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Chatter rolls with Claude, David, Torie, and COB fave Louis Bayard. They cover dance clubs, Pale Blue Eye(s) and Commaders fans. They marvel at Iowa City, home to everyone who's writing a book. Literary legend (and Lou's pal) Thomas Mallon zooms in to share two books from his exceptional and large collection of work — "A Book of One's Own" and "The Very Heart of It." The first captures the hearts and souls of diverse people and places in time. "The Very Heart of It" vividly portrays the terror of the AIDS epidemic and the vibrant cultural scene of 1980s New York. Mallon's a legend and a true writer's writer.
We're relaunching Let It Roll by reposting every episode in chronological order by subject matter. In this episode, host Nate Wilcox welcomes back Dave Thompson to continue discussing Dave's book An Evolving Tradition: The Child Ballads in Modern Folk and Rock Music. This episode covers the very oldest examples of The Child Ballads, with lyrical themes dating back to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, as well as the contributions of major literary figures like Sir Walter Scott and Charles Dickens. This episode originally dropped in 2024. GO TO THE LET IT ROLL SUBSTACK TO HEAR THE FULL EPISODE -- The final 15 minutes of this episode are exclusively for paying subscribers to the Let It Roll Substack. Also subscribe to the LET IT ROLL EXTRA feed on Apple, Spotify or your preferred podcast service to access the full episodes via your preferred podcast outlet. We've got all 350+ episodes listed, organized by mini-series, genre, era, co-host, guest and more. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber to support the show. Thanks! Email letitrollpodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Twitter. Let It Roll is proud to be part of Pantheon Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"Bill Nye and Boomerang Or the Tale of a Meek-Eyed Mule and Some Other Literary Gems" is a delightful collection from humorist Bill Nye, who draws inspiration from his experiences in Laramie, Wyoming, where he served as the first editor of the Laramie Boomerang, named after his beloved mule. This work features whimsical tales and "ethereal flights of fancy" that reflect Nye's unique perspective on life and its eccentricities. The book promises to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, resonating with themes of childlike wonder and the simple pleasures of storytelling. With its humor and charm, it invites listeners to embrace laughter and the lightheartedness that can be found in everyday experiences.
What makes secondhand books so irresistible? Kate and Laura celebrate the joy of used bookshops, their favourite places to shop, literary finds and the thrill of unexpected discoveries. There's also an interview with W. B. Gooderham, author of Dedicated To, a book that explores the touching, funny and sometimes heartbreaking messages that can be found in the handwritten dedications tucked inside secondhand books. Whether you're a devoted secondhand book hunter or simply love hearing readers talk about books, this episode is a celebration of literary serendipity, book collecting, and the enduring pleasure of finding exactly the right book when you least expect it.Book list and linksBookshopaholics: The Paperhound • Episode #139‘Owner of Vancouver's eclectic MacLeod's Books marks 50 years of serving bibliophiles',John Mackie for the Vancouver SunThe Second Shelf bookshop (now in online form)Aphrodisiacs in your Garden by Charles ConnellThe Transitive Vampire by Karen Elizabeth GordonThe Complete Polysyllabic Spree by Nick HornbyThings I Learned on the 6.28 by Stig AbellGriffin Bay Bookstore, San Juan islandEpisode #51: Barnabees BookshopSkoob booksDedicated to, compiled by W.G. GooderhamThe Diary of a Nobody by George and Wheedon GrossmithThe Secret Diary of Adrian Mole and The Growing Pains of Adrian Mole by Sue TownsendWise Children by Angela CarterArabella by Georgette HeyerHouse of Niccolo and Game of Kings by Dorothy DunnettJudd Books, BloomsburyTimecodes00:00 Welcome and a pod milestone00:48 Secondhand book-hunting03:01 Browsing vs. buying07:58 Secondhand treasures11:52 Kate's love of books about books16:23 Dream bookshops17:18 Our favourite places to buy secondhand20:42 Patreon Break21:50 Kate meets W.B. Gooderham23:43 Skoob books and inscribed editions27:22 How Wayne's collecting began28:41 Dedicated To: The forgotten friendships hidden stories and lost loves found in secondhand books30:50 Releasing Books Back32:09 To inscribe or not to inscribe33:07 Diary Of A Nobody by George and Wheedon Grossmith37:32 Adrian Mole Editions38:39 Wise Children39:51 Pnin – a collection that took Wayne years to assemble41:28 Bookshelves and Umberto Eco's library44:04 Laura shares some of her favourite used-book haunts47:54 Why secondhand books matter49:08 Episode wrapSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Author Edel Coffey joins Dearbhail to discuss literary feuds. The conversation is prompted by a growing controversy around the memoir of celebrated author, Rachel Cusk, which details her difficult relationship with a famous actor, widely believed to be based on Natalie Portman.
Judith Feher-Gurewich, Ph,D., practices psychoanalysis in Cambridge, MA. She is affiliated with the Boston Psychoanalytic Institute and is a member of the Association de Formation Psychoanalytique et de Recherches Freudiennes: Espace Analytique in Paris. Dr. Gurewich is the Director of the Lacan Seminar at Harvard University's Center for Literary and Cultural Studies.Other Press site: https://otherpress.com/our-story/---Become part of the Hermitix community:The Hermitage: the-hermitage.mn.coHermitix Twitter - / hermitixpodcast Support Hermitix:Patreon - www.patreon.com/hermitix Donations: - https://www.paypal.me/hermitixpod
Episode Description:In this episode of Conceptually Speaking, I sit down with Dr. Joseph Allen Boone, Professor Emeritus of English at the University of Southern California, to discuss his new book from Columbia University Press, The Melville Effect: A Literary Afterlife Across the Arts. According to Boone, we are living through a second Melville revival. The first, in the 1920s, was engineered by critics who pulled Melville out of obscurity and streamlined him into an American answer to European modernism. Our current renaissance is being driven by artists working in painting, collage, performance, musical theater, video, fiction, and more besides. Our conversation works through why Melville has been “having a moment” as it were. Part of the answer he offers is thematic, since a novel that already contains globalism, extraction, ecological collapse, and racial encounters will feel resonant with our current moment despite when it was authored. The larger part, however, is shaped by its form. Moby-Dick opens with a dictionary page, moves through etymologies and epigraphs borrowed from the commonplace book tradition, drops in a sermon, a Shakespearean soliloquy, a play script, legal affidavits, and parodic scientific taxonomy, and absorbs the whole media explosion of the 1840s and 50s along the way. Boone calls this aesthetic hybridity, and it is one the reasons Melville is legible as a companion to artists who work in our era of pastiche, collage, mashup, and remix. We also get into the pedagogical stakes, including an inspiring call for more arts integration and multimodal approaches to teaching canonical works.Key Concepts from the Episode:Aesthetic HybridityMelville's formal promiscuity could be seen as an exploration of the way form shapes content, which is the same question contemporary multimedia artists are asking about their creative use of diverse media and materials.Boone borrows the counterpane scene as his governing metaphor. Ishmael wakes unable to distinguish the crazy quilt from Queequeg's tattooed arm, and that indistinction, where the parts refuse to resolve into a pattern but cohere anyway, describes both Melville's method and the work being made from him.Consider how you might bring aesthetic hybridity into your classroom. What different mediums and materials could you bring into the patchwork quilt of your own curriculum?Literary History as AfterlifeThe reason literary history reads as dead is that we treat it as exclusively retrospective. Boone's counterclaim is that it is also progressive, continually reconstituted by whoever is currently reading and remixing it.The project of extending a text's afterlife cannot be accomplished through genuflection and submission. Instead, readers and creators should see themselves as participating in an ongoing production or a work and its related legacy.Consider what it might look like to have your students participate in the ongoing production of a text's literary afterlife. How might you balance scaffolding their ability to engage with the text and giving them agency to take it new places?Gaps as Sites of InquiryAbsence functions as invitation. Melville gives Mrs. Ahab two sentences in the whole of Moby-Dick, and artists have built collage cycles, a stage production, and a novel out of that gap. Reading what is not present can be a powerful act of critical framing and reading.The same logic drives the queer readings of Pierre, where James Creech's criticism, Maurice Sendak's illustrations, and Elizabeth Schultz's reading of a broom closet in the plates each produce something that is in the text and not in the text at once. Creative and critical readings provide us with the ability to construct new narratives that complicate the legacy of traditional works.Consider the gaps that exist in the literary works that you teach. Who is not featured or mentioned? Who appears briefly and why? How can you invite students to explode those glimpses into something bigger?Regular readers of Becoming Literary will recognize some of my favorite throughlines. This is a conversation about how we can move beyond treating canon as a collection of revered, pedestal placed texts and start treating it as a site of debate and dialogue. It is an invitation to see hybrid interpretive work as a legitimate mode of literary knowledge production, and an opportunity to move the field forward without leaving its past behind. I hope you enjoy the episode and answer its call!Links:The Melville Effect: A Literary Afterlife Across the ArtsDr. Joseph Allen Boone's WebsitePodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For InterviewsSupport the show
"Bill Nye and Boomerang Or the Tale of a Meek-Eyed Mule and Some Other Literary Gems" is a delightful collection from humorist Bill Nye, who draws inspiration from his experiences in Laramie, Wyoming, where he served as the first editor of the Laramie Boomerang, named after his beloved mule. This work features whimsical tales and "ethereal flights of fancy" that reflect Nye's unique perspective on life and its eccentricities. The book promises to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, resonating with themes of childlike wonder and the simple pleasures of storytelling. With its humor and charm, it invites listeners to embrace laughter and the lightheartedness that can be found in everyday experiences.
fWotD Episode 3366: Diaspora Revolt Welcome to featured Wiki of the Day, your daily dose of knowledge from Wikipedia's finest articles.The featured article for Thursday, 23 July 2026, is Diaspora Revolt.The Diaspora Revolt (115–117 CE, Hebrew: מרד הגלויות, romanized: mered ha-galuyot, or מרד התפוצות, mered ha-tfutzot, 'rebellion of the diaspora'; Latin: Tumultus Iudaicus), sometimes known as the Second Jewish–Roman War, was a series of uprisings launched by Jewish diaspora communities in several eastern provinces of the Roman Empire during the final years of Emperor Trajan's reign. Hostilities began while Trajan was engaged in his Parthian campaign in Mesopotamia, creating a favorable opportunity for rebellion. Ancient sources do not specify the motivations, but they were likely shaped by the Roman destruction of the Second Temple during the First Jewish Revolt in 70 CE, long-standing tensions between Jews and Greeks, the Fiscus Judaicus tax, messianic expectations, and hopes for a return to the Jewish homeland, Judaea.The uprisings broke out almost simultaneously in Egypt, Cyrenaica and Cyprus. Rebel attacks were directed mainly against locals rather than Roman authorities, with ancient authors such as Cassius Dio and Eusebius, as well as epigraphic evidence, reporting extreme violence. There is also a reference in Eusebius to Roman actions against Jews in Mesopotamia, though these events appear to have formed part of a broader local resistance to the Roman invasion of the Parthian Empire, rather than another Jewish uprising.Marcius Turbo, one of Trajan's top generals, was dispatched to suppress the uprisings in Egypt and Cyrenaica. Literary sources suggest that the Jewish population in these regions faced severe reprisals. Meanwhile, General Lusius Quietus quelled the rebellion in Mesopotamia and was subsequently appointed governor of Judaea. It was during this period that the poorly understood Kitos War may have occurred in Judaea, apparently involving unrest among the Jewish population. The diaspora uprisings were likely suppressed before autumn 117, just prior to Trajan's death; however, some unrest may have persisted into the winter of 117–118.The Diaspora Revolt led to the devastation, and in some cases the annihilation, of Jewish communities in Egypt, Cyrenaica, and Cyprus. Significant damage to buildings, temples, and roads is well attested in Cyrene and other parts of Cyrenaica. A festival celebrating victory over the Jews was still being observed eighty years later in the Egyptian city of Oxyrhynchus. The war is also believed to have ended Alexandria's early Christian community, which was largely of Jewish origins; the later non-Jewish Christian community adopted traditions that had originated in the city's Jewish population. Thirteen years after the diaspora uprisings, perhaps seeking to eradicate the seat of Jewish unrest, Emperor Hadrian re-founded Jerusalem as a Roman colony; in response, the Jews of Judaea launched the catastrophic Bar Kokhba Revolt. In the aftermath of the Diaspora Revolt, the largest Jewish diaspora communities were concentrated in Mesopotamia, Asia Minor and Italy. Jewish communities reestablished themselves in Egypt, Cyprus, and Cyrenaica during the 3rd–4th centuries CE, though they never reached their former prominence.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 00:51 UTC on Thursday, 23 July 2026.For the full current version of the article, see Diaspora Revolt on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm generative Niamh.
Literary scholar Ruth Wisse and publisher Adam Bellow join Rabbi David Wolpe for a lively discussion on American Jewish literature, 50 years on from the year Saul Bellow was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.Questions or comments? Send us a note at info@sapirjournal.orgMusic from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/theo-gerard/monsieur-groove
Hope you like curling up with a good podcast, because this week we're all about books...well, specifically, songs that are about or inspired by literature. How high brow of us! Our Third Lad for this discussion is "literate folk-pop" singer/songwriter Robert Deeble. Literary themes are central to the heart of his music, and his recently released 7th album, The Space Between Us, is no exception. It's another invitation into the secret, beautiful world he has been building since his 1997 debut, Days Like These. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn more at TheCityLife.org
Abstract: Alma 16 is an easily overlooked chapter in the Book of Mormon. It could be dismissed as a simple summary and “tidying up” of the narrative. It comes after two of the most dramatic scenes in the Book of Mormon, wherein women and children are burned to death in Ammonihah and Alma and Amulek are miraculously delivered from prison. It also directly precedes the account of the sons of Mosiah journeying to Lamanite lands to preach the gospel. However—as is the case with other chapters in the book of Alma that serve to summarize and conclude large sections of the text—Alma 16 is carefully developed, highly structured, and beautifully written. In this article, I will analyze the literary structure of Alma 16, which is composed of two major literary units. Both units are structured as chiasms in which the matching units share many strong links and parallels. These two chiasms also work together to engage the reader with striking parallels and dramatic contrasts. Alma 16, being the concluding chapter of Alma's missionary efforts among the Nephites, reveals a particular splendor and distinction. The two main chiastic structures help with the exegesis of these verses by highlighting significant yet potentially underappreciated features. The post The Literary Structure of Alma 16 first appeared on The Interpreter Foundation.
Watch as a full video interview on YouTubeAki Schilz is the Director at The Literary Consultancy (TLC), where she co-ordinates partnerships and programmes. She launched the Editing Skills Training Scheme in partnership with the Publishing Training Centre, which trained over 100 aspiring editors from under-represented communities. She has been named as one of the FutureBook 40, a list of people innovating the publishing industry, and was also nominated for an h100 Award for her #BookJobTransparency campaign, as well as being shortlisted for the Kim Scott Walwyn Prize for women in publishing, and has featured in the Bookseller 150 list of the most influential figures in publishing twice. In 2020, Aki launched the Being A Writer programme at TLC, a membership platform she co-devised with novelist and coach Julia Forster, which focuses on providing a space for writers to cultivate their creativity, and build emotional resilience. She is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.We had a great time chatting with Aki and hearing about her work with TLC, discussing what they can offer, as well as talking about whether such consultancies are right for everyone. We also talk about her support of writers away from the page, and chat about how to take the pressure off querying.Links:Follow Aki on BlueskyVisit The Literacy ConsultancyOur Drafting Notes episode discussing editoral consultanciesSupport us on Patreon and get the podcast early and ad-free, along with other great benefits, including a bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/ukpageonePage One - The Writer's Podcast is brought to you by Write Gear, creators of Page One - the Writer's Notebook. Learn more and order yours now: https://www.writegear.co.uk/page-oneFollow us on FacebookFollow us on InstagramFollow us on BlueskyFollow us on ThreadsPage One - The Writer's Podcast is part of STET Podcasts - the one stop shop for all your writing and publishing podcast needs! Follow STET Podcasts on Instagram and Bluesky Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Academia Unlocked, our literary deep-dive series on Book Talk for BookTok! In this episode, we kick off our three-part series discussing The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros. With over 13 years of combined academic training in literature and creative writing, we walk listeners through the foundational tools of reading beyond the surface. The book community talks about the "decline of literacy" constantly, but almost no one stops to define what literary literacy actually is or how to build it. This series exists to change that. One of the most common ways readers come to The Joy Luck Club is as an immigrant family drama, a moving novel about mothers and daughters caught between two cultures. And it is that. But Amy Tan built something more architecturally daring: sixteen interlocking stories, four mothers and four daughters, arranged around a mahjong table so the structure itself mirrors the divide it describes. This series digs into both. Whether you first read this novel because it was assigned to you, came to it through the 1993 film and never picked up the book, or only know Jing-mei Woo's name from a Google search, this series will give you the critical lens to engage with Amy Tan's Joy Luck Club with more depth, more confidence, and a lot more to say. Sponsor: VIONIC Use code BOOKTALK at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We examine this classic short story by Herman Melville
Literary theory refers to the set of concepts, principles, and intellectual assumptions used to explain or interpret literary texts. It is not simply about the meaning of a work itself, but about the tools and approaches that reveal what literature can mean and how it functions within culture and society. It provides a rationale for what constitutes literature and guides the act of interpretation, helping readers and critics explore deeper meanings, structures, and contexts.
With this year being the 100th anniversary of Route 66, we thought it might be fun to take a literary roadtrip down the Mother Road and throughout Oklahoma. So on today's podcast we're sharing a little Route 66 history in Oklahoma, and talking about books along the highway (and in a few other parts of the state).
In this podcast, E. L. Chen talks about Sweetside Motel, writing routine, inverting gothic novel expectations, and much more. [3:15] Conversation start/early life lessons. [10:00] Identity, stereotypes, and rebellion. [13:40] First experiences with story/writing in YA, Fantasy, and Horror. [18:30] Authenticity and writing for yourself first. [21:05] Writing routine and time management. [23:30] Drafting, revising, and working in numerous environments. [28:40] Website origins and web design career. [31:15] Book releases and publishing timelines. [34:10] Book promotion and contracts. [35:30] Literary agent journey and querying strategy. [44:55] Sweetside Motel and writing during and about the pandemic. [47:30] COVID consistency in book. [50:25] Inverting gothic novel expectations and locations. [53:45] Chinese-Canadian misconceptions and trip to Hong Kong. Full podcast show notes are available here: https://www.thisishorror.co.uk/tih-671-e-l-chen-on-sweetside-motel-writing-routine-and-inverting-gothic-novel-expectations Support This Is Horror Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thisishorror
Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we are joined by Susan Gooch, a passionate educator and author who has dedicated her life to fostering a love for reading and writing. With roots in Searcy, Arkansas, Susan shares her journey from a dyslexic child struggling with reading to a successful author of the Carrington series. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of education.Susan opens up about her early experiences with reading, the influence of her mother—a reading specialist—and how her struggles shaped her passion for teaching. She discusses the enficance of strong female characters in her books, drawing inspiration from her own lineage of resilient Southern women. As we delve into her Carrington series, Susan reveals the intricate narratives of her characters, highlighting themes of love, compromise, and the complexities of human relationships.Listeners will gain insight into Susan's writing process, her motivations behind creating relatable characters, and her vision for empowering readers through literature. She also shares her upcoming projects, including a new book and a series of short stories designed to accompany her latest work.What You'll Learn in This Episode:- The journey from struggling reader to published author- The importance of strong female characters in literature- Insights into the Carrington series and its themes- The impact of education and reading on personal growth- Tips for fostering a love of reading in childrenFor more information on Susan Gooch and her work, visit her website at susangooch.com and connect with her on social media. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that encourages everyone to embrace the joy of reading and the power of storytelling.Support the show
In 2016, acclaimed Black American author and journalist Ta-Nehisi Coates entered the field of comic books with "Black Panther #1." It met with both fanfare and critique. In a new book, Howard Rambsy II argues that Coates' take on the superhero story raised the profile and understanding of comics as an art form and affected opportunity for other Black writers. Rambsy, a literature professor at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, also talks about the ways Coates' work illuminated the challenges of "attaining" representation in the comic book field.
Literary agent and Print Run podcaster extraordinaire Laura Zats is on to talk about a novel that is the most urban fantasy you can imagine, and yet seems to run towards different traditions and ideas the closer you examine it—Robin McKinley’s award-winning but under-discussed Sunshine. Podcasts, reviews, interviews, essays, and more at the Ancillary Review of Books. Please consider supporting ARB’s Patreon! Guest: Laura Zats Title: Sunshine by Robin McKinley Host: Jake Casella Brookins Music by Giselle Gabrielle Garcia Artwork by Rob Patterson Opening poem by Bhartṛhari, translated by John Brough References: Christopher Buehlman’s Blacktongue Thief & Between Two Fires Peter Rock's Makeshift Emily St. John Mandel’s Station Eleven Totally not the heist film Oceans 11 Newberry Honor & Mythopoeic Award Charlaine Harris’s The Southern Vampire Mysteries/Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood series Kim Harrison Bram Stoker's Dracula Twilight & Buffy the Vampire Slayer Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files series Dunning-Kruger effect McKinley's Deerskin Editor Sharyn November & the Firebird imprint Charles De Lint, Anne Rice, Anita Blake "Contemporary Fantasy" Stephen Graham Jones Grady Hendrix’s The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires & Horrorstör Sheridan Le Fanu’s Carmilla Matt Kirkland’s “Dracula Daily” RS Benedict’s “Everyone is Beautiful and No One is Horny” Lee Mandelo's The Woods All Black Indra Das's The Devourers John Wyndham's The Day of the Triffids The Print Run podcast Erik Hane's “The Fandom Strain”
Host Edith welcomes editor Jennica Dotson to discuss how she became an editor through internships and on-the-job learning, and to explain the differences between developmental editing (big-picture plot, structure, character, and worldbuilding), line editing (stylistic, line-by-line refinement, often including some copy work), and copy editing (grammar, punctuation, and typos). Jennica recommends discovery calls, approaching editors with a completed draft, letting manuscripts rest, revising before line edits, and staying open to edits while keeping authorial voice. They discuss time pressures in traditional publishing, expectations for more polished submissions, and the importance of language consistency (American vs British English). Jennica shares why she specializes in fantasy, notes trends like romantasy and misclassification issues, highlights indie publishing's willingness to take risks, and describes how freelancers find clients through organizations and networking. She recommends “The Last Night at the Telegraph Club” by Malinda Lo.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:41 Becoming an Editor02:57 Editing Types Explained05:13 Offering Multiple Services06:57 Preparing for an Edit10:51 Handling Feedback and Revisions13:24 Why Editing Takes Time14:47 Traditional Publishing Pressures17:12 American vs British English21:59 Fantasy Niche and Specialization26:01 Editor Challenges and Switching Off29:47 Strange Manuscripts and Genre Talk31:56 Holmes From Hudson34:07 Retellings New Perspectives34:55 Fantasy Trends Romantasy38:02 Gender Marketing Bias40:22 YA Themes And Limits42:43 Indie Publishing Daring46:17 Getting Seen Marketing50:08 Recent Read Recommendation53:31 Community And Editors56:49 Wrap Up And FarewellIf you like what we do, you might consider buying us a coffee.https://www.buymeacoffee.com/booklovercom https://ko-fi.com/bookcompanionFollow us here: https://book-lovers-companion.com https://twitter.com/book_companion https://www.facebook.com/ez.fiction.7 https://www.instagram.com/book_companion/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6vyAyrh3zzsxNeexfyU0uAFeedback is always welcome: bookcompanioncontact@gmail.comMusic: English Country Garden by Aaron Kenny Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDcADD4oS5E
Literary agent Don Pape joins me for a conversation about a lifetime in the publishing industry, the sacred work of shaping stories, and how creativity shows up in both the books we write and the ordinary rhythms of our everyday lives. Don shares what it really looks like to walk alongside an author as they steward their message from a rough draft to a published work. We explore the tension between the "striving" of the industry and the "stewarding" of a creative calling, and why art is ultimately an invitation to see God's love in the world around us. Don also shares a deeply personal "thin place" experience: simple pieces of artwork made by his granddaughters—pieces that have become a doorway into prayer, presence, and love. Whether you're an aspiring author or simply someone looking to reconnect with the joy of creating, this conversation is an invitation to trust the process. Resources & Links Pape Commons Order: Art Is How God Loves Us Leave a review of the book on Amazon and Goodreads Share your story: We are doing a call for guest-post submissions on Substack. You can learn more and submit your own essay about a time art opened a door for you by visiting: artistsforjoy.org/artsopendoor I would love to hear about the works of art that have become thin places in your own life. You can share them by submitting to our guest post series via the link above.
Read these poems on the Modern Poetry in Translation website: https://modernpoetryintranslation.com/poem/four-poems-3/ Joshua Edward writes in the introduction: Every Translation Is a Shipwreck Born and raised on an island, I've always dreamed of life at sea, but lacking ‘boat money' and unable to tell a bowline from a marlinspike, I've lamentably remained onshore. Still, I indulge in the idea that the poet's vocation is similar (at least in outline) to that of the sailor. Aren't both considered diminished remnants of romantic and impetuous eras? And don't both occupations hazard fatal depths? These are the waters I'm currently interested in plying, and the poets translated here, Tristan Corbière and Renée Vivien, are well suited to this double dream of poetry and seafaring. Both these poets often take the ocean as their subject, and both are considered what Paul Verlaine called poètes maudits: damned or absolute poets, who've gone to the art's greatest depths. Speaking of damned, it's easy to also view translators as seafarers. Every translator is a voyager returned from a trip, who wants to repeat the experience with others. But this second journey uses only dead reckoning and is never completed, because every translation is a shipwreck. Which is not to say a disaster: at best the translator fools their companions into thinking they arrived at the intended destination. Also good is when the castaways happily forget about the original port of call, or they are inspired to take the journey themselves, to read the text in its original language. At worst the translator inspires a mutiny, and is lashed to the mast, banished, or flogged. I hope that these attempts get across some good measure of the enthusiasm I have for the original poems and for the act of translation itself.
Books take us places (figuratively and literally)! In this episode of the Coffee With Carrie Homeschool Podcast, Carrie sits down with her daughter Francesca De Francisco to explore the magic of books and how they spark literary wanderlust—both taking us on journeys around the world without ever leaving home and inspiring us to actually travel to the places we read about. Together they discuss how stories open doors to new places, cultures, and historical moments and give tons of book recommendations to read aloud with your family. Whether books transport you vicariously or fuel real-life adventures, this conversation offers encouragement and practical inspiration for nurturing a love of reading and exploration in your children and yourself. Pour yourself a cup of coffee, put your feet up, get your suitcase ready, and join Carrie and Francesca for a little coffee and conversation about creating literary wanderlust in your children.Support the showSupport the ShowPurchase A Home Education Handbook: 9 Questions to Ask for Simple & Balanced Home-Based LearningPurchase Homeschool High School: A Handbook for Christian EducationPurchase Just Breathe (and Take a Sip of Coffee): Homeschool Simply & Enjoyably. Schedule a Coffee Date (One-on-One Personalized Coaching Session: Coffee With Carrie Subscribe to Coffee With Carrie email newsletter for FREE Morning Time Plans and monthly tips https://coffeewithcarrie.org Follow on Instagram @coffeewithcarrieconsultant.
In today's episode of The Quiz, we're testing your knowledge on everything from groundbreaking aviation milestones to the pages of classic American literature. Can you answer these? Aviation Pioneers: We look back at a historic, gravity-defying achievement in the skies. Do you know who became the very first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean? Iconic Landmarks: We check out one of the ultimate shopping and entertainment destinations in the country. Do you know which U.S. state is home to the massive Mall of America? White House History: We take a dip into presidential trivia. Can you name the U.S. commander-in-chief who installed the very first swimming pool at the White House? Play. Share. Listen, with FOX Nation Host, Abby Hornacek. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
TEATIME WITH MISS LIZ SERVES: William Bernhardt July 9th | 3 PM EST Title: The Superman Wars: Storytelling, Justice & the Power of Imagination Tagline: Great stories don't just entertain—they challenge us to see justice, humanity, and ourselves in a whole new way. Description: Join Miss Liz for an engaging conversation with award-winning, bestselling author William Bernhardt, whose remarkable literary career spans more than sixty books across legal thrillers, historical fiction, young adult novels, poetry, and writing education. Best known for his beloved Ben Kincaid legal thriller series and the Daniel Pike novels, William's newest release, The Superman Wars, continues his tradition of combining compelling characters, legal insight, and unforgettable storytelling. Beyond writing, William has inspired thousands of aspiring authors through WriterCon, his internationally respected writers conference, writing retreats, podcast, digital magazine, and educational programs. His dedication to helping others succeed has launched the careers of dozens of traditionally published authors. Whether discussing justice, creativity, or the craft of writing, William brings wisdom, humour, and decades of experience to every conversation. Opening: Welcome everyone to another inspiring edition of Teatime with Miss Liz, where every conversation celebrates stories that educate, inspire, and create meaningful connections. Today we're honoured to welcome bestselling author, educator, and literary mentor William Bernhardt. With more than sixty published books, countless literary awards, and a passion for helping writers find their own voices, William has built a career that extends far beyond the pages of his novels. His latest release, The Superman Wars, invites readers into another unforgettable adventure while continuing his lifelong commitment to exceptional storytelling. William, welcome to the Teatime table. Closing: Today's Teatime reminded us that stories have the power to change lives, challenge perspectives, and connect people across generations. William Bernhardt shared how imagination, discipline, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence have shaped an extraordinary career that continues to inspire both readers and writers around the world. Thank you, William, for reminding us that every great story begins with the courage to write the first page. William Bernhardt is an award-winning bestselling author of more than sixty books, including the Ben Kincaid and Daniel Pike legal thriller series. Founder of WriterCon and president of Bernhardt Books, he has mentored countless writers while continuing to publish acclaimed fiction, including his latest novel, The Superman Wars. About William:• Bestselling Author• Creator of the Ben Kincaid and Daniel Pike series• Author of The Superman Wars• Founder of WriterCon• President of Bernhardt Books• Writing Mentor & Educator• Podcast Host One Word That Describes Him Visionary William's TEE: Teaching Excellence Empowerment Helping writers discover their voice while creating stories that inspire generations. Three Words That Share His Story:• Master storyteller• Literary mentor• Lifelong learner#TeatimeWithMissLiz#WilliamBernhardt#TheSupermanWars#WriterCon#MakingADifferenceOneCupAtATime
My guest for today is Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma — an American writer, poet, and translator who has spent more than two decades of his life inside the Tamil language. Thomas first arrived in Madurai in 1998, almost by accident, planning to study Spanish and ecological ethics, and instead found himself apprenticed to a remarkable teacher, Dr. K. V. Ramakoti.That apprenticeship reshaped his entire life, drawing him from spoken Tamil into the world of Sangam poetry, Avvaiyar, and eventually the Tirukkural. His books include Give, Eat, and Live: Poems of Avvaiyar, A Feast for the Tongue, and his celebrated translation The Kural: Tiruvalluvar's Tirukkural, published by Beacon Press and honoured with Tamil Nadu's Ancient Tamil Literature Promotion Award.Alongside his Tamil work, Thomas has spent years translating Juan Rulfo's Spanish classic Pedro Páramo, and he is now writing his own novel, The Pines, about music, adolescence, and time. In our conversation, we talk about his childhood love of books and magic, the strange twist of fate that took him to Tamil Nadu instead of Mexico, and how learning Tamil changed the very way he perceives the world.We also talk about how translation found him — not as a plan, but as an inner necessity to share the poems he had fallen in love with. He speaks about the twelve years his teacher spent quietly nudging him towards translating the Tirukkural, his deep love of one-on-one teaching, and his continuing engagement with contemporary Tamil writers like Perumal Murugan.It is a rich, wide-ranging conversation about language, devotion, and the long, patient work of carrying words across worlds. So settle in, and let's get started with Thomas Hitoshi Pruiksma.To Know more about Thomas's Work, please visit -https://thomaspruiksma.com/If you enjoy Harshaneeyam Podcast please follow the show on Apple, Spotify, or your favourite podcasting platform and leave a review for us. It will help truly help us; and don't forget to Share our podcast link with your other friends who enjoy similar content.To help us provide even more value, using the link given below in the show notes to complete our brief Listener Survey. Your feedback is the secret ingredient that helps us improve and create content tailored to your interests!https://www.harshaneeyam.com/survey/Listener/* Please complete Harshaneeyam Listener Survey using the above link.It would be lovely to have your feedback.***Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Interviewees in interviews conducted by Harshaneeyam Podcast are those of the Interviewees and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Harshaneeyam Podcast. Any content provided by Interviewees is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
Welcome, writers and book lovers. The Bleeders is a podcast about book writing and publishing. Make sure you subscribe to the companion Substack: https://thebleeders.substack.com/welcomeToday's guest is author, writing coach, and sobriety expert Tawny Lara, the author of Dry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, and Hooking Up Without the Booze.In this episode, Tawny pulls back the curtain on her publishing journey—from blogging and viral essays to finding an agent, switching from memoir to more journalistic nonfiction, completely rewriting her proposal, and ultimately selling her book. We get into querying, indie publishing vs. the Big Five, advances, audiobooks, and DIY book publicity. She also shares why every writer needs a newsletter, how she built an effective Substack strategy, the publicity tactics that landed her major media coverage, and why tapping into your existing network is often more powerful than chasing social media algorithms.Plus, Tawny explains how she sold a sobriety card deck to Penguin Random House, why rejection is an essential part of every publishing career, and the simple writing advice that transformed her creative practice.Subscribe to Tawny's Substack Beyond Liquid Courage. Follow her on Instagram @tawnymlara, and buy your copy of Dry Humping on Bookshop.org, Amazon, or wherever books are sold!Get your copy of Courtney's debut memoir Girl Gone Wild from Bookshop.org or Amazon.The Bleeders is hosted by Courtney Kocak. Follow her on Instagram @courtneykocak and Bluesky @courtneykocak.bsky.social. For more, check out her website courtneykocak.com.Courtney is teaching some upcoming classes you might be interested in:Midsummer Pitch Party: https://www.courtneykocak.com/store/midsummerpitchpartySo You Want to Start a Podcast?: https://writingworkshops.com/products/start-podcast-workshop-courtney-kocakEdit & Elevate: Revision Intensive: https://writingworkshops.com/products/edit-elevate-revision-intensive-zoom-seminar-with-courtney-kocakThe Multi-Passionate Writer's Life: https://writingworkshops.com/products/the-multi-passionate-writers-life-zoom-seminar-with-courtney-kocak12 Months to a Full Memoir in Essays Incubator: Write Your Memoir in a Year: https://writingworkshops.com/products/memoir-in-essays-incubator-nonfiction-writing-workshop-online-june-2026How to Build a “Platform” for Writers Who Shudder at the Thought: https://writingworkshops.com/products/how-to-build-a-platform-for-writers-who-shudder-at-the-thought-zoom-seminarStart a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform, Network and Business: https://writingworkshops.com/products/start-a-newsletter-to-supercharge-your-platform-network-business-zoom-seminarLand Big Bylines by Writing for Columns: https://writingworkshops.com/products/land-big-bylines-by-writing-for-columns-zoom-seminar
Hello Protagonists!Welcome to another episode of the Creative, Inspired, ALIVE podcast—where we go behind the scenes with the storytellers shaping our culture.Our guest, Mara Brock Akil, is an award-winning writer, producer, director, and showrunner. At the age of 30, she became the youngest African American showrunner on broadcast network television with her sitcom Girlfriends. She created BET's first drama series, Being Mary Jane, and co-created the romantic drama, Love Is, on OWN. She founded Story27 with Netflix and is currently creating her sixth series, the teen drama Forever. Her debut novel, The Revelation of Dionne Daphne, was just published by Storehouse Voices.Today, we talk about:* the public and private lives of women,* comparing screenwriting and crafting novels,* the magic of female friendships,* our collective healing through story,* and so much more.
Two-time Booker prize-winning author, Margaret Atwood has spent four decades warning what happens when democracy, women's rights and free expression begin to erode. Today, many readers believe the world has caught up with her fiction. In this interview with FRANCE 24's Eve Jackson, the author of The Handmaid's Tale reflects on US President Donald Trump, the expanding book bans in the United States, the rollback of reproductive rights, censorship and why she torched an “unburnable” edition of her most famous novel.
“For any endeavor or enterprise in the creative field, you have to think of it as a job. Even if you only can do it an hour, a day, or two hours a day, even if you have to get up really early in the morning and before the kids are awake.” – Steven PressfieldToday's featured New York Times Bestselling author is a screenplay writer, former US Marine, and longtime student of classical history, Steven Pressfield. Steven and I had a fun on a bun chat about his latest novel, “The Arcadian”, dealing with resistance as a creative, and more!!!Key Things You'll Learn:His remarkable journey to literary success after 30 years of perseveranceThe best way to fight resistanceHow Steven's routine has adapted over the years and the daily ritual that keeps him in a humble, creative mindsetWhat major setback led to Steven creating more successSteven's Site: https://stevenpressfield.com/home/Steven's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B000AQ8R8Q/allbooksThe opening track is titled, “Unknown From M.E. | Sonic Adventure 2 ~ City Pop Remix” by Iridium Beats. To listen to and download the full track, click the following link. https://www.patreon.com/posts/sonic-adventure-136084016 Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awotYou May Also Like…242 – The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield (@James_Redfield): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/242-the-celestine-prophecy-by-james-redfield-james_redfield/1046 – Unlock Artistic Insight & Innovation Through CreativitRy with Dr. Stan Lai: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-1046-unlock-artistic-insight-innovation-through-creativitry-with-dr-stan-lai/880 – Success Insights from a Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author with Christopher Greyson (@Chris_Greyson): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-880-success-insights-from-a-wall-street-journal-bestselling-author-with-christopher-greyson/960 – The Power of the Actor with Ivana Chubbuck (@ivanachubbuck): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-960-the-power-of-the-actor-with-ivana-chubbuck-ivanachubbuck/433 – Ticking Clock: Behind the Scenes at 60 Minutes with Ira Rosen: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-433-ticking-clock-behind-the-scenes-at-60-minutes-with-ira-rosen/670 – The Bestselling Book Formula with Honorée Corder (@Honoree): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-670-the-bestselling-book-formula-with-honoree-corder-honoree/332 – Her Perfect Life with Hank Phillippi Ryan (@HankPRyan): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-332-her-perfect-life-with-hank-phillippi-ryan-hankpryan/1029 – Unlock Your Creativity & Make Life Your Biggest Art Project with Pia Mailhot-Leichter (@pialeichter): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-1029-unlock-your-creativity-make-life-your-biggest-art-project-with-pia-mailhot-leichter-p/301 – Transformative Creativity with Firdaus Kharas (@Culture_Shift): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-301-transformative-creativity-with-firdaus-kharas-culture_shift/#HolidayBonus Ep. – Wisdom Of The Men with Clint Arthur (@clintarthur): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/holidaybonus-ep-wisdom-of-the-men-with-clint-arthur-clintarthur/609 - The Film Director's Bag Of Tricks With Mark W. Travis (@MarkWTravis): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/the-film-directors-bag-of-tricks-with-mark-w-travis-markwtravis/884 – How to Go From Stuck to Unstoppable with Murielle Marie Ungricht: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-884-how-to-go-from-stuck-to-unstoppable-with-murielle-marie-ungricht/983 – How Neuroscience Can Fuel Your Book & Life Success with Sara Connell (@saracconnell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/saracconnell/
This novella--an excerpt of THE PALE KING--was a revelation. Just as its publisher Sarah McNally says in the preface, Wallace's cult-status fame as a challenging writer can be daunting, and his oeuvre is so large, it's hard to know where to begin. This is where to begin! The lecture is probably best heard if you've read The Pale King (and/or this amazing section itself) but I like to think lovers of DFW will get lots out of this even if you haven't read him in years. It was SO GOOD to return to this work: his later, more grounded, warmer, incredibly moving work. In this case, about tax law and radical tedium. Doesn't get better than that.
* Listen on Spotify* Listen on Apple* Listen on Youtube* Listen on Pocketcasts* Book Launch checklist: https://BookHip.com/BDSWRRT* Millionaire Author Mastermind Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/millionaireauthormastermind/* http://hapitalist.com/* Marketing Boot Camp: https://www.skool.com/bookmarketingbootcamp* Marketing Course: https://geni.us/millionaireauthorThis episode begins with a simple catch-up between Lee and Russell, but quickly turns into one of their biggest conversations yet about the future of creative work.Lee shares how she's experimenting with live writing sprints on TikTok after pursuing an ADHD diagnosis, introducing the concept of body doubling and why simply working alongside other people can dramatically improve focus and consistency for many creative minds.From there, the conversation pivots into artificial intelligence, but not in the way most people expect.Instead of debating whether AI is good or bad, Russell argues that creators are asking the wrong question. Rather than asking how AI can help produce more books faster, he explores how AI can unlock entirely new ways for audiences to experience stories through interactive apps, games, codices, workbooks, and other formats that previously required large development teams.That leads into a larger discussion about permission.Neither traditional publishing nor modern technology determines what creators are “allowed” to make anymore. The only real limitations are imagination, willingness to experiment, and understanding the business realities behind each creative decision.The episode also explores one of the most important concepts for building a sustainable creative career:Every creative goal is built from dozens of smaller skills.Whether someone wants to become a podcaster, novelist, filmmaker, or entrepreneur, success isn't about mastering one discipline. It's about gradually stacking complementary skills until seemingly unrelated experiences suddenly converge years later into a career that feels inevitable in hindsight.Throughout the conversation, Lee explains how she coaches authors by breaking seemingly impossible goals into measurable component skills, while Russell emphasizes that many creators fail simply because they confuse different goals, like “finishing a book” versus “writing the perfect book.”The discussion continues into branding, genre, audience expectations, marketing strategy, commercial fiction versus literary fiction, and why understanding your actual goals matters far more than copying someone else's career.By the end, the conversation becomes less about books and more about designing an entire creative life around what genuinely energizes you instead of chasing someone else's definition of success.Topics Covered:* ADHD, body doubling, and productivity through co-working* Live TikTok writing sprints* Building creative momentum through accountability* Why the AI debate has become less interesting than AI's unexplored possibilities* Using AI to create interactive fiction experiences* Games, apps, codices, and alternative storytelling formats* Moving beyond simply writing more books* Escaping the “book-a-month” mindset* Delivering a consistent brand promise* Lessons from Colleen Hoover and her readership* Brand consistency versus creative freedom* Why audiences buy feelings, not formats* Permissionless creativity in the modern publishing world* Teaching yourself instead of waiting for gatekeepers* Everything changes, but nothing is wasted creatively* How unrelated skills compound over time* Why every creative pursuit strengthens future work* The hidden skill tree behind creative careers* Breaking large goals into measurable subskills* Diagnosing bottlenecks in an author's business* Identifying obvious versus non-obvious constraints* Marketing, branding, writing, and sales as separate skills* Goal clarity versus perfectionism* Finishing a book versus endlessly rewriting it* Coaching authors through creative paralysis* Living in the energy of the solution instead of the problem* Chapter-by-chapter developmental editing* Making stories “hookier” without sacrificing quality* Scene goals and narrative momentum* Book marketing bootcamps and implementation coaching* The five marketing levers:* Cover* Description* Audience* Ad creative* Ad copy* Improving conversion instead of increasing production* Hiring coaches to solve specific problems* Defining what “good” actually means* Literary fiction versus commercial fiction* Hook-driven storytelling* Character goals as reader engagement* Matching writing style to audience expectations* Understanding market size versus artistic goals* Commercial realities of genre fiction* Fantasy, romance, literary fiction, YA, and niche genres* Building businesses around niche audiences* Total addressable market* Choosing creative constraints intentionally* Dense fiction versus highly consumable fiction* Writing beautiful prose without sacrificing readability* Generating traffic versus improving conversion* Lessons from James Clear and Atomic Habits* Creating highly shareable nonfiction* The difference between broad-market products and niche products* Serving a small but passionate audience* Designing a creative life around personal values* Investing versus relying solely on book income* Aligning business models with lifestyle goals* Accepting tradeoffs instead of chasing impossible comparisons* Building a career that fits your definition of success This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sixfigureauthorexperiment.com
Readings by Adam Piette and Ágnes Lehóczky. Read the translations of these poems on the Modern Poetry in Translation website: https://modernpoetryintranslation.com/poem/two-poems-12/ Translators Adam Piette and Ágnes Lehóczky write in the introduction: These poems are excerpts from The University Island (forthcoming from And Other Stories), a major work in progress by Hungarian poet István Vörös. The text functions less as a memoir than an anti-memoir—a powerful satire in free verse that chronicles three decades in the trenches of academia. The protagonist, a failed academic and poet, is a tragicomic figure in constant dialogue with his phantom companion, Hermes, the decipherer of the shapeshifting incomprehensible. This inner journey through the history of philosophical hermeneutics echoes the non-conformist souls of twentieth-century literature, reminiscent of Georg Büchner's Lenz, Paul Celan's posthumous phantoms, and the morose narrators of Thomas Bernhard. Vörös depicts the slow physical and psychological collapse of a ‘failed lecturer' challenging a politicised, devalued system. It is a sobering critique of an institutional ‘madhouse' where the academic becomes the very agent of academia's demise. The work is a fiercely nihilistic exploration of annihilation, documenting the destruction of the cultural agora and the natural world alike. Yet, Vörös's genius lies in his ability to present a hyper-real comic world with a humour that is both grotesque and hyperbolic. The narrative occupies a thin line between fact and caricature, where surreal decapitations are viscerally, comically real. Translating this work was a collaborative effort born of shared experience in the British and Hungarian academic systems. We were compelled by its moral weight and its interrogation of the contemporary poem's raison d'être. Ultimately, the book asks a vital question: do we surrender to a system that reduces us to puppets, or do we believe that literature remains powerful enough to push back against institutional hypocrisy?
Amy breaks down Japan's most prestigious literary prizes — starting with the twin titans of the Japanese book world, the Akutagawa and Naoki Prizes, both announced twice a year, every January and July, on the very same day. Up your knowledge ahead of the next announcement of the winners on July 15, at around 6 pm! Most Japanese literature fans can probably guess who the Akutagawa Prize is named after (hint: Rashomon) — but how many know who the Naoki Prize honors? And while the Tanizaki and Mishima Yukio Prizes might be obvious, can you guess what the Noma Prize is for? Or what genre dominates that newspaper-sponsored heavyweight, the Yomiuri Prize? Amy sorts them all out — the history, the famous winners, and the controversies, including the AI scandal that rocked the Akutagawa Prize when 2024 winner Rie Kudan admitted to using ChatGPT in her prize-winning novel. Plus: how Japan's prize culture differs fundamentally from English-language institutions like the Booker Prize, Pulitzer or Nobel Prize for Literature — and why winning in Japan can launch a career instead of just crowning one. The Books on Asia Podcast is co-produced with Plum Rain Press. Podcast host Amy Chavez is author of The Widow, the Priest, and the Octopus Hunter: Discovering a Lost Way of Life on a Secluded Japanese Island. and Amy's Guide to Best Behavior in Japan.The Books on Asia website posts book reviews, podcast episodes and episode Show Notes. Subscribe to the BOA podcast from your favorite podcast service. Subscribe to the Books on Asia newsletter to receive news of the latest new book releases, reviews and podcast episodes.
Welcome to Academia Unlocked, our literary deep-dive series on Book Talk for BookTok! In this episode, we kick off our three-part series discussing The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros. With over 13 years of combined academic training in literature and creative writing, we walk listeners through the foundational tools of reading beyond the surface. The book community talks about the "decline of literacy" constantly, but almost no one stops to define what literary literacy actually is or how to build it. This series exists to change that. One of the most common ways readers come to The House on Mango Street is as a coming-of-age story, a slim, lyrical novel about a girl named Esperanza growing up in a Chicago barrio. And it is that. But Sandra Cisneros was doing something far more precise on the page: building a novel out of vignettes, each fragmented story complete on its own and devastating in accumulation, to capture a girlhood caught between the house she wants to escape and the house she can't stop carrying inside her. This series is about making space for both of those readings at once. Whether you first read this novel in a middle school classroom, came back to it as an adult and found it completely different, or only know Esperanza Cordero's name from a syllabus you never finished, this series will give you the critical lens to engage with Sandra Cisneros's Mango Street with more depth, more confidence, and a lot more to say. Share your thoughts for a chance to be featured! Submit them at booktalkforbooktok.com for a future mini-episode or exclusive Patreon discussion. Support the Show: Patreon: patreon.com/booktalkforbooktok Merch: Etsy Store Follow Us on Social: Instagram: @BookTalkForBookTok TikTok: @BookTalkForBookTok YouTube: @BookTalkForBookTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ben Nichols of Lucero (@benlucero74) is on the show for this Part 2 of interviews from Winnetka Music Festival, a local Chicago fest, which took place June 19-20!!Ben and I reflect on his many reasons for celebration these days including his new solo album entitled “In the Heart of the Mountain,” his first stand-alone effort since 2009, recently turning the ripe old age of 51, and all of this as Lucero quickly approaches their 30th year as a band. Ben's a super affable guy -- refreshingly self-aware with a keen wit and a great sense of humor -- and he talks to me about the origins of Lucero and his own musical background influenced by the DIY scene in Little Rock. We also discuss the deep Memphis roots of the band, the influence of the South in Ben's writing, and how raising a daughter as a touring artist has made all these landmarks that much more special. This is a terrific interview, and we shared tons of laughs. You're going to love this one!! =======================================00:00 - Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg04:25 - Introduction and Ben Nichols' recent performances04:48 - The story behind Nichols' solo album "In the Heart of the Mountain"05:44 - The role of collaboration with musicians like Morgan Eve Swain and Corey Brann07:01 - Exploring different sonic textures outside of Lucero07:47 - The emotional tone of the solo project: somber, pensive, and dark09:01 - How solo work influences band dynamics and cohesion10:10 - The appeal of melancholy and sad songs in music11:15 - The musical elements that evoke deep feelings in songwriting12:05 - Voice, vocal timbre, and the natural growl of Nichols' singing style12:36 - Balancing the fun of rock and roll with somber, introspective tones13:25 - The story of how Nichols became a singer and guitarist in his band14:15 - The physicality and modern sound of Lucero's music14:44 - Genre-bending nature of Lucero's albums and the band's resilience15:37 - Nichols' Arkansas origins and their influence on his songwriting16:39 - The nostalgic connection to Arkansas' landscapes and history18:14 - Literary influences: Blood Meridian, Southern Gothic traditions, and Frank Stanford19:44 - The history and cultural depth of Arkansas, including civil rights and Native American stories21:16 - The beauty and darkness in Arkansas and Memphis environments21:45 - The DIY punk scene in Little Rock and its influence on Nichols24:38 - The impact of historical events like Little Rock Central High School desegregation27:55 - Life as a father, blending family and artistic pursuits29:46 - Memphis' musical legacy, Sun Studio, and influence on Lucero32:30 - Recording locations and production choices shaping Lucero's sound35:46 - Why "Among the Ghosts" remains Nichols' favorite album36:49 - The evolution of songwriting and how life milestones impact inspiration39:06 - The band's upcoming projects and the future of Lucero42:01 - Reflection on a nearly 30-year career, industry changes, and ongoing passion44:02 - Episode Wrap-up with Host Josh Rosenberg=======================================For more information on Roadcase:https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.comOr contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.comRoadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer
Read the these poems on the Modern Poetry in Translation website: modernpoetryintranslation.com/poem/three-poems-5/ Norman Erikson Pasaribu writes in the translator's note: The translation source of these poems was published in Ni Made Purnama Sari's collection, Kawitan (2016). The title is a polysemant; it can mean (1) the ancestors, (2) the beginning, (3) the ceremony to celebrate the ancestors, (4) the chronology of how our ancestors became our ancestors. Ni Made Purnama Sari navigates the vast space that confines and connects these definitions. Transporting Purnama Sari's poetic game can be a challenge. Often she freely breaks from the rules of meaning, by erasing subjects, or switching to older Indonesian literary forms or expressions. For example, the poem ‘A Farewell from Paslaan, Apeldoorn'—which is about the great Toba Batak poet Sitor Situmorang—instantly shifts into the pantoum form in its fourth stanza. Bali is one of the most culturally exploited areas in Indonesia. It's a global tourist destination, historically designed by the colonial Dutch regime. This has led to extreme settler problems. The native Balinese have lost their well-being to the dramatic rise of prices, losing their land over the massive demand for villas built on their ancestral lands. Meanwhile, widely published narratives about Bali in the English-speaking world have mostly been produced from the perspective of the privileged Western eyes that romanticise Balinese culture as ‘the last paradise' to eternalise the capitalistic tourism industry. Ni Made Purnama Sari's Kawitan, on the other hand, rebels against these dictations. Her poems discuss Balinese lives by refusing to be ‘a Balinese'. She's not a Balinese who's being visited; she's a Balinese who's visiting. She traces a connection between Bali to the greater Nusantara and the rest of the world to produce a form of global poetic empathy.
Mike and Mark examine the shrinking appetite for reading actual books in book form, recalling the reading assignments of their youth, and their experiences writing books themselves. ---- M and M EXTRA: Two iconic talk radio hosts. One unfiltered daily conversation. No scripts. No spin. Just Mike Gallagher and Mark Davis breaking down the news the way it should be — with decades of experience and zero apologies. If you love smart unscripted talk show chemistry, you’re in the right place. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When I came across a new short story by Ben Lerner, an audio version of the story read by Lerner, an interview with Lerner about the short story AND a nonfiction piece by Lerner related to the story, I felt like I'd entered a very Lernerian world. Tune in for a quick ten minutes that will convince you to hunt down out "The Readers." Not only is this the very best prose, but the pieces also combine to provide a fat PRIZE at the end of that hunt. NO READING NECESSARY!
Mike and Mark examine the shrinking appetite for reading actual books in book form, recalling the reading assignments of their youth, and their experiences writing books themselves. ---- M and M EXTRA: Two iconic talk radio hosts. One unfiltered daily conversation. No scripts. No spin. Just Mike Gallagher and Mark Davis breaking down the news the way it should be — with decades of experience and zero apologies. If you love smart unscripted talk show chemistry, you’re in the right place. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Literary Giants of the New England Renaissance. Guest: Bruce Nichols. This segment explores the intense relationship between Hawthorne and Melville, who dedicated Moby Dick to Hawthorne. While Ralph Waldo Emersonoften criticized their dark worldviews, these authors, alongside Walt Whitman and Margaret Fuller, were instrumental in inventing a uniquely original and enduring American literary voice. 91775 BATTLE OF CONCORD
The Literary Legacy and Final Days of the Alcotts. Guest: Bruce Nichols. Following the success of Little Women, Alcott resisted fan demands for her protagonist to marry Laurie, choosing an independent path. As the circle aged, both Emerson and Bronson Alcott suffered significant cognitive decline, with Louisa providing essential financial and personal support until her death in 1888. 12HAWTHORNE'S WAYSIDE
Bruce Nichols. Biographer Bruce Nichols explores the complex literary relationship between Herman Melville and Nathaniel Hawthorne. He discusses Melville's development of Moby Dick, their contrasting writing styles, and the mutual influence found in their journals.EMERSON OLD MANSE
Nathaniel Hawthorne and the Literary Circle of Concord. Guest: Bruce Nichols. Bruce Nichols explores Nathaniel Hawthorne's move to Concord and his complex relationship with Transcendentalists like Emerson. Unlike the optimistic Emerson, Hawthorne's fiction focused on human tragedy and the presence of evil. He struggled financially, often competing with popular "scribbling women" for book sales while publishing short stories to make ends meet. 11