanese Sweet Potatoes with Tofu and Gochujang Butter Carolina Gelen's Butter Beans Alla Vodka Cabbage Stir-fry with peanut butter from DALS Leek & Cheddar scone (underbaked) Smoothies for the heat Broccoli with Beef–premarinated the beef with corn starch slurry Veg protein bread–which I do NOT recommend. On the Nightstand 34:21 We are now a Bookshop.org affiliate! You can visit our shop to find books we've talked about or click on the links below. The books are supplied by local independent bookstores and a percentage goes to us at no cost to you! Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer Bundt Instrument by Nancy Warren (audio) The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier Bright Sword by Lev Grossman State of Paradise by Laura van den Berg The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz (audio) When the Killing's Done by T.C. Boyle The Hunter by Tana French Virgil Wander by Leif Enger On Reflection 58:50 Needles 43 projects last year and only at 24 this year? Lots of gnomes, goodly amount of gifts. More process/KALs? But some super happy making sweaters (ilha, gridlines, 3 summer tops) Dark Academia got most likes Cortney loved: Monica's Bay Area Yarn Crawl coverage, the Explicate Hat by Hunter Hammersen, Coloring Book Raglan by Aimeeshermakes, and Dark Academia sweater by River Road Knits. Easel Sheep butter mold from last year anni episode Bird and pb London one: big ben, fox, typewriter, pretzel, wine Cortney is happy with these creations: last summer's bird prize, annual Gouachevember, tiny typewriter for the SFPL tiny art show. Table Full veg! No kids! Cortney noticed: how the podcast continues to ignite cooking projects, be they low-sodium, less meat, more mushrooms. nightstand 125 books! +41 last year pre-anniversary Audio, foreign, cant keep away from challenges Sue grafton! Christmas/holiday books Better idea what's going to annoy me even if i cant keep away from it Fresh water for flowers by Valerie Perrin I cheerfully refuse by leif enger Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez Cortney finally figured out: her genre of choice! Environmenal/eco fiction!! Where the environment IS a character, or an important feature. Books like: The Light Pirate by Lucy Brooks-Dalton and I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger. Also, alway happy to read a well-written romance or witchy story.
Jen Oshman joins Hunter and Autumn on the podcast today to discuss her book Cultural Counterfeits: Confronting 5 Empty Promises of Our Age and How We Were Made for So Much More. In today's culture, women and girls are influenced by idols that promise purpose and meaning for their lives―outward beauty and ability, sex, abortion, and gender fluidity. Within the church, women may elevate good things like marriage and motherhood to the status of idolatry. Ultimately, these idols are hollow and leave women feeling unsettled, but where should they turn instead?In Cultural Counterfeits, Jen encourages women to reject these idols' empty, destructive promises and embrace real hope and peace in Jesus, calling them to recognize their unshakable and eternal identities in him.Resources mentioned in this episode:Cultural Counterfeits: Confronting 5 Empty Promises of Our Age and How We Were Made for So Much More by Jen OshmanIt's Good to be a Girl by Jen and Zoe OshmanKing: A Life by Jonathan EigVirgil Wander by Leif EngerHow to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen by David BrooksThe Rise of Christianity by Rodney StarkDominion by Tom HollandThe Case Against the Sexual Revolution by Louise Perry
This amazing story is told through the eyes of Reuben Land (aka Rube), the middle child in a motherless family living in the cold Midwest. He suffers greatly from asthma, adores his older brother, Davy (16 years old) and his younger sister, Swede (8+ she has a birthday– definitely one of the coolest siblings we've ever met from the pages of a book). Jeremiah Land is a father raising three kids on his own, but his full plate gets unbelievably fuller when life takes a disastrous turn. After he defends a girl being accosted by two thugs a downward spiral begins. Jeremiah's non-negotiable morning routine is his daily time in God's Word which gives him peace and guidance as he faces the trials and troubles life throws his way. Many lines flow like a cool stream but one that stuck with me was, “Fair is whatever God wants it to do.” Please join us as we recap Peace Like a River by Leif Enger, a beautiful book following the Land family through laughter, heartache, and healing. How blessed we were to meet this family! What a treasure!
“I Cheerfully Refuse” is Leif Enger's latest novel set in a not-too-distant America. A tale of a bereaved and pursued musician embarking under sail on a sentient Lake Superior in search of his departed deeply beloved bookselling wife.
Nate, Cody, and special guest Luke Rosamilia review Leif Enger's latest novel, I Cheerfully Refuse. The first 30 minutes of the episode are spoiler-free, then we dive into plot details.
“Probably doomed and perplexingly merry.” That's how Leif Enger describes one of the characters in his new novel, I Cheerfully Refuse. While the story brings words like dystopian and apocalyptic to mind, it bears witness to a deep sense of hope and even optimism. How and why? That's the topic of this episode of The Russell Moore Show featuring Enger. Moore and Enger talk about what inspired I Cheerfully Refuse, including classic tales like The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe. They talk about how Enger explores despair in fiction and the real world, the nuances of suicidal behavior, and how to combat the unbearable overwhelm caused by a 24-hour news cycle. They discuss Enger's writing process, how religion emerges in his life and books, and where the two differ in their understanding of evangelism. Tune in for a gracious, rich episode that turns our eyes toward the light that the darkness will not overcome. Resources mentioned in this episode include: I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger Leif Enger The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis “A Weird, Wonderful Conversation with Kim Stanley Robinson” “The Story of Orpheus and Eurydice” Walker Percy Garrison Keillor David Copperfield by Charles Dickens Zero at the Bone: Fifty Entries Against Despair by Christian Wiman “Clergy on the Rocks” The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron Do you have a question for Russell Moore? Send it to questions@russellmoore.com. Click here for a trial membership at Christianity Today. “The Russell Moore Show” is a production of Christianity Today Executive Producers: Erik Petrik, Russell Moore, and Mike Cosper Host: Russell Moore Producer: Ashley Hales Associate Producers: Abby Perry and McKenzie Hill Director of Operations for CT Media: Matt Stevens Audio engineering by Dan Phelps Video producer: Abby Egan Theme Song: “Dusty Delta Day” by Lennon Hutton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In Ep. 172, Susie Boutry (@NovelVisits), Catherine Gilmore (@GilmoreGuide), and I are together for the first time on the big show to catch up on our 2024 reading — so far! We talk about the current publishing landscape, what books are topping bestseller lists to date, and our personal reading as it stands halfway through the year. We share our stats and talk about expectations and hopes for the remainder of the year. Plus, we each share our TOP 5 books and our biggest disappointments so far. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. The Bookish Landscape [1:51] Books Mentioned James by Percival Everett [4:00] The Women by Kristin Hannah [4:14] Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder by Dav Pilkey [4:22] A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas [5:00] House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas [5:01] A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas [5:02] Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros [5:15] Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros [5:16] Atomic Habits by James Clear [5:17] Icebreaker by Hannah Grace [5:26] Our Personal Reading for 2024 (So Far) [6:59] Books Mentioned Medea by Eilish Quin [8:12] Sociopath by Patric Gagne, PhD [8:12] The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley [8:13] River East, River West by Aube Rey Lescure [8:15] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [11:53] In Memoriam by Alice Winn [13:33] The Measure by Nikki Erlick [16:03] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [16:04] Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver [16:05] Our Top Five (So Far) [16:49] Sarah Leaving by Roxana Robinson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [19:18] Victim by Andrew Boryga | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:50] Real Americans by Rachel Khong | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:05] Margo's Got Money Trouble by Rufi Thorpe | Amazon | Bookshop.org [40:16] The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (July 2, 2024) | Amazon | Bookshop.org[48:32] Susie How We Named the Stars by Andrés N. Ordorica | Amazon | Bookshop.org[20:44] Wolf at the Table by Adam Rapp | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:50] Nuclear War: A Scenario by Annie Jacobsen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:46] Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:28] Women and Children First by Alina Grabowski | Amazon | Bookshop.org[50:52] Catherine James by Percival Everett | Amazon | Bookshop.org [22:43] Mercury by Amy Jo Burns | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:39] The Women by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:12] The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:31] I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:46] Other Books Mentioned Shiner by Amy Jo Burns [30:13] Cinderland by Amy Jo Burns [31:23] Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khong [33:14] The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo [44:16] Long Bright River by Liz Moore [48:59] The Hunter's Daughter by Nicola Solvinic [49:28] No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister [51:37] The Road to Dalton by Shannon Bowring [51:40] Virgil Wander by Leif Enger [54:59] The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton [55:15] The Iliad by Homer [55:36] Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [55:37] The Road by Cormac McCarthy [55:39] Our Biggest Disappointments (So Far) [56:27] Sarah Everyone On This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [56:35] Sandwich by Catherine Newman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:45] Susie After Annie by Anna Quindlen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [58:01] The Great Divide by Cristina Henríquez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:01:17] Catherine Family Family by Laurie Frankel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [59:01] Lies and Weddings by Kevin Kwan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [1:02:00] Other Books Mentioned Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson [56:46] Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret by Benjamin Stevenson (October 22, 2024) [57:17] We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman [59:51]
Bret Lott knows how to make a woman cry. Possibly a man, too, but I'm not sure. I know he's cried (sobbed, he admitted) when reading Leif Enger's book, Peace Like a River. I already liked Bret Lott but that made me like him even more. Bret Lott, award-winning author of now 16 books (both fiction and non-fiction) didn't start out to become a writer and, in fact, met obstacles along the way. I'm glad he persevered; if you've read Jewel, one of Oprah's Book Club selections, then I'm sure you're glad as well. He wanted to ride a horse and be a Park Ranger. Grateful that didn't pan out. Fun sidenote: Since I'm also from Southern California, it was a delight to find out that Bret used to work at Knott's Berry Farm at the candy apple booth and once-a-month he made waffles for Mr. Knott. Bret is giving away a signed copy of his latest book out this month entitled: GATHER THE OLIVES, On Food and Hope and the Holy Land - comment below or on social media to be entered! Born in Los Angeles in 1958, Lott grew up in Buena Park, CA and Phoenix, AZ before returning to California to live in Huntington Beach, CA. He met and married his wife of 40 years, Melanie Swank Lott, at First Baptist Church of Huntington Beach/Fountain Valley. A graduate of Cal State, Long Beach(1981), Lott headed to Massachusetts for graduate school at UMass Amhurst. He received his MFA in 1984 and landed his first teaching position at Ohio State Univ. In 1986, Lott joined the English Department at the College of Charleston, where he is now a tenured professor and director of the new MFA program and leads writers retreats to Italy. Find out more about his writing retreats here: https://bretlottwriting.com Be sure to comment below to be entered to win: Gather the Olives. Some gems: The difference between a good writer and a bad writer: the bad writer says, "Here I am, I have something to say." The good writer writes a good story and you're not aware he or she even exists. I write to try and understand things, why people do what they do and what happened to their lives. I shared a short story with a girl I liked. She wasn't impressed. I knew right then that I loved her. Jewel was based on my grandmother's life. She had 6 kids and the 6th, my aunt, was Down Syndrome. You're given what you're given in life; the writer's job and joy is to write the pages torn from that life and try to understand it better. The best art fills us with wonder and glory and mystery and beauty which are all manifestations of God.
Dystopian novels aren't known for being hopeful.But that's exactly what Leif Enger brings to the genre with his new book, “I Cheerfully Refuse.” The beloved Minnesota author joined MPR News host Kerri Miller at the Sheldon Theatre in Red Wing on June 4 for a special “on the road” version of Talking Volumes. Their conversation revolved around books: the unpredictable journey of writing them, the sometimes haphazard way of finding them, the way a good book leaves a mark that cannot be erased. As Enger's protagonist Rainy says, “I banged and barged through dozens and hundreds of books. Did I understand it? Not by half, but when it thunders you know your chest is shaking.” Talking Volumes with Leif Enger They also touched on how to maintain hope when the world around you feels like it's going up in flames. “I Cheerfully Refuse” is set in the “near future” when climate change, wealth concentration and religious zealots who are proudly illiterate flourish. But Rainy and his cherished wife, Lark, “refuse apocalypse in all its forms and work cheerfully against it.” When tragedy strikes, and Rainy is forced to set out in a small sailboat on a near-sentient Lake Superior, hoping to reunite with Lark, the quest unfolds. Spoiler alert: Despair never wins. Guest:Leif Enger is the author of many books, including the 2001 breakout hit, “Peace Like a River.” His new novel is “I Cheerfully Refuse.” Before he became an author, Enger worked as a reporter for MPR News. He lives in Duluth with his wife, Robin. Subscribe to Big Books and Bold Ideas with Kerri Miller on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, RSS or anywhere you get your podcasts.Subscribe to the Thread newsletter for the latest book and author news and must-read recommendations.
Elyssa and her guest Erin share the books, resources and other details about their latest “Behind the Page” event. Here are the resources and book titles they discussed or mentioned in this podcast. Adventure Books James by Percival Everett Raiders of the Lost Heart by Jo Segura Cozy Mysteries A Bean to Die For by Tara Lush (A Coffee Lover's Mystery #4) Peril in Pink by Sydney Leigh Nonfiction Books The Real Hoosiers: Crispus Attucks High School. Oscar Robertson, and the Hidden History of Hoops by Jack McCallum A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks by Dave Gibbins Paranormal Books Bride by Ali Hazelwood Emily Wilde's Map of the Otherlands by Heather Fawcett (Emily Wilde #2) RomCom Books Funny Story by Emily Henry The Break-Up Tour by Emily Wibberkey and Austin Siegemund-Broka Books that People Shared The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane Virgil Wander by Leif Enger (author coming to Wild Geese Bookshop this summer) The Librarian Spy by Madeline Martin Iron Lake by William Kent Krueger The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles Yellowface by R.F. Kuang Greymist Fair by Francesca Zappia The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison No One Can Know by Kate Alice Marshall The Warm Hands of Ghosts by Katherine Arden Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt The Little Liar by Mitch Albom (from last time) Shark Heart by Emily Habeck (from last time) Resources Talked About Talpa Search - https://www.pageafterpage.org/what-should-i-read-next Staff Picks and Book Lists - https://www.pageafterpage.org/staff-picks E-Books and E-Audiobooks - https://www.pageafterpage.org/e-books-e-audio-downloadable-movies
Today's Stories Are Soul Food episode covers two new dystopian tales, a book and a show. The book is Leif Enger's "I Cheerfully Refuse", which Brian cheerfully despised for Leif's overly luminous characters and bass-playing giant protagonist. The show is Amazon Prime's "Fallout," which Nate skipped his way through, watching the innocence of the virginal protagonist be stripped from her episode by episode through violence, immorality, and (apparently) cannibalism. Nate talks about how the show's potential was ruined because the director, Jonathan Nolan, had only one trick: take innocence and corrupt it. Beyond that, the show never gets beyond the video game logic which bounds it. Brian asks why the destruction of the innocent seems to be the theme of most postapocalyptic fiction, and the guys talk their way through Margaret Atwood, The Road, Mad Max, and other tales of scientific dystopia. Why do we love such stories? Brian answers that it's because our lives are so easy. Listen to the episode to see if Nate agrees... #SASF #StoriesAreSoulFood #Books #Movies #NDWilson #JonathanNolan #Fallout #AmazonPrime #ICheerfullyRefuse #LeifEnger #DystopianSciFi #Postapocalypse #Innocence
Leif Enger writes novels about good people living through bad times. His new book, I Cheerfully Refuse, epitomizes what the Los Angeles Tines calls Enger's “musical, sometimes magical and deeply satisfying kind of storytelling.” In this episode, Leif Enger and Jonathan Rogers talk about dystopian fiction; courage, literacy, and hope; and the bass guitar.Support the show: https://therabbitroom.givingfuel.com/memberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hannah has absconded to New York City, but no one will go to the Beatrix Potter exhibit with her. Such a shame. No matter! We're fired up about the Newburyport Literary Festival, and ready to talk books, starting with a recap of Leigh Bardugo's brand-new "The Familiar," which Sam has decided he likes quite a bit. Maybe not quite as much as both of us like "The Secret Commonwealth," but not everyone can be Philip Pullman. Dude is just unparalleled in his ability to ask giant questions (religion! fascism!) with effortless storytelling. Not sure Sam would say the same about Christine Ma-Kellams, whose debut novel, "The Band," is among the strangest books he's ever read and he's not quite sure what to make of it. If you at least know what we mean when we say "K-Pop," you might be into it. But Hannah is super into "I Cheerfully Refuse," the latest from Leif Enger and a novel that offers a bit of hope-punk future along with multiple sentence that just hit you right in the chest. Finally, we wrap with a look at John Le Carre's "Call for the Dead," which is a George Smiley novel, and Sam now knows that Smiley is, indeed, his greatest recurring character. If you haven't read a book from 1961 in a while, give it a shot. It's a good way to get influencer culture off the palate.
I do enjoy our regular new books show with Bethanne Patrick, the astonishingly widely read book critic of Los Angeles Times. For April, she recommends freshly published books by Salman Rushdie, Erik Larsen, Amor Towles, Mohamed Amer Meziane, Patric Gagne & Leif Enger. Of these, she picks Leif Enger's new novel, I Cheerfully Refuse, as the best book for April. But I'm so intrigued by Mohamed Amer Meziane's The States of the Earth, that I've already booked him to appear on the show. I'd also like to get Patric Gagne on KEEN ON - after all, who wouldn't want a psychopath on their show?Bethanne Patrick maintains a storied place in the publishing industry as a critic and as @TheBookMaven on Twitter, where she created the popular #FridayReads and regularly comments on books and literary ideas to over 200,000 followers. Her work appears frequently in the Los Angeles Times as well as in The Washington Post, NPR Books, and Literary Hub. She sits on the board of the PEN/Faulkner Foundation and has served on the board of the National Book Critics Circle. She is the host of the Missing Pages podcast.Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best known broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting KEEN ON, he is the host of the long-running How To Fix Democracy show. He is also the author of four prescient books about digital technology: CULT OF THE AMATEUR, DIGITAL VERTIGO, THE INTERNET IS NOT THE ANSWER and HOW TO FIX THE FUTURE. Andrew lives in San Francisco, is married to Cassandra Knight, Google's VP of Litigation & Discovery, and has two grown children.Keen On is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit keenon.substack.com/subscribe
I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger is a big-hearted, hopeful novel that's part adventure story, part love story — with unforgettable dialogue, characters, and sense of place. Enger joins us to talk about writing dystopian fiction, the importance of setting, world building and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. We end this episode with TBR Topoff recommendations from Marc and Mary. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang. New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger Peace Like a River by Leif Enger Virgil Wander by Leif Enger CivilWarLand in Bad Decline by George Saunders Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes The Mysteries of Pittsburgh by Michael Chabon Featured Books (TBR Topoff): All Our Shimmering Skies by Trent Dalton The Summer Guest by Justin Cronin
My name is Harrison Otis, and I'm a graduate student in the English Department at Baylor University. Today I'm reviewing Peace Like a River, the 2001 debut novel by Minnesota author Leif Enger.
Saint Athanasius ChurchContra Mundum SwaggerVideo Version
If you were a lawyer drawing breath in summer 2022, you heard about the “victory bell” case. A prominent defense attorney, returning to base camp with a stunning victory after defensing a medical malpractice case, rang his firm's victory bell and announced, the victim “was probably negligently killed, but we kind of made it look like other people did it.” The comment was captured on video, and the internet did its thing.A common hot-take was that the video would undo the verdict. But many appellate attorneys scoffed: an attorney's puff talk after trial, the cooler heads responded, is not a trial irregularity.Enter Brooke Bove, who wrote the successful new-trial motion in Garcia v. Quraishi that got the judgment vacated. Brooke gives an insider look at trial, and why the defense attorneys reference to an empty chair particularly galled the trial judge.Bove, an Army communications specialist before becoming an appellate attorney, shares her insights into the case and what is coming next, as well as top legal tips and strategies.Brooke Bove's biography and LinkedIn profile.Appellate Specialist Jeff Lewis' biography, LinkedIn profile, and Twitter feed.Appellate Specialist Tim Kowal's biography, LinkedIn profile, Twitter feed, and YouTube page.Sign up for Tim Kowal's Weekly Legal Update, or view his blog of recent cases.Use this link to get a 25% lifetime discount on Casetext.Other items discussed in the episode:Episode 42 discussing the “victory bell” case, Garcia v. Quraishi.The LA Times article on the “victory bell “case.The Lawterature PodcastPeace Like a River by Leif Enger.
How large of an impact does a good or bad element have on a story? On this episode of The Bookmark, Autumn, Chris, and Miranda discuss books that left them with a love/hate relationship. The Bookmark is your place to find your next great book. Each week, join regular readers Miranda Ericsson, Chris Blocker and Autumn Friedli along with other librarians as they discuss all the books you'll want to add to your reading list.
Charlotte Mason set her method firmly on the power of narrative. This episode is the book discussion of a novel from 2001: Peace Like a River by Leif Enger. Miss Mason kept up with current literature and said "our novels are our teachers." This beautiful, symbolic, realistic, and panoramic novel is an excellent teacher. Emily, Nicole, and Liz have a grand time unwrapping some aspects that reveal some of its wonders.
Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia, the second book in C. S. Lewis's Chronicles, shifts our perspective on the reliability of myth, explores the relationship between faith and faithfulness, and teaches simple but profound life lessons along the way. I'm Rachelle Ferguson of Kittywham Productions, and Unknown Friends is my weekly book review podcast. Visit the Unknown Friends homepage at www.kittywhamproductions.com/podcast. To learn more about me and my work as a Christian playwright, explore my website at www.kittywhamproductions.com. Support the podcast and unlock bonus content (including a limited-time offer to get a free copy of Leif Enger's Peace Like a River): www.patreon.com/unknownfriends Get in touch with me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachelle.ferguson Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/kittywhamproductions Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast, leave a quick review, and share with your book-loving friends!
Kicking off the podcast with best-selling author, Leif Enger.
Hello to you listening in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday with questions carefully chosen to help you collect stories in the oral tradition or spark your own writing. Either way, you'll say, "Thanks for the memories." “Is it hubris to believe we all live epics?” [Peace Like a River by Leif Enger]An epic is a large body of work made up of smaller stories featuring deeds and adventures by a courageously heroic figure in an action-packed setting with some magical forces thrown in.My dad was a child of the Great Depression, joined the US Navy to fight in World War II when he was underage, came home, put himself through school on the GI Bill, married, raised a large family, lost his beloved wife to cancer far too early, battled cancer himself, and walked into very late age with two really really bad knees.What makes this epic? Dad showed his children how to live to a good death. Dad was in a nursing home for 9 months before he died short of his 92nd birthday. No more walking outside, no more Mass at his church, no more singing in the choir, no more freedom or independence. And yet there was a grace, a resilience, dignity, even humor about the change in his circumstances that went with him to the very end. That was epic. Story Prompt: How are you living an epic? Write that story!Practical Tip: The magic of stories is also in the sharing. If you wish share your story with someone or something. All that matters is you have a story.This is the place to thrive together. Come for the stories - stay for the magic. Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, follow, share a nice shout out on your social media or podcast channel of choice, including Android, and join us next time! You're invited to stop by the website and subscribe to stay current with Diane, her journeys, her guests, as well as creativity, imagination, walking, stories, camaraderie, and so much more: Quarter Moon Story ArtsProduction Team: Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 - Present: for credit & attribution Quarter Moon Story Arts
Generally I like to read old books that have stood the test of time, but I make an exception for Leif Enger. In this episode, I share about his books and why you should read them!* SUMMER SALE *Use coupon code, SUMMER, to get 15% OFF my course, All About Homeschool, for a limited time only! Click HERE to order All About Homeschool now!Enjoy the show? Leave a rating and review!
Leif Enger's latest novel, titled Virgil Wander after its protagonist, depicts a middle-aged movie house owner getting a second chance at life. While the novel is engaging, quirky, and optimistic, it seems to lack the zealous Christian faith of Enger's first novel, Peace Like a River. The Unknown Friends podcast is now on Patreon! Visit our page at https://www.patreon.com/unknownfriends, where you can explore the different ways to join as a patron and get access to bonus content like our new monthly preview episodes. I'm Rachelle Ferguson of Kittywham Productions, and Unknown Friends is my weekly book review podcast, where I discuss classic and contemporary literature from my personal reading list. Visit the Unknown Friends homepage at www.kittywhamproductions.com/podcast. To learn more about me and my writing, explore my website at www.kittywhamproductions.com. Get in touch on Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachelle.ferguson Connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/kittywhamproductions Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with your book-loving friends!
Join us in our third book club as we discuss Leif Enger's bestselling novel, Peace Like a River.
Nancy Potter is an education civil rights attorney from Pittsburgh, PA. You can read more about her work here: https://mcandrewslaw.com/our-attorneys/nancy-e-potter/ She can be found on both Twitter and Instagram as @nncypttr Today we discuss "Peace Like a River" by Lief Enger. https://www.leifenger.com/peace-like-a-river
The Forefront team gathers to discuss the art they've been experiencing recently: Abbey on Turtledoves Sean on C.S. Lewis's The Discarded Image Zack on Jonathan Ogden Rich on Montell Fish Nate on The Chosen Cody on Leif Enger's Virgil Wander
In this episode ofSignposts, I sit down with one of my favorite novelists, Leif Enger. We talk about his writing, identity, and the what has influenced his writing. Leif Enger worked as a reporter and producer for Minnesota Public Radio for nearly twenty years before leaving to write fiction full-time. He is the author of Peace Like a River (Grove/Atlantic, 2001), So Brave, Young, and Handsome (Grove/Atlantic, 2008), and Virgil Wander (Grove Press, 2018). He lives in Minnesota with his wife Robin.I invite you to listen in on our conversation, and be sure to subscribe to receive future episodes of Signposts
My favorite read so far this year, thanks to the palpable faith of one central character: Leif Enger's Peace Like a River blends Zane Grey, Homer, Robert Louis Stevenson, and the King James Bible to shape a remarkable story about a family looking for a lost son and finding what they didn't know they needed. (Read John Piper's 2008 review of Peace Like a River: www.desiringgod.org/articles/not-heartwarming-christian-fiction) I'm Rachelle Ferguson of Kittywham Productions, and Unknown Friends is my weekly book review podcast, where I discuss classic and contemporary literature from my personal reading list. Visit the Unknown Friends homepage at www.soundcloud.com/unknown-friends. While studying English and classical languages at Hillsdale College I founded my company Kittywham Productions, where I publish original play scripts and skits for churches, schools, homeschool groups, and Christian theaters. To learn more about me and my writing, visit my website at www.kittywhamproductions.com. Get in touch on Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachelle.ferguson Connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/kittywhamproductions Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with your book-loving friends!
Pastor Jackson shares the story behind his love of reading (it involves dishes and Little House on the Prairie!) and how narratives can help us through rocky seasons. Plus, he and Pastor Courtney each share five recommended reads from their favorites lists. And we wrap it all up with Psalm 91 and praying for our pastors and those in leadership in this stretching season. Psalm 91 Pastor Jackson's list: Under the Unpredictable Plant by Eugene Peterson The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene Crime and Punishment by Fedor Doestoevsky The Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren Father Elijah by Michael D. O'Brien Pastor Courtney's list: Silence by Shusako Endo Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler East of Eden by John Steinbeck Gilead by Marilynne Robinson Peace Like a River by Leif Enger
Jonathan Rogers talks with Leif Enger, author of Virgil Wander and Peace Like A River. They discuss Leif's love of beautiful places in his favorite novels, the ability of readers to feel the delight of the author, and the magic of discovering the way a story goes as you're writing it. Support the show: https://therabbitroom.givingfuel.com/member See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I have an old wooden cane by my backdoor, and here is an episode where I talk a little too much about me trying to be "cool." Roly poly!! Heidi + Sarah PLAIN and Tall "So Young, Brave, and Handsome" by Leif Enger is the current book I am #whatchareadingtoday "Day by Day" from Godspell Ephesians 6:10-20 My poem called Grief. Sincerely, Sarah Find more at www.sincerelysarahstudios.com Song by Taylor Leonhardt "Today If You Hear Him" Photo by Nikki Santerre Photography
This week we’re discussing the novel Virgil Wander by Leif Enger, which is MBA’s Winter Reading Selection. Every student and staff member received a copy of the novel, generously donated by alumnus Morgan Entrekin. Mr. Entrekin graduated from MBA in the class of 1973 and is now the CEO of Grove Atlantic Press. In the … Continue reading Winter Reading: Virgil Wander →
It's a surprise bonus episode with the one-and-only Leif Enger! David chatted with him recently about the inspiration for Peace Like a River, his early days as a writer, the choices he makes as a writer, his process, his love of western novels and movies, and much, much more. If you like this episode please be sure to rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
And we're on to another book! Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they dive into a new book, Leif Enger's novel, Peace Like a River. In this episode they chat about the first 50 pages (aka: the first four chapters). Remember: when you rate and review the show you help spread the word! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
This week, Pastor Wilson talks about the Troll Guardians that can be found online, pestering any and all promoting something from Moscow, Idaho. Additionally, he unpacks the greek word architelones, and recommends Leif Enger's, Virgil Wander.
This week, Pastor Wilson talks about the Troll Guardians that can be found online, pestering any and all promoting something from Moscow, Idaho. Additionally, he unpacks the greek word architelones, and recommends Leif Enger's, Virgil Wander.
About a year ago, Dave and I had the privilege of being joined in-studio by acclaimed novelist Leif Enger while Barnabas was out on a work-related trip. He declared us really bad friends, and we're okay with that. So, today, as we all gear up for Thanksgiving, we're representing this interview as a special holiday gift to you! Listen in as we discuss: Leif's writing process and why it took 10 years for Virgil Wander to be released; Why his latest is his "most Christian but least evangelical" book yet What it means to be a successful writer (and how he handles criticism); How his three books connect with different seasons; and Why book tours actually still matter. And to add salt to the wound, here's how we included Barnabas in our group photo. A few of the books mentioned in this episode: The Book of Delights by Ross Gay The Overstory by Richard Powers 1984 by George Orwell The Plot Against America by Philip Roth Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson As always, be sure to grab a few bags of the Table of (mal)Contents blend by our friends at Lagares Coffee Roasters. Also, don't forget to grab a copy of Aaron's ebook from The Gospel Project, Jesus Saves Christmas, here. Sharing and supporting the show Leave a five-star rating and review of the show on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to the show. Give us a follow on Twitter at @MalContentsPod Be sure to use the Amazon affiliate links above to help us pay for the costs of producing and hosting the show. Interested in sponsoring Table of (mal)Contents? Let's talk via email or DM @malContentsPod on Twitter.
Amanda and Jenn discuss political nonfiction, twin stories, nonbinary reads, and more in this week’s episode of Get Booked. This episode is sponsored by Book Riot Insiders, Libro.fm and The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. FEEDBACK Chloe Poems’s Li’l Book O’ Manchester (rec’d by Arlene) The Night Brother by Rosie Garland (rec’d by Arlene) Pies and Prejudice: In Search of the North by Stuart Maconie (rec’d by Arlene) QUESTIONS 1. I love books that take a look inside a certain industry. I’ve read Deep Sea and Foreign going about commercial shipping and Flower Confidential about the cut flower industry recently. I’ve previously read books about the funeral trade and restaurant/food industry. So I’m looking for more! Preferably ones that are about things that don’t immediately spring to mind. Thanks in advance. -Anna 2. Fun, Light, Realistic YA – Not too fantastical or sci-fi. I’m looking for recommendations for my teenage daughters, ages 15 and 16 and I’m stumped. It seems we keep finding books with material that is too young for them too dark and serious. They have liked “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before”, “When Dimple Met Rishi” and the “Selection” series. They would love realistic fiction that isn’t teen romance but we are having a hard time finding anything fun that isn’t childish. -Cami 3. I recently came out as nonbinary after several years of being out as queer/bi. I am looking for a book with queer or nonbinary characters, though that certainly doesn’t need to be the focus of the book. I would just like to see more of myself represented in the things I read, and I knew you two would do a fantastic job! I like a little bit of everything, and I don’t shy away from YA or children’s books (Jessica Love’s Julian is a Mermaid is what inspired me to come out as nonbinary!). I would just say no religious books, please, and bonus points if the book is written by a queer or nonbinary author. Side note – thank you for this beautiful podcast! I have found so many books because of it, and I just adore you two. -Cheyenne 4. Hello Readerlicious Rock Stars! First off, you folks are super awesome and I adore listening to your show. My identical twin sister and I love reading about twins and I’d love some twin-ish recommendations from you all for us to read together. Some things to consider: 1) We’re open to any genre (other than horror) or reading level (middle grade and beyond). 2) Plots surrounding twins tend to be dark for some reason. Or, at least that seems to be the case with most twin books I’ve come across. A focus on fun/upbeat/kickass/bright/optimistic would be great. Please, no tragic death of one of the twins. That would be way too much of a bummer. 3) We’d love it if you could recommend some reads that don’t involve the typical good twin/bad twin trope. As twins who are constantly facing the ridiculous tendency for folks to categorize us/twins in that kind of binary way, it’d be great to read something that doesn’t do the same. How about BOTH twins being bright lights in the world? 4) Along the same lines as no twin death, I’m not a fan of any book that delves into serious abuse or tragic death of kids. As a mom of two cuties, it’s way too hard for me to read about kids and dark, tragic circumstances; i.e. abduction, murder, rape, etc. 5) We’re huge fans of strong, fabulous, outrageous, potentially super power grrls who kick ass. Characters who overcome hardship and beat a crappy system are definitely ones we’d love to root for. Thank you! -Nicole 5. Hello! I love your podcast! I am looking for a personal recommendation. Every so often I come upon a book or movie that broadens my mind and my heart. These books and movies usually have unconventional characters who become unlikely heroes. Strong character development, authenticity, and complexity are all fabulous, and magical realism is a bonus. Some of my favorites have in this genre have been The Seventh Gate by Richard Zimler, Peace Like a River by Leif Enger, Mink River by Brian Doyle, Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson, Sing Unburied Sing by Jesmyn Ward, and Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz. I would love another one to devour and fall in love with. Thank you for your help
*Headphones Recommended* Look ahead to some fantastic paperback releases with this month’s SHELF TALKING! Recorded live at Literati: –Nick Dybek shares excerpts from his WWI-era novel The Verdun Affair. –Leif Enger recounts the long road that led to his third novel, Virgil Wanderer. –Astrophysicist Adam Becker reads the introduction to his debut What Is Real?: The Unfinished Quest for the Meaning of Quantum Physics. Shelf Talking is produced by Mike and Hilary Gustafson with John Ganiard, Bennet Johnson, and Sam Krowchenko Our theme songs are “Orange and Red” and "Bonhomie" by Pity Sex (2016, Run for Cover Records)
Only a very few novels come together in such a way as to perfectly capture the aspects of language, faith, adventure, beauty, and mystery that we love so much in the Rabbit Room, and Leif Enger is the rare author who has written more than one of them. Whether it's the miraculous tale of Peace Like a River, the conversational grace of So Brave, Young, and Handsome, or the high-flying kites of Virgil Wander, Leif is a teller of the kind of tales that we love to love. Here, in his 2013 Hutchmoot address, he reminds us that we’re all driven by a holy wind, and we’re at our best when we relax into its mystery, and sail a course full and by. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this arts review episode, Cody Schweickert, Zack Osinski, and Nate Mancini discuss the music and movies they've been experiencing recently. 00:12 - Introduction 00:48 - Zack recounts his experience at a concert featuring Josh Garrels + The Gray Havens 12:42 - Cody discusses 21 Pilots, Joel Ansett, and the book Peace Like a River by Leif Enger. 21:56 - Nate reviews the new biopic Tolkien and recommends the recently completed Enneagram song series by Sleeping at Last
Chart-topping novelist Leif Enger burst onto the literary scene in 2001 with Peace Like a River – one of this century’s few fiction debuts to sell a million copies. Set in northern Minnesota in the 1960s, audiences fell in love with Peace Like a River’s arcadian small town setting and 12-year-old protagonist Reuben ‘Rube’ Land […]
Chart-topping novelist Leif Enger burst onto the literary scene in 2001 with Peace Like a River – one of this century’s few fiction debuts to sell a million copies. Set […]
Chart-topping novelist Leif Enger burst onto the literary scene in 2001 with Peace Like a River – one of this century’s few fiction debuts to sell a million copies. Set in northern Minnesota in the 1960s, audiences fell in love with Peace Like a River’s arcadian small town setting and 12-year-old protagonist Reuben ‘Rube’ Land – a young narrator every […]
BiblioFiles: A CenterForLit Podcast about Great Books, Great Ideas, and the Great Conversation
It’s the Andrews like you’ve never seen them before. When Adam hits record without telling the crew, he subjects the BiblioFiles world to a regular, old, unpremeditated Andrews family exchange. Once that’s finally over, we begin a discussion of Missy’s latest read, Virgil Wanderer, and revel in the beauty of Leif Enger’s recent offering.Referenced Works:– Libromania (closereadspods.com)– Virgil Wander, Peace Like a River, So Brave, Young, and Handsome by Leif Enger– An Interview with Leif Enger about Virgil Wanderer (The Rabbit Room)– Mary Poppins by P.L. Travers– Pelican Book Club: Jayber Crow We love hearing your questions and comments! You can contact us by emailing adam@centerforlit.com, or you can visit our website www.centerforlit.com to find even more ways to participate in the conversation.
In this episode of The Happy Rant Ted, Ronnie, and Barnabas discuss a range of topics from the very fun to the very serious. INDY LIVE is coming! On March 31 we will host our 3rd live event in Indianapolis and you can get details in the episode or at HappyRantPodcast.com The recent Abortion ruling in New York and how such travesties come about Abortion arguments and why the sides talk past each other The conflict between teens and Native Americans at the March for life Leif Enger's genius
On Tuesday January 29th, Josh will be talking with Norman Mitchell about the release of his first novel The Hidden One, a political thriller surrounding The fate of those caught up in the “Iron Cage” after World War II. In addition to writing and his fascination with history, Mitchell also enjoys reading, biking, listening to music and following politics. He and his wife live in Golden Valley, MN. Then, we rebroadcast an interview Steve conducted with Minnesota author Leif Enger about his recent novel Virgil Wander. Virgil Wander is set in a small Minnesotan town bordering Lake Superior. With intelligent humor and captivating whimsy, Enger conjures a remarkable portrait of a region and its residents, who, for reasons of choice or circumstance, never made it out of their defunct industrial district. Write On! Radio airs from 7-8pm CT on KFAI, 90.3 FM in Mpls/St. Paul, and on the web at www.kfai.org
Join us as we talk about our first takes on the Oscar Nominations, a few new trailers, First Reformed, Glass and Downsizing. Also, the our stew about Alexander Payne's films. Which do we like...which ones we aren't that fond of and why. Plus, all the films we've seen in between. Next show takes on depictions of writers and the writing life--fiction or biopics. NOTES TITLE: Cultural Stew Podcast EPISODE: 0027 DATE: 1/27/19 NEWS WE CARE ABOUT: 17:30 Golden Globe recap - Surprises? Did we get anything right? Golden Globe winners here-- (https://variety.com/2019/film/news/2019-golden-globes-winners-list-1203099006/) The Oscar Nominations were released… ROMA is in two categories (Best Pic/For Film), The Favourite and Roma are tied with 10 each. Won’t You Be My Neighbour snubbed big time. Screen Actor’s Guild tonight SAG noms--SAG Winners here---- (https://variety.com/2019/film/awards/2019-sag-awards-winners-list-1203119846/) Michael Jackson Musical confirmed--Don’t Stop ‘til You Get Enough--on Broadway 2020 Netflix will pair John Cena with Jason Bateman for an action comedy. Sopranos prequel film The Many Saints Of Newark Michael Gandolfini Sundance Film Festival Ted Bundy--Zac Efron, trailer link!! (https://youtu.be/UP1ya1fiH_U) Ghostbusters 3! (continuing from original universe?) done by son of Ivan Reichman?? Sp teaser--link!!! (https://youtu.be/TyjqCRJmCPE) Movie...lololo...pass Movie Pass is back. Tomorrow Man is picked up. Local film...Peter Doyle, Rochesterian! http://www2.ljworld.com/living/arts-entertainment/2019/jan/22/kevin-willmott-who-co-wrote-blackkklansman-nominated-for-screenwriting-oscar/ TRAILERS: Extremely Vile https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzL2yBTrh8Q&t=0s Beach Bum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSALRP1mZNQ Umbrella Academy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DAmWHxeoKw The Boys https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NilteC-7jeM The Man Who Killed Hitler https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFHJMBQIav0 John Wick 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7XM597XO94 Spiderman Far From Home https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYYtuKyMtY8 THE RECOMMENDATION LIST SOMETHING YOU WATCHED (36:58) Valerie: First Reformed: https://youtu.be/hCF5Y8dQpR4 RON: Glass https://youtu.be/95ghQs5AmNk TONY: Downsizing https://youtu.be/UCrBICYM0yM To download your free audiobook today go to: audibletrial.com/culturalstew. TODAY’S PICK IS: Virgil Wander by Leif Enger https://www.amazon.com/Virgil-Wander/dp/B07HFG23VD TODAY’S STEW (TONY): The Art of Losing, or How when you suffer loss, you evolve MEDIA OF THE WEEK: Alexander Payne… Any of his films Next STEW: (Valerie) Films depicting famous writers or the writing life. THE MOVIES WE MIGHT EXPLORE (Valerie ) (examples) The Wonder Boys, The Hours, Swimming Pool, Shakespeare in Love, Sylvia, Misery, Adaptation, Capote, The Shining, The End of the Tour, One True Thing. ANY of these will do. GRAB BAG: (1:35:16) KIDS CORNER: Netflix- Carmen Sandiego - Y7; Wall-E 2008- G SCORE OF THE WEEK: WEEZER https://www.npr.org/sections/allsongs/2019/01/24/688131461/hear-weezers-surprise-new-covers-album BOOK OF THE WEEK: “THE SLAP” a 2008 novel by Australian author Christos Tsiolkas WHAT’S ON YOUR RADAR AND IN YOUR QUEUE (1:38:22) TONY W - A Very English Scandal (AMZ PRM), The Slap (Library), All The President’s Men (again), Destination Wedding L - Weezer dropped a new album this week “The Teal Album” features renditions of such 80s hits as A-Ha’s “Take On Me,” Tears for Fears’ “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” The Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” and Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” in addition to classics from the 60s and 70s like Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” and ELO’s “Mr. Blue Sky.” R - Royal Rumble is tonight on the WWE network, Roman Empire, Shtisel (Netflix), Disobedience RON W - Glass, Spiderverse, Punisher S2, First Man, Wayne, Sex Education R/Q - not much, catching up on backlog of DVR/Netflix/HBO etc shows (counterpoint, True Detective S3) Q -. May try for some Oscar movies if any are still out at AMC, other wise catching up. Valerie: W - Ben is Back, A Dog’s Way Home, The Wife, Mary, Queen of Scots, First Reformed, First Man (Amazon Prime) Ethan Hawke-- Up for Original Screenplay by Paul Schrader--Taxi Driver, Raging Bull American Gigolo--ha. . L- Virgil Wander by Leif Enger- Virgil R - Roma, The Favourite, Vice Q - Off Camera with Sam Jones (Netflix) Sex Education (Netflix), OUTRO (1:50:34) TONY where can we find you on social media? @smtorchio and facebook anthony carter ins: antcarter85 VALERIE: @vbvidmar on Twitter Instagram pennylane64 facebook.com/valerie.lorraine RON you can find me pretty much everywhere @gfmedia You can find us at: CulturalStew.net, @culturalstewnet on twitter and Cultural Stew on Facebook MUSIC: Intro & Break music “Please Listen Carefully” by Jahzzar Available thru the Creative Commons license from FreeMusicArchive.org Taking you out courtesy of Epidemic Sound Do have you original music you’d like us to take a listen to and possibly share, contact us!
We are ecstatic to welcome Greta Eskridge (@maandpamodern) to the show! She is the ultimate nature enthusiast, and you will not want to stay inside another minute when you hear her wonder at all things outdoors. Greta gets real, simple, AND fun which is exactly why we knew she was a must-have guest on Homeschool Unrefined. Today's podcast is brought to you by audible - get a FREE audiobook download and 30 day free trial at www.audibletrial.com/homeschoolunrefined. Over 180,000 titles to choose from for your iPhone, Android, Kindle or mp3 player. Our Audible listens: Everything Is Horrible and Wonderful by Stephanie Wittels Wachs, You're On an Airplane by Parker Posey, The Roald Dahl Audio Collection, The Collected Stories of Winnie the Pooh by AA Milne. How To Raise a Wild Child by Scott Sampson Greta on the Read Aloud Revival Podcast Episode 62 Find Greta at her website, instagram, and her podcast. Loving This Week Maren: Her mug from Caribou and this mug from Jo's Coffee. Angela: Peace Like a River by Leif Enger Visit our website Support us on Patreon here. Join our closed Facebook group: Unrefined Homeschoolers Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren Email us any questions or feedback at homeschoolunrefined@gmail.com Visit our Amazon Shop: https://www.amazon.com/shop/homeschoolunrefined We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Our Christmas episode features two local writers. Steve talks to Kate DiCamillo about her recent children's novel Louisiana's Way Home. Katrina Elizabeth "Kate" DiCamillo is an American writer of children's fiction for all reading levels, usually featuring animals. She is one of six people to win two Newbery Medals, recognizing her novels The Tale of Despereaux and Flora & Ulysses. Then he speaks to Leif Enger about Virgil Wander. It's the first in ten years from the award-winning, million-copy bestselling author. Midwestern movie house owner Virgil Wander is 'cruising along at medium altitude' when his car flies off the road into icy Lake Superior. Virgil survives but his language and memory are altered and he emerges into a world no longer familiar to him.
First Draft interview with Leif Enger
Leif Enger was raised in Osakis, Minnesota, and worked as a reporter and producer for Minnesota Public Radio for nearly twenty years. His newest novel is called Virgil Wander. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This is one of the greatest professional failures of my life, missing that. Barnabas Piper You’ve heard us all talk about his books a lot. You’ve heard Barnabas admit that he has a semi-idolatrous man-crush on him. And a couple weeks back, it happened: Acclaimed novelist Leif Enger joined us on the show.
Steve talks with Minnesota's own Leif Enger about his new novel Virgil Wander. Leif Enger worked as a reporter and producer for Minnesota Public Radio before writing his bestselling and award-winning debut novel Peace Like a River. His second novel, So Brave, Young, and Handsome was also a bestseller. Anna speaks with Mike Corrao, also a Minnesotan, about his new novel Man, Oh Man – a humorous but insightful experiment that will have you questioning how you've always approached novels. Mike Corrao is a writer and filmmaker whose work has been featured in publications such as Entropy, Always Crashing and The Portland Review.
Lori can't get enough of Ray Donovan. Donny is not a fan of Sally 4 Ever on HBO. Lizzo's "Boys" named one of the top 10 songs of the year by Time Magazine. Snoop Dogg gets a Hollywood star. Guest is Leif Enger, author of "Virgil Wander".
A gorgeous sweeping story of a small town movie theater owner (Virgil Wander) on the North Shore who experiences something very dramatic in the opening pages of the book. This is a story of new beginnings, amazing characters and beautiful storytelling. We also found the story to be funny, sweet and poignant. This is Leif’s 3rd novel…. Peace Like a River and So Brave, Young and Handsome are the other 2 books. 5 out of 5 stars
Andrea Debbink is an editor and author with more than a decade of experience in the publishing world. Currently she’s an editor at American Girl where she creates nonfiction content that empowers girls to explore their creative potential. Her new book Spark: A Guide to Ignite the Creativity Inside You just won a 2018 Moonbeam Children’s Book Award. We chatted with Andrea about what it looks like to take a creative risk, her favorite books on creativity, and what creative risks Ashley and I are taking in 2019. You can connect with Andrea on Instagram, Goodreads, or at andreadebbink.com. Grab a copy of Andrea's book, SPARK: A Guide to Ignite the Creativity Inside YOU, illustrated by Emily Balsley. People & Things We Mentioned: The Lovely Drawer has 25k followers on Instagram and still struggles with getting her posts seen. Leif Enger writes slowly. Ashley highly recommends this novel, and his halfway through his current. And Leif is on Instagram! That book we couldn’t remember the name of that Ashley read about the cycles of creativity? It was Ryan Holliday’s Perennial Seller that she talked about in this episode. Ashley recommends the #amwriting podcast. Anthony Trollope worked as a mail carrier and wrote before he went to work each day. If he finished a novel before heading to work, he started a new one. Woah. Books We Talked About: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Daily Rituals by Mason Curry Scratch: Writers, Money, and the Art of Making a Living by Manjula Martin How to Be a Happier Parent by KJ Dell’Antonia
Hi friends and readers! Katie and I spent this entire episode catching up on what we've been reading (and the book-to-movie adaptations we've been watching), including Anne of Green Gables, To All the Boys I've Loved Before, Crazy Rich Asians, Walk Two Moons, and so much more. Check it out and let us know what you're currently reading! Books mentioned: Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech Love That Dog by Sharon Creech Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery The Ensemble by Aja Gabel To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han Far from the Tree by Robin Benway Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel Peace Like a River by Leif Enger Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman The Wonder by Emma Donoghue Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan Follow Us Everywhere! Website:https://www.nothankswerebooked.com/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/nothankswerebooked Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nothxwerebooked/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoThxWereBooked
We are ecstatic to welcome Greta Eskridge (@maandpamodern) to the show! She is the ultimate nature enthusiast, and you will not want to stay inside another minute when you hear her wonder at all things outdoors. Greta gets real, simple, AND fun which is exactly why we knew she was a must-have guest on Homeschool Unrefined. Today's podcast is brought to you by audible - get a FREE audiobook download and 30 day free trial at www.audibletrial.com/homeschoolunrefined. Over 180,000 titles to choose from for your iPhone, Android, Kindle or mp3 player. Our Audible listens: Everything Is Horrible and Wonderful by Stephanie Wittels Wachs, You're On an Airplane by Parker Posey, The Roald Dahl Audio Collection, The Collected Stories of Winnie the Pooh by AA Milne. How To Raise a Wild Child by Scott Sampson Greta on the Read Aloud Revival Podcast Episode 62 Find Greta at her website, instagram, and her podcast. Loving This Week Maren: Her mug from Caribou and this mug from Jo's Coffee. Angela: Peace Like a River by Leif Enger Visit our website Support us on Patreon here. Join our closed Facebook group: Unrefined Homeschoolers Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube Angela on Instagram: @unrefinedangela Maren on Instagram: @unrefinedmaren Email us any questions or feedback at homeschoolunrefined@gmail.com Visit our Amazon Shop: https://www.amazon.com/shop/homeschoolunrefined We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
In today’s episode Mollie and Katie talk about how our reading has been slow, but good, what author we’d like to go on a tropical besties vacay with, and how Jeremiah Land from Peace Like a River is full of boundless wisdom. We also ponder the question: do you have to love your job? Very existential of us. Books Mentioned: Uncommon Type by Tom Hanks Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr Liane Moriarty (author of such books as Big Little Lies and The Husband’s Secret) Sweet Bitter by Stephanie Danler Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson Peace Like a River by Leif Enger Follow us all over the internet! Website:https://www.nothankswerebooked.com/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/nothankswerebooked Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nothxwerebooked/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoThxWereBooked
Part two of Vice and Virtue! We're joined by guest Sara Shaw to talk about the ways in which virtue is portrayed, exploited, utilized and embodied by a variety of different characters. Homework for the episode: The Crucible by Arthur Miller; Dogma, 1999 film directed by Kevin Smith; Peace Like a River, 2001 novel by Leif Enger.
History of Wolves (Grove Atlantic) History of Wolves is the story of fourteen-year- old Linda, who lives with her parents in an abandoned commune in the icy woods of Northern Minnesota. Isolated at home and at school, Linda finds unusual company in her beautiful classmate, Lily, and her charismatic History teacher, Mr. Grierson. When Mr. Grierson is accused of possessing child pornography, Linda’s world shifts dramatically. Things seem to look up when the Gardner family moves in across the lake. Linda is welcomed into their home as their son, Paul’s, babysitter. However, this sense of belonging, and her newfound feelings of purpose come at an unexpected price—Linda is drawn into secrets that she doesn’t understand and is eventually forced to make decisions that will affect her entire life. Praise for History of Wolves “[A] stellar debut . . . A sense of foreboding subtly permeates the story . . . [the] wordsmithing is fantastic, rife with vivid turns of phrase. Fridlund has elegantly crafted a striking protagonist whose dark leanings cap off the tragedy at the heart of this book, which is moving and disturbing, and which will stay with the reader.”—Publishers Weekly (starred boxed review) “An atmospheric, near-gothic coming-of-age novel turns on the dance between predator and prey . . . Fridlund is an assured writer . . . The novel has a tinge of fairy tale, wavering on the blur between good and evil, thought and action. But the sharp consequences for its characters make it singe and sing—a literary tour de force.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “The writing is beautiful . . . a triumph of tone and attitude. Lovers of character-driven literary fiction will embrace this.”—Booklist (starred review) “First thing you see is the bracing intelligence of the book’s young narrator – no big-eyed sentiments for Linda, raised amid blighted ideals in the ceaseless winters and vast swamps of northern Minnesota. So observant is Linda that you trust her instantly, but it’s her own search for trust, for connection even at enormous cost, that will hold you to the final hour. Emily Fridlund’s language is generous and precise, her story grief-tempered and forcefully moving. History of Wolves is the loneliest thing I’ve read in years, and it’s gorgeous. These are haunted pages.” —Leif Enger, author of Peace Like a River “As exquisite a first novel as I’ve ever encountered. Poetic, complex, and utterly, heartbreakingly beautiful.”—T. C. Boyle “So delicately calibrated and precisely beautiful that one might not immediately sense the sledgehammer of pain building inside this book. And I mean that in the best way. What powerful tension and depth this provides! I’m so excited for readers to encounter the talent and roiling intelligence of Emily Fridlund.”—Aimee Bender Emily Fridlund grew up in Minnesota and currently resides in the Finger Lakes region of New York. Her fiction has appeared in a variety of journals, including Boston Review, Zyzzyva, FiveChapters, New Orleans Review, Sou'wester, New Delta Review, Chariton Review, Portland Review, and Painted Bride Quarterly. The opening chapter of History Wolves won the 2013 McGinnis-Ritchie Award for fiction, and Fridlund's collection of stories, Catapult, won the Mary McCarthy Prize in Short Fiction and will be published by Sarabande in the fall of 2017.
Marianne snakker om Så ung, så kjekk, så modig av Leif Enger. Bokprat fra 23.09.2014.
Katherine Hyde reviews Peace Like a River by Leif Enger, published by Atlantic Monthly Press.