Podcasts about literary analysis

Athena Liu had everything Juniper Hayward wanted... and then she died. and so begins the story for Juniper 'June' Hayward, our completely despicable and unhinged (white) protagonist who can't. stop. lying. in this month's episode, we dig into Yellowface by R. F. Kuang. we talk about books written about influencers in the age of influencers, the murky and confusing connections between fiction and reality, and what could make a book with such an unlikeable protagonist so compulsively readable. throughout the episode we touch on cultural appropriation and ask the question: who gets to tell what story?synopsis music by James Minorsend us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

What is the meaning of piety and how does it resonate with us today? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, the team dives into the ancient and timeless concept of piety, exploring its role in classical literature. From the loyalty of Antigone to the sacrificial love of Aslan, we examine how this forgotten virtue shapes heroes and stories.   Shop Memoria Press Literature right here! https://www.memoriapress.com/literature-poetry/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=168   *What We're Reading* from This Episode:  _The Portrait of a Lady_—Henry James (Martin)  _The Flaming Forrest_—James Oliver Curwood (Paul)  _Wind and Truth_—Brandon Sanderson (Ian)   _Basic Economics_—Thomas Sowell (Ian) 

If you were alive in the 2000s you knew three things:Renee Zellweger is a horrifically misguided casting choice for our British icon Bridget JonesThe character Bridget Jones is roughly the size of a houseColin Firth and Hugh Grant are hot  After reading and discussing Bridget Jones's Diary for a previous podcast episode, we decided it's only fair that we dive into the 2000s film adaptation of Helen Fielding's classic novel. From casting choices to the long standing (potentially fictional) feud between the two male leads, no stone is left unturned! What twists and spins can the glitz and glamour of Hollywood add to this already classic tale?send us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

this episode we are taking a dive into the diary that defined a generation! for our April book and the theme "haha that's so funny", we're talking about Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding. we spend some time cringing at our own adolescent diary entries and talk feminism, fad diets and try to decide if this novel is a depressing glimpse into the hive mind of the 90s or an optimistic, progressively feminist masterpiece.send us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

welcome to our latest talk lit, get hit bonus chapter! in this episode we attempt to disentangle our thoughts and feelings on the supposed rise of anti-intellectualism in the literary world. we discuss the modern manifestations of this ancient concept -  trope titles, simplistic narratives, audiobooks vs physical books, social media echo chamber driven publishing and a resistance to critical thinking. we discuss the ever-present question - can reading ever, truly be “not political” and what can we do to change our reading and consumption habits?mentioned in this episode:@andrearaereads - https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSrRd8A6P/@bookishwithb - https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSrRenYcr/@flexmami - https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSrRecUm3/Australia Reads SurveyTolkien on TikToksend us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

Dan Corder is joined by Dr. Ally Louks, the English literary academic whose ground-breaking PhD dissertation, Olfactory Ethics: The Politics of Smell in Modern and Contemporary Prose, went viral on social media. Dr. Louks shares the unexpected journey of her research gaining public attention and unpacks why scent, often overlooked in literary analysis, holds deep political and cultural significance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In every great story, there's an outsider. The Other has been a defining theme in literature for centuries, shaping everything from Gothic horror to modern fantasy. Red Széll of My Life in Books explores the role of The Other in fiction, why it captivates us, and how it continues to evolve in storytelling today. AMI Audiobook Review is broadcast on AMI-audio in Canada and publishes three new podcast episodes a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.Follow AMI Audiobook Review on YouTube & Instagram!We want your feedback!Be that comments, suggestions, hot-takes, audiobook recommendations or reviews of your own… hit us up! Our email address is: audiobookreview@ami.caAbout AMIAMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+Learn more at AMI.caConnect with Accessible Media Inc. online:X /Twitter @AccessibleMediaInstagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audioFacebook at @AccessibleMediaIncTikTok @AccessibleMediaInc

Review 1: The Wager by David Grann is a meticulously researched narrative immersing readers in the harsh realities of 18th-century sailing, offering a vivid portrayal of maritime life. Aamer and Jacob sift through why it's difficult connecting to characters in this book, and explain the emotional toll of its intense, male-dominated atmosphere.Review 2: Set in the deep south, All-American Muslim Girl by Nadine Jolie Courtney follows Allie Abraham, a teenager grappling with her Muslim identity in a polarized American society. Aamer Khan recaps the opening scene of this book, which encapsulates anxiety, stereotypes, and fears in an incredibly poignant way.Books discussed in this episode are:The Wager by David GrannOut on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-YoungAll American Muslim Girl by Nadine Jolie Courtney AMI Audiobook Review is broadcast on AMI-audio in Canada and publishes three new podcast episodes a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.Follow AMI Audiobook Review on YouTube & Instagram!We want your feedback!Be that comments, suggestions, hot-takes, audiobook recommendations or reviews of your own… hit us up! Our email address is: audiobookreview@ami.caAbout AMIAMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+Learn more at AMI.caConnect with Accessible Media Inc. online:X /Twitter @AccessibleMediaInstagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audioFacebook at @AccessibleMediaIncTikTok @AccessibleMediaInc

Danielle McLaughlin reviews We'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida, a unique narrative of a transient clinic offering cats as solutions to personal dilemmas. We also examine the portrayal of cats in other literary works, namely Japanese literature, highlighting the animals' metaphorical roles.AMI Audiobook Review is broadcast on AMI-audio in Canada and publishes three new podcast episodes a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Follow AMI Audiobook Review on YouTube & Instagram! We want your feedback! Be that comments, suggestions, hot-takes, audiobook recommendations or reviews of your own… hit us up!  Our email address is: audiobookreview@ami.ca About AMI AMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI's vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal. Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+ Learn more at AMI.ca Connect with Accessible Media Inc. online: - X /Twitter @AccessibleMedia - Instagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audio - Facebook at @AccessibleMediaInc - TikTok @AccessibleMediaInc

In this episode of Panel Chewing Pick of the Week, hosts Steve and Jarrod discuss various comic book series, focusing on their reading experiences and the themes within the stories. They explore the appeal of origin stories, review specific titles like Absolute Batman and Drawing Blood, and delve into the nuances of character development and storytelling in comics. The conversation also touches on the impact of fame, the challenges of rebooting classic characters, and the unique perspectives offered by independent comics. In this conversation, Steve and Jarrod delve into various comic book reviews, exploring the complexities of storytelling, adaptations, and unique concepts within the medium. They discuss the impact of anthologies, the future of superhero narratives, and the significance of character-driven stories. The dialogue highlights both the successes and failures of adaptations, the importance of presentation in comics, and the evolving landscape of the comic book industry.Send us a messageSupport the showFilm Chewing Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2235582/followLens Chewing on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lenschewingSpeculative Speculations: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/speculative-speculationsSupport the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/7EQ7XWFUP6K9EJoin Riverside.fm: https://riverside.fm/?via=steve-l

Writers of quiet, character-driven or "literary" stories often ask me if all this story theory stuff applies to them, or if it's only for "commercial" fiction. Believe me when I say that it's even more important and in this episode of the podcast, I explain why. Meanwhile, Melanie conducted an experiment this week. She wanted to discover how knowing the ending impacted the tension of a story. Does it kill the tension or enhance it? What she learned may surprise you. -V."Our jobs, when we're writing a novel, is to grab our readers' attention early, as early as humanly possible." - Melanie HillRelated Story Nerd EpisodesSeason 6 - Empathy  + StakesCrazy Stupid Love (Season 13, Episode  1304) For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

This episode is packed with fun book recommendations perfect for new readers, offering a mix of genres that will spark a love for reading! Hosts Susie and Kylee share their all-time favorite reads, clever tips for picking the right books, and have a blast chatting about the highs and lows of starting a reading journey.Here's what you'll get:• Kickoff to our mid-month mini episode – Short, sweet, and filled with bookish goodness!• Perfect book picks for beginners – Easy-to-love recommendations to jumpstart your reading habit.• Holiday romance vibes with "Wreck the Halls" – A festive, swoon-worthy read for cozying up during the holidays.• Getting hooked again with the "After" series – How this dramatic series can reignite your passion for reading!• Suspense you can't put down: "The Perfect Marriage" – A thriller that'll keep you guessing until the very end.• Psychological twists in "The Silent Patient" – A mind-bending read you'll want to devour in one sitting.• Magical world of YA fantasy with "Powerless" – A fantasy adventure that's perfect for young and adult readers alike!• Cowboys and romance by Elsie Silver – Hot, steamy, and full of heart—cowboy romance at its best!• Nostalgic feels with "Twilight" – Remembering the book that started the vampire craze.• Thrills galore in "The Chain" – A fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller you won't want to miss.• The joy of reading for fun – Why it's all about enjoying what you read, no pressure!Don't miss the next episode, and let us know what books or topics you'd love to hear about next time!Support the showEditing done by Connor Luther @clfilms.coMusic by @thundercatlouisMERCH SHOP HERE

Flowers for Algernon is a book I believe everyone should read. In this episode, I discuss the major themes of the novel and why it became my favorite read of 2024. With Dr. Martin Jacobsen's help, we examine the ethical and emotional questions the book raises and offer strategies for navigating its deeper ideas. If you're looking for a meaningful story that will leave a lasting impression, this episode is for you.Send Me a Text Message with Your QuestionsIMPORTANT LINKS:

In this archive episode, we revisit our study of FATAL ATTRACTION which first aired as episode 5 of season 7. I was studying character revelation and Melanie was studying worldbuilding, but what I find most fascinating about this movie is that, viewed through a modern lens, it's unclear who the antagonist really is. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode, until then, Happy New Year! -V. For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

In this conversation, Steve and Jarrod reflect on their reading experiences in 2024, sharing their favorite books and discussing various themes and insights from their readings. They explore a range of genres, including sci-fi, fantasy, and non-fiction, while also touching on the emotional impact of literature and the importance of storytelling. In this engaging conversation, Steve and Jarrod delve into their top book recommendations of the year, exploring a variety of genres including novellas, science fiction, and fantasy. They discuss the impact of literary classics, the reimagining of Arthurian legends, and the nuances of character development in storytelling. The dialogue highlights the significance of unique narratives and the joy of discovering new perspectives in literature, culminating in a recap of their favorite reads and reflections on their reading journeys.Send us a messageSupport the showFilm Chewing Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2235582/followLens Chewing on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lenschewingOn VERO: https://vero.co/lenschewingSpeculative Speculations: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/speculative-speculationsSupport the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/7EQ7XWFUP6K9EJoin Riverside.fm: https://riverside.fm/?via=steve-l

this episode we are bringing the cringe and chaos of a work christmas party to talk lit, get hit podcast for our annual “talk lit, get lit” drinking and podcasting extravaganza. for our last bonus chapter of the year, we are discussing none other than life and death by Stephenie Meyer. the booktok twilight renaissance continues as we pull apart the literary masterpiece that was promised to be midnight sun but instead ended up as a gender bent twilight reimagining.  we drink spiced ginger beers, crunch on pebble ice, clink glasses, demand justice for bella and have lots to say about the stars of the show - beaufort swan and edythe cullen.send us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

While I'm teaching my kids to surf during our summer beach holiday, and Valerie is shovelling out from a winter storm, we're bringing you a throwback episode from season 6 where we studied stakes and empathy. Based on Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew", "10 Things I Hate About You" is packed with lessons about what not to do. We'll be back with a brand new episode on January 8. Until then, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays story nerds! - M."Stakes equals object of desire plus consequences." Melanie Hill For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Give your students six options to create graphic organizers and track the patterns, topics, and motifs of a poem, short story, novel, or play. Posters are a great way to get students out of their seats by collaborating, presenting, organizing their ideas and quotes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scott-cameron6/support

It's that time again! We've reached the end of the season and that means Melanie and I are wrapping up all our a-ha moments and lessons learned about writing exposition and creating character arcs. Plus we've got a special surprise coming for you and we talk about it in this episode to be sure to listen all the way to the end! - V."The closer a scene and its exposition are to real life, the easier it is to make it invisible." - Melanie HillRelated Story Nerd EpisodesSeason 12: Exposition + Character Arcs For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

In this conversation, the participants delve into the works of H.P. Lovecraft, exploring his significant contributions to horror literature, particularly the Cthulhu mythos. They discuss key stories, the evolution of the mythos, personal experiences with Lovecraft's works, and the impact of his writing style. Themes of madness, insignificance, and the role of characters are examined, alongside the portrayal of violence and horror. The discussion also touches on Lovecraft's influence on modern media and the legacy of his mythos in contemporary storytelling. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the works of H.P. Lovecraft, focusing on key stories such as 'The Dunwich Horror' and 'The Whisperer in Darkness.' They explore the themes of cosmic horror, the influence of Lovecraft on modern horror literature, and the adaptability of his mythos across various media. The discussion highlights the unique elements of Lovecraft's storytelling, including folk horror aspects and the significance of characters like scholars and dogs in his narratives. The speakers also reflect on the legacy of Lovecraft's work and its impact on contemporary writers and role-playing games.Find Jose: https://www.youtube.com/@JosesAmazingWorldsFind John: http://www.john-houlihan.net/Send us a textSupport the showPageChewing.comPAGECHEWING: Comics & Manga PodcastFilm Chewing PodcastLens Chewing on YouTubeSpeculative Speculations PodcastBuy me a coffeeLinktreeJoin Riverside.fm

In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss their strategies for unwinding on weekends, the impact of literary fiction on their reading habits, and the distinction between contemporary and classic literature. They reflect on the challenges of discovering new books in a saturated market and the importance of reading material that challenges and enriches their understanding of literature. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of standing out in a crowded literary market, the impact of transformative literature on readers, and how discussions about books can enhance reading experiences. They explore the SF Masterworks series and its significance in understanding classic science fiction, while also reflecting on the enduring legacy of 'Lord of the Rings' and its influence on modern fantasy literature. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community in reading and the value of diverse literary experiences. The hosts delve into various themes surrounding literature, including the subjective nature of book reviews, the impact of enjoyment on literary criticism, and the complexities of adapting books into television series. They explore hot takes on popular books, the challenges of rating literature, and the nuances of grimdark fantasy. The discussion emphasizes the importance of personal experience in reviews and the performative aspect of sharing opinions in the book community.Find Chris: https://www.youtube.com/@TheChronicleofChrisFind Jarrod: https://www.youtube.com/@thefantasythinkerSend us a textSupport the showPageChewing.comPAGECHEWING: Comics & Manga PodcastFilm Chewing PodcastLens Chewing on YouTubeSpeculative Speculations PodcastBuy me a coffeeLinktreeJoin Riverside.fm

Pippa and KJ are back again, and this time discussing Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and its 2021 adaptation directed by David Lowery. Listen on as we examine what it means to adapt or translate a poem whose original author has been lost time, and bringing your own biography to the text. Website: https://adaptordiepod.wixsite.com/mysite Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/adaptordiepod Cover art by Jess Rubio. Music by Isabel Forden. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight translated by Simon Armitage In Our Time - Podcast - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0001kr8 Indiewire: David Lowery Almost Quit Filmmaking Before ‘Green Knight' Release - https://www.indiewire.com/features/general/the-green-knight-david-lowery-interview-1234654659/ Vanity Fair: Director David Lowery on The Green Knight's Eerie Influences - https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2021/07/the-green-knight-david-lowery-preview-dev-patel-willow-influences

this episode we dip into the dark, mysterious and deeply online realms of fan fiction to tackle one of the most popular and controversial fan fictions of all time - Manacled by SenLinYu. we discuss the enduring appeal of Dramione, the good girl x bad boy trope, and navigating a post-J.K. Rowling Harry Potter World. special mentions to the internet's most controversial husband Lucky-Blue Smith, Draco Malfoy as a toothpick chewer and one of the Nine Network's finest accomplishments - Sea Patrol. send us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!somehow, we're getting close to the end of the year and are looking at talk lit, get hit programming for 2025. this year we made some changes to our podcast line-up based on the results of the 2023 listener survey. we're seeking feedback on how these changes have worked for you and if you have any other ideas or suggestions for how we can make talk lit, get hit even better please let us know your thoughts here!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

this episode has us feeling spooked to the core as we dip our toes into the bone-chilling waters of the mystery/thriller genre. for the month of October we are reading A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson and asking ourselves the age old question: how spooky is too spooky? we explore a variety of accents, apologise for past and present (and future) judgements on American listeners, talk dead dogs, precocious teens, the audiobook listening experience and the pitfalls of Young Adult fiction.books mentioned in this episode:A Good Girl's Guide to Murder - Holly JacksonEileen - Otessa MoshfeghBig Little Lies - Liane MoriartyNone of This is True - Lisa JewelThe Girl With the Dragon Tattoo - Steig LarssonRosemary's Baby - Ira LevinStone Cold Fox - Rachel Coller CroftDarling Girls - Sally HepworthPretty Girls - Karin SlaughterThe Secret History - Donna TarttSharp Object - Gillian FlynnLittle Fires Everywhere - Celeste Ng synopsis music by Francesco Biondisend us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!somehow, we're getting close to the end of the year and are looking at talk lit, get hit programming for 2025. this year we made some changes to our podcast line-up based on the results of the 2023 listener survey. we're seeking feedback on how these changes have worked for you and if you have any other ideas or suggestions for how we can make talk lit, get hit even better please let us know your thoughts here!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

Join Michael Knowles as he takes you on a deep dive into Dante Alighieri's masterpiece, “The Divine Comedy.” In this video, Michael unpacks the epic journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven, exploring the profound themes, rich symbolism, and timeless lessons woven into Dante's incredible narrative. Michael gave this speech at the Intercollegiate Studies Institute. Go check them out at http://isi.org/ and their official YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/@educatingforliberty?si=qTp_eaE8vMTr44kY

The Rolling Stone's song ‘You Can't Always Get What You Want,' is my earworm this season. This week, I started to pick apart how wants, needs and arcs are connected. Dorian Gray is a classic cautionary tale about selling your soul. Dorian arrives in London as a beautiful but naive young man and dies with a rotten and decrepit soul - he is unredeemable. Dorian gets what he wants, but he doesn't get what he needs because there are no consequences for his actions. Understanding how wants, needs and character arcs is an essential story tool. Good exposition is invisible. Valerie highlights how exposition is masterfully delivered and where it fails. Exposition is all about information management - the what and the how. -M“Understanding wants and needs is important for story arcs because they determine the protagonist's motivations and actions.” Melanie HillRelated Story Nerd EpisodesThe Woman King (Season 8 Episode 2)The Social Network (Season 12 Episode 1) For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

one slump to rule them all, one slump to find them. one slump to bring them all and in the darkness bind them. if you, like us, have found yourself caught in the shackles of a mid-year reading slump then find comfort in this episode. we discuss our respective months-long slumps, the perfect formula to finding a book that will lift us out of the murky depths of literary ambivalence and try to define what exactly it is that makes a book a real stinker and the circumstances that lead to a slump in the first place. books mentioned:big little lies - lianne moriartythe bad beginning - lemony snicket the perks of being a wallflower - stephen chboskygreen dot - madeleine greylove and virtue - diana reidthe rachel incident - caroline o'donoghueolive kitteridge - elizabeth strout  no hard feelings - genevieve novakthe paper palace - miranda cowly-hellertwilight - stephenie meyerthe goldfinch - donna tarttthe list - yomi adagokethe imaginary friend - steven chboskythe burning chambers - kate mossethe white album - joan didionthe luminaries - elena cattona court of silver flames - sarah j. maasall the light we cannot see - anthony doerrmidnight sun - stephenie meyer    send us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

this episode we dive into the immaculately shiny and mirrored world of Sally Thorne's debut novel, The Hating Game. this book won the vote for our Australian fiction month and we are left to answer the question: will the charms of an Australian author be enough to save this book from our better judgement? we talk smurfs, the tiny girl x big man trope, in appropriate office behaviour, weigh in on the Goodreads reviews and Bridget makes an elaborate analogy involving a horse blanket. have we finally found an enemies-to-lovies romance novel to crack open our cold, cynical hearts? or will the hating game end up as just another book we love to hate?articles mentioned: Meet Sally Thornesynopsis music by Oleksii Kaplunskyj  send us questions, things you want us to speak about or just say hi!choose our next podcast read by going here and voting in the first week of each month!make sure you subscribe to hear our groundbreaking thoughts as soon as they are unleashed. if you want to be on the same page as us, follow us at talklit.gethit on Instagram and TikTok.theme music born from the creative genius of Big Boi B.talk lit, get hit are reading and recording on Giabal, Jagera, Jarowair & Turrbal lands. we acknowledge the cultural diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay respect to Elders past, present and future. always was, always will be.

Literary analysis shouldn't be a cold dissection that increases the distance between the reader and the text, but rather a way for the reader to more deeply engage with the text. In today's episode, Julie lays out Brave Writer's approach to teaching literary analysis and writer's craft to your kids. This is a rebroadcast of a training webinar.Literary analysis and noticing a writer's craft can start before your child even learns how to read, Julie explains. Daily read-aloud time, with pauses to notice feelings about the text and guess what comes next, builds your child's critical thinking skills. Literary analysis doesn't need to be bound to books either–using a remote while watching TV shows or movies can work in much the same way.Julie then goes through each age bracket, showing how literary analysis can build a deeper love of literature and greater self-awareness.If you find this episode helpful, be sure to check out our Brave Writer 101 training, where we coach you on giving kinder, more meaningful writing instruction to your child.Resources:Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that's sure to grab and keep your child's attention.Find “Becoming a Critical Thinker” in the Brave Writer Book Shop.Check out all class descriptions here. Take a look at the Braver Writer fall class schedule. Sign up for Brave Writer 101. Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684Connect with Julie:Instagram: @juliebravewriterThreads: @juliebravewriterTwitter: @bravewriterFacebook: facebook.com/bravewriterConnect with Melissa:Website: melissawiley.comSubstack: melissawiley.substack.comInstagram: @melissawileybooksTwitter: @melissawileyProduced by NOVA Media

Your reader doesn't have to like the protagonist but she does have to empathize with him because if empathy is absent, your story is in trouble. In this episode Melanie and I study conflict triangles and narrative drive, but we also have an interesting side conversation about empathy and likeability. If you're writing an unlikeable character, or if you're writing a quiet, character-driven story, this episode is for you. -V"The protagonist does not have to be likable, but you've got to be careful that you don't place the reader's empathy on another character." - Valerie Francis  For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

So many podcasts!I thought I could make one podcast episode where I talked to some folks who podcast about horror, and it would be a one-stop-shop for folks looking for a new favorite commute time killer (hmm. commute-time killer? commute time-killer?)Well, as is often the case, it wasn't until I was in the middle of it that I realized two things:* There are so many podcasts talking about horror books.* Podcasters love to talk - so my 15-20 minute target often ended up going way longer than that.* (I know I said two, but heck this deserves a bullet) There's a ton of podcasts where the only topic is Stephen King and his books.Episode OneClick above to check out the first episode, if you haven't already. For this first installment, You'll hear from Stephanie Gagnon from BOOKS IN THE FREEZER, followed by Michael David Wilson from THIS IS HORROR.The GuestsBooks In The Freezer - Stephanie GagnonThis is Books in the Freezer, a podcast dedicated to the deliciously disturbing world of horror fiction. Our topical, bi-weekly episodes will cover those scary books that you might want to put in the freezer. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss any of our recommendations!This Is Horror - Michael David WilsonThe This Is Horror Podcast is a weekly show for readers, writers, and creators hosted by Michael David Wilson and Bob Pastorella. We interview writers, artists, publishers, editors, and creatives every week. We have interviewed over 100 creatives including Chuck Palahniuk, Joe Hill, Joe R. Lansdale, Charlaine Harris, Ellen Datlow, David Moody, Jennifer Lynch, Gemma Files, and Josh Malerman.Episode TwoNeil McRobert kicks off the second episode, talking about his well respected podcast TALKING SCARED. Max Booth III follows, always fun to talk to Max, and we get into the various podcast projects they have going on. Finally, I included myself in this series - not out of vanity, but rather, in case a listener came to these episodes from an outside audience, I thought they might be curious about what I get up to at the ARC PARTY, so I brought in backup to interview me about this humble effort.The GuestsTalking Scared - Neil McRobertConversations with the biggest names in horror fiction. A podcast for horror readers who want to know where their favorite stories came from ... and what frightens the people who wrote them.Ghoulish & Dog Ears - Max Booth IIIGHOULISH is a weekly comedy podcast celebrating all things spooky, hosted by Max Booth III.DOG EARS is a podcast about publishing, writing, and dogs.The ARC Party - Robb Olson (with Ryan McRae interviewing)Your first look at upcoming books!My goal with the ARC Party is to connect readers with books before they release! Much of the success of a new book is connected to pre-orders and early sales numbers, but sometimes people don't hear about a book until long after it's been released.An episode typically consists of an author giving a quick description of their book, followed by a spoiler free discussion about it. We often talk about themes, characters, settings, etc.But I'm careful to not talk about anything that would ruin the reading experience!SubscribedHungry for more?I asked the internet for recommendations of podcasts that they like that talk about horror books, and here is a giant list of their responses. (descriptions borrowed and sometimes shortened from their websites)NOTE: I tried to focus on currently active podcasts and exclude any that seemed defunct, and I can't be 100% sure that all of these are still publishing episodes.* Behind Your Face There Is A Place: Host Johnny Compton has conversations with creative guests, broadly, but not strictly about one of three possible subjects: I LOVED THIS!, Author's Commentary, Studying the Scares.* Bleeding Page: A bi-weekly podcast wherein authors Chad Lutzke & Jason Brant discuss self-publishing dark fiction and the craft of writing with special guests.* Fearmongers: Bestselling author Clay McLeod Chapman hosts FEARMONGERS, featuring interviews with and readings by horror fiction's biggest stars.Produced in cooperation with Verso Studios at the Westport Library.* Geek's Guide to the Galaxy is a podcast hosted by science fiction author David Barr Kirtley. The show features conversations about fantasy & science fiction in books, movies, games, and comics, as well as related subjects such as science, history, and critical thinking.* Killer Mediums: Horror Podcast hosted by author William Sterling, examining how horror tropes manifest across different mediums of entertainment. Let'ss Get Spooky!* Lifewriting: Authors and screenwriters Steven Barnes and Tananarive Due (and guests!) on writing, the writer's life, Hollywood, the work/family balance and relationships - the tools writers need to make themselves the heroes/heroines of their own story.* Lovecraft E-Zine: A friendly horror podcast. Panelists are Bridgette Brenmark, Matthew Carpenter, Pete Rawlik, John Langan, Benjamin Handelman, Melissa Walsh, Michael DaBronzo, Stephen Mark Rainey, Alan Hughes, and Mike Davis.* Postcards From A Dying World: Postcards from a Dying has been my blog for the last decade with more than 1,000 book reviews to promotional bonuses for my fiction. This podcast feed collections all the audio bonus materials for the blog, interviews and will include a monthly digest of my book reviews.* She Wore Black: A gothic, mystery, and horror podcast.* Sley House Presents: Sley House Presents is a podcast offered by Sley House Publishing. Our episodes are dedicated to discussing the best in genre literature, interviewing notable professionals in the field, reviewing movies, producing radio dramas based on your favorite classic and new short stories, and deep dives into your favorite horror topics.And here are the ones that are, ostensibly, entirely focused on Stephen King and his writing:* Chat Sematary: Chat Sematary will dive into the works and adaptations of the King of Horror, Stephen King. Hosted by Deanna Chapman.* Dark Tower Palaver: Join hosts Tadd and Peter for in-depth discussion and analysis of Stephen King's Magnum Opus The Dark Tower series. Explore the Novels, comics, upcoming film/TV adaptations, and all things Dark Tower. Join in on both the Round Table Discussions covering the entire series, as well as the Book Club where each book is systematically read, analyzed and discussed in order from the first line to the last. Come let's Palaver Gunslinger!* Derry Public Radio: Welcome to the basement of the Derry Civic Center. Pay no mind to the strange sounds coming from behind the Unfound Door. It's just your ka-tet, who are here to provide you with a variety of perspectives on Stephen King's work - ranging from the comfortably familiar to the frighteningly fanatic. Derry Public Radio is here to keep you up-to-date with all that's happening in Derry, Maine and "beyond."* Just King Things: is a monthly podcast about reading the books of Stephen King in publication order. Join hosts Michael and Cameron, two cultural critics and horror fans who literally grew up reading this stuff, as they embark upon a quest to revisit and review a vast body of work spanning five decades, reading one book a month for… only ten years or so* Kingcast: is a Stephen King podcast for Stephen King obsessives hosted by former film bloggers and rabid horror fans Eric Vespe and Scott Wampler. Each week, the pair welcome a notable guest to the show to discuss the King adaptation (or unadapted novel/short story) of their choice. It's an unpredictable show, one that can turn on a dime between being legitimately emotional and outright hilarious, and always approaches the work of its legendary namesake with the love, respect, and top-shelf nerdery that it deserves.* Loser's Club: Founded in 2017, The Losers' Club® is an award-winning weekly series that chronologically digs through the work of Stephen King with humor, irreverence, and a critical eye. Each episode, the Losers gather together to read between the iconic pages and share the latest in King's Dominion, whether it's the author's oft-controversial tweets, the boldest Hollywood headlines, or his endless forthcoming projects. The series also regularly features special guests. In the past, the Losers have spoken to Mike Flanagan, Thomas Jane, Tananarive Due, Chapo Trap House, Owen Teague, Mick Garris, Mary Lambert, Jerry O'Connell, Wil Wheaton, Joe Bob Briggs, and even King himself. Suitable for readers both Constant and casual. King says check us out.* The Constant Reader Podcast: Everything Stephen King, from Carrie to The Institute, from the novels to the short stories, from the small screen to the big screen. Each month we take a deep dive into one book from the bibliography of the King of horror fiction, while also charting the byways of King's forays into other genres (The Dark Tower series, On Writing etc) and also casting an eye on the many TV and film adaptations of King's work.Recorded live from the UEA media suite, Richard Sheppard interviews writers, academics, superfans and anyone with a passion for the work of Stephen King.* The Year of Underrated Stephen King: This is a one-woman, (lecture style) Stephen King podcast that analyzes Stephen King's lesser-known novels and short stories in depth and explores why Stephen King is the greatest fiction writer alive!Applying what I teach my Fiction students, in this podcast we will examine: Strong Writing, Storytelling Principles, Genre, Literary Analysis, Stephen King Universe Nerdery and the Constant Reader Community at Large!* Tower Junkies: A podcast celebrating the work of Stephen King with an occasional focus on his magnum opus, The Dark Tower series.SubscribedFor those of you who prefer YouTube: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thearcparty.com/subscribe

Holy moly, this is a good movie! It's an especially good movie to study for anyone writing a quiet, character-driven story. THE WIFE originally aired as Episode 4 of Season 6 when Melanie was studying stakes and I was studying empathy. But honestly, this is one of those rare films that novelists (and memoirists!) can study to learn just about any storytelling principle. -V.*Programming Note: In next week's episode we review the movie NYAD, not GONE BABY GONE as indicated in the intro. For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

So many podcasts!I thought I could make one podcast episode where I talked to some folks who podcast about horror, and it would be a one-stop-shop for folks looking for a new favorite commute time killer (hmm. commute-time killer? commute time-killer?)Well, as is often the case, it wasn't until I was in the middle of it that I realized two things: * There are so many podcasts talking about horror books.* Podcasters love to talk - so my 15-20 minute target often ended up going way longer than that. * (I know I said two, but heck this deserves a bullet) There's a ton of podcasts where the only topic is Stephen King and his books. Episode OneThis is now part one of what I'm guessing/hoping will be a series about horror podcasts. For this first installment, You'll hear from Stephanie Gagnon from BOOKS IN THE FREEZER, followed by Michael David Wilson from THIS IS HORROR.The GuestsBooks In The Freezer - Stephanie GagnonThis is Books in the Freezer, a podcast dedicated to the deliciously disturbing world of horror fiction. Our topical, bi-weekly episodes will cover those scary books that you might want to put in the freezer. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss any of our recommendations!This Is Horror - Michael David WilsonThe This Is Horror Podcast is a weekly show for readers, writers, and creators hosted by Michael David Wilson and Bob Pastorella. We interview writers, artists, publishers, editors, and creatives every week. We have interviewed over 100 creatives including Chuck Palahniuk, Joe Hill, Joe R. Lansdale, Charlaine Harris, Ellen Datlow, David Moody, Jennifer Lynch, Gemma Files, and Josh Malerman.Episode TwoNeil McRobert kicks off the second episode, talking about his well respected podcast TALKING SCARED. Max Booth III follows, always fun to talk to Max, and we get into the various podcast projects they have going on. Finally, I included myself in this series - not out of vanity, but rather, in case a listener came to these episodes from an outside audience, I thought they might be curious about what I get up to at the ARC PARTY, so I brought in backup to interview me about this humble effort. The GuestsTalking Scared - Neil McRobertConversations with the biggest names in horror fiction. A podcast for horror readers who want to know where their favorite stories came from ... and what frightens the people who wrote them.Ghoulish & Dog Ears - Max Booth IIIGHOULISH is a weekly comedy podcast celebrating all things spooky, hosted by Max Booth III.DOG EARS is a podcast about publishing, writing, and dogs.The ARC Party - Robb Olson (with Ryan McRae interviewing)Your first look at upcoming books!My goal with the ARC Party is to connect readers with books before they release! Much of the success of a new book is connected to pre-orders and early sales numbers, but sometimes people don't hear about a book until long after it's been released.An episode typically consists of an author giving a quick description of their book, followed by a spoiler free discussion about it. We often talk about themes, characters, settings, etc.But I'm careful to not talk about anything that would ruin the reading experience!Hungry for more?I asked the internet for recommendations of podcasts that they like that talk about horror books, and here is a giant list of their responses. (descriptions borrowed and sometimes shortened from their websites)NOTE: I tried to focus on currently active podcasts and exclude any that seemed defunct, and I can't be 100% sure that all of these are still publishing episodes. * Behind Your Face There Is A Place: Host Johnny Compton has conversations with creative guests, broadly, but not strictly about one of three possible subjects: I LOVED THIS!, Author's Commentary, Studying the Scares.* Bleeding Page: A bi-weekly podcast wherein authors Chad Lutzke & Jason Brant discuss self-publishing dark fiction and the craft of writing with special guests.* Fearmongers: Bestselling author Clay McLeod Chapman hosts FEARMONGERS, featuring interviews with and readings by horror fiction's biggest stars.Produced in cooperation with Verso Studios at the Westport Library.* Geek's Guide to the Galaxy is a podcast hosted by science fiction author David Barr Kirtley. The show features conversations about fantasy & science fiction in books, movies, games, and comics, as well as related subjects such as science, history, and critical thinking.* Killer Mediums: Horror Podcast hosted by author William Sterling, examining how horror tropes manifest across different mediums of entertainment. Let'ss Get Spooky!* Lifewriting: Authors and screenwriters Steven Barnes and Tananarive Due (and guests!) on writing, the writer's life, Hollywood, the work/family balance and relationships - the tools writers need to make themselves the heroes/heroines of their own story.* Lovecraft E-Zine: A friendly horror podcast. Panelists are Bridgette Brenmark, Matthew Carpenter, Pete Rawlik, John Langan, Benjamin Handelman, Melissa Walsh, Michael DaBronzo, Stephen Mark Rainey, Alan Hughes, and Mike Davis. * Postcards From A Dying World: Postcards from a Dying has been my blog for the last decade with more than 1,000 book reviews to promotional bonuses for my fiction. This podcast feed collections all the audio bonus materials for the blog, interviews and will include a monthly digest of my book reviews.* She Wore Black: A gothic, mystery, and horror podcast.* Sley House Presents: Sley House Presents is a podcast offered by Sley House Publishing. Our episodes are dedicated to discussing the best in genre literature, interviewing notable professionals in the field, reviewing movies, producing radio dramas based on your favorite classic and new short stories, and deep dives into your favorite horror topics.And here are the ones that are, ostensibly, entirely focused on Stephen King and his writing:* Chat Sematary: Chat Sematary will dive into the works and adaptations of the King of Horror, Stephen King. Hosted by Deanna Chapman.* Dark Tower Palaver: Join hosts Tadd and Peter for in-depth discussion and analysis of Stephen King's Magnum Opus The Dark Tower series. Explore the Novels, comics, upcoming film/TV adaptations, and all things Dark Tower. Join in on both the Round Table Discussions covering the entire series, as well as the Book Club where each book is systematically read, analyzed and discussed in order from the first line to the last. Come let's Palaver Gunslinger!* Derry Public Radio: Welcome to the basement of the Derry Civic Center. Pay no mind to the strange sounds coming from behind the Unfound Door. It's just your ka-tet, who are here to provide you with a variety of perspectives on Stephen King's work - ranging from the comfortably familiar to the frighteningly fanatic. Derry Public Radio is here to keep you up-to-date with all that's happening in Derry, Maine and "beyond."* Just King Things: is a monthly podcast about reading the books of Stephen King in publication order. Join hosts Michael and Cameron, two cultural critics and horror fans who literally grew up reading this stuff, as they embark upon a quest to revisit and review a vast body of work spanning five decades, reading one book a month for… only ten years or so* Kingcast: is a Stephen King podcast for Stephen King obsessives hosted by former film bloggers and rabid horror fans Eric Vespe and Scott Wampler. Each week, the pair welcome a notable guest to the show to discuss the King adaptation (or unadapted novel/short story) of their choice. It's an unpredictable show, one that can turn on a dime between being legitimately emotional and outright hilarious, and always approaches the work of its legendary namesake with the love, respect, and top-shelf nerdery that it deserves.* Loser's Club: Founded in 2017, The Losers' Club® is an award-winning weekly series that chronologically digs through the work of Stephen King with humor, irreverence, and a critical eye. Each episode, the Losers gather together to read between the iconic pages and share the latest in King's Dominion, whether it's the author's oft-controversial tweets, the boldest Hollywood headlines, or his endless forthcoming projects. The series also regularly features special guests. In the past, the Losers have spoken to Mike Flanagan, Thomas Jane, Tananarive Due, Chapo Trap House, Owen Teague, Mick Garris, Mary Lambert, Jerry O'Connell, Wil Wheaton, Joe Bob Briggs, and even King himself. Suitable for readers both Constant and casual. King says check us out.* The Constant Reader Podcast: Everything Stephen King, from Carrie to The Institute, from the novels to the short stories, from the small screen to the big screen. Each month we take a deep dive into one book from the bibliography of the King of horror fiction, while also charting the byways of King's forays into other genres (The Dark Tower series, On Writing etc) and also casting an eye on the many TV and film adaptations of King's work.Recorded live from the UEA media suite, Richard Sheppard interviews writers, academics, superfans and anyone with a passion for the work of Stephen King.* The Year of Underrated Stephen King: This is a one-woman, (lecture style) Stephen King podcast that analyzes Stephen King's lesser-known novels and short stories in depth and explores why Stephen King is the greatest fiction writer alive!Applying what I teach my Fiction students, in this podcast we will examine: Strong Writing, Storytelling Principles, Genre, Literary Analysis, Stephen King Universe Nerdery and the Constant Reader Community at Large!* Tower Junkies: A podcast celebrating the work of Stephen King with an occasional focus on his magnum opus, The Dark Tower series.For those of you who prefer YouTube: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thearcparty.com/subscribe

Melanie and I are taking a short mid-winter/mid-summer break, so while we recharge our batteries we're reposting some of our favourite episodes starting this week with THE GODFATHER. Wow, there just aren't too many movies with this level of storytelling craft in them. I had a whole lot to say about this classic film and I know that no matter which genre you're writing in, there's something in this episode to help you. Enjoy! - V. For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

We visit the joys of multiplot stories this week. Valerie discovers (again) the issues with multiplot stories in movies, and I investigate how the different timelines impact the narrative drive. We both learnt what happens to a story when conflict triangles and curiosity and concern are absent - a cautionary tale for writers. -M“A character can't un-know something or completely ignore something that is right in front of them.” Melanie Hill. RELATED STORY NERD EPISODESNashville Season 5, Episode 5As Good as it Gets Season 6, Episode 5 (Empathy) For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

In this episode, we delve into the climactic final chapters of The Great Ordeal, the third book in R. Scott Bakker's Aspect-Emperor series. Join us as we explore the intricate character arcs, speculate on motivations, and unravel the complex web of actions that drive this epic tale forward.We'll discuss Kellhus' enigmatic connection to the No-God and ponder the roles of the Ajokli and Yatwer. We'll also delve into the haunting presence of the radioactive decaying people and analyze Proyas' leadership amidst the chaos. Our conversation raises thought-provoking questions about Kellhus' grand plan, his manipulation of others, and the broader themes of insanity and belief in gods.Our analysis extends to the concept of insanity, particularly in relation to Kellhus and the Survivor thread, which serves to deconstruct the Dunyain ideal. We'll also examine Kelmomas' paradoxical cruelty and Esmenet's pivotal realization about him.The episode takes a speculative turn as we discuss decapitation and the mystery of the head on the pole, a surprising return, and Mimara's intriguing pregnancy. We'll delve into Akka's dream sequence and its deeper implications, as well as the potential significance of Mimara's twins and the console's possession of the sarcophagus.As we wrap up, we'll share our predictions for the next book in the series, reflect on the themes of fatherhood and the emptiness of existence, and highlight our favorite quotes. Finally, we'll express our gratitude to our listeners and announce the next reading assignment.Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion on the final chapters of The Great Ordeal!Find Carl: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BY74YRN5Find Varsha: https://www.youtube.com/@ReadingByTheRainyMountainSend us a Text Message.Support the Show.PageChewing.comPAGECHEWING: Comics & Manga PodcastFilm Chewing PodcastSpeculative Speculations PodcastBuy me a coffeeLinktreeJoin Riverside.fm

Send us a Text Message.What happens when emotional repression and self-sacrifice shape your life? Join me and booktuber Olivia-Savannah from Olivia's Catastrophe as we explore Elinor Dashwood's character from Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensibility." Together, we delve into key scenes that reveal Elinor's emotional burdens and how she often adopts a more masculine energy by becoming the mediator and strength for everyone else in the book.We compare Elinor's stoicism with Marianne's emotional expressiveness, discussing how others' expectations shape their experiences. We examine Elinor's relationships with Lucy, Willoughby, and Edward, and discuss the impact of "eldest daughter syndrome" on her. Through this exploration, we appreciate Elinor's strength and growth, highlighting the enduring themes of emotional acknowledgement and personal development in Austen's work. We discover that Elinor is the true heroine of this novel, but we also consider the sacrifices she makes to claim that spot in a fictional world dictated by Sensibility. Where can you find Olivia? Youtube: @OliviasCatastropheInstagram: Olivia-Savannah @OliviasCatastropheBuzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEPURE pet food 50% off your box! Love this food for Hoggy it's easy to store and has all the nutrients he needs! PlumInvest and save easily with plum! Rover Pet CareRover connects pet owners with a nationwide network of pet lovers who can't wait to watch their pet.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

This week one of mystery writing's deadly sins makes a guest appearance. Valerie and I discuss if the appearance is welcome or not. A Simple Favour has good examples of how Narrative Drive works - great for my topic. However, it wasn't so good for Valerie's study of Conflict Triangles, so we see how superficial a story can be when the conflict isn't complex. -M."After studying this movie, I understand that multiple narrative drive devices can be used simultaneously." Melanie HillRelated Story Nerd EpisodesKnives Out (Season 1, Episode 107)The Gentlemen (Season 8, Episode 806)The Good Liar (Season 9, Episode 906) For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

In BELFAST, Kenneth Branagh does something that most, if not all, new writers do. In a movie, it's kind of hard to spot because filmmakers have access to tools (like costume design, cinematography, and a musical score) that obscure it. In a novel, it's obvious —stark even — because all we have is black text on a white page. It's laid bare for all readers to see, and readers don't like it. Here it is ... in BELFAST the protagonist is passive. He's observing the action but not part of the action (and he's not a narrator either). So what can we do about it? Tune in to this week's episode to find out. - V."I felt like I should have liked it. I felt like that there was like, if I didn't like it, then there was something wrong with me." - Melanie Hill For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

In this episode, we dive deep into chapters four through seven of The Great Ordeal by R. Scott Bakker. Join us as we unravel the complex conversations between Kellhus and a mysterious voice, speculate on the significance of the head on the pole, and ponder its connection to the enigmatic No-God.We explore Proyas' haunting visions and his intricate relationship with Saubon, delve into the symbolic tree imagery and the soldiers' unsettling obsession with meat, and confront the brutal inhumanity of the Sranc and their genetically modified diet.We also contemplate the themes of love and the role of prophets in this rich narrative. The disturbing revelations about Ishual and the Whale Mothers, as well as the mysterious Head on a Pole, leave us with more questions than answers.Tune in as we share theories about the labyrinthine Consult, the White Luck Warrior, and the motivations behind characters. We also touch on the profound concepts of possession, genetic memory, and the relationships between Non-Men and humans, all while dissecting the use of italics in the text and grappling with some challenging scenes.Join us for a thought-provoking discussion filled with intriguing quotes and our eager anticipation for the next chapters in this captivating series. Don't miss this episode if you're a fan of deep dives into complex literary worlds!Find Carl: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BY74YRN5Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.PageChewing.comPAGECHEWING: Comics & Manga PodcastFilm Chewing PodcastSpeculative Speculations PodcastBuy me a coffeeLinktreeLogo by The GlimmerTwin Art HouseJoin Riverside.fm

Sometimes we learn more from our mistakes than our successes - that's my story and I'm sticking to it this week! Narrative drive is an important storytelling principle to learn and this week's movie is an example of poor story structure resulting in terrible narrative drive. A mystery writer should have control of the information. Valerie's study of conflict triangles was more fruitful than my area of study this week. The conflict triangle is present and clear to see. -M"Narrative drive is all about information and the emotions it creates in the readers. It's also about understanding your role as the writer to control that information." - Melanie HillRelated Story Nerd EpisodesLate Night (Season 1, Episode 101)Doubt (Season 11, Episode 1101) For access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Aragorn's choice to follow the Uruk-hai in order to rescue Merry and Pippin is made very differently in the original book as compared to Peter Jackson's movie trilogy, but the same scene also foreshadows in some ways Sam's own difficult choices much later in the story. For my recent discussion of Aragorn's lack of self-confidence, see this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1Rhi8bV6zQ&pp=ygUiZGFyayBuaWdodCBvZiBhcmFnb3JuJ3MgY29uZmlkZW5jZQ%3D%3D For more discussion on Aragron's character arc (or lack thereof), click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPpBd0WSOV4 Other Links: Playeur (formerly Utreon): https://playeur.com/c/TolkienLorePodcast/ Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-355195 Odysee: https://odysee.com/@TolkienLore:f Twitter: https://twitter.com/jrrtlore Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tolkiengeek Xero Shoes (affiliate link): https://xeroshoes.com/go/TolkienGeek Discord server invite link: https://discord.gg/EVKynAj2m9 (If link is expired contact me at tolkienloremaster@gmail.com and I'll send a fresh invite link). --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/joshua6469/support

Quite often, stories that don't work have more to teach us than the stories that do. Maybe Maria Semple's novel (upon which this film is based), is simply one that's challenging to adapt to the screen. Whatever the case, this move has missed the mark on some basic storytelling principles (it has too many backstory info dumps, a Deus Ex Machina, and weak narrative drive). If you want to understand the impact these things have on a story, and on the reader/viewer, this episode is for you! - V."If exposition is not used properly, it will ruin your story." Valerie Francis REGISTER FOR THE 2024 SPRING WEBINAR SERIESFor access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Crazy Rich Asians pitches two female leads against each other - sounds excellent right? Not so fast… This should set up an epic battle of wills as one fights against traditions she doesn't understand while the other fights to retain order and tradition. This week, I find out what happens when the protagonist doesn't plausibly match, then surpass, the antagonist.  Valerie discusses how superficial innovation doesn't hide questionable male characters or Asian stereotypes. "When I watched Rachel and Eleanor this week, I found Eleanor more fascinating and as a result, Rachel's victory using game theory was hard to believe." - Melanie HillRELATED STORY NERD EPISODESAugust Osage County (Season 8, Episode 1)Everything, Everywhere, All at Once (Season 7, Episode 6) REGISTER FOR THE 2024 SPRING WEBINAR SERIESFor access to writing templates and worksheets, and more than 70 hours of training (all for free), subscribe to Valerie's Inner Circle.To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website.Follow Valerie on X, Instagram and Threads @valerie_francisFollow Melanie on X, Instagram and Facebook @MelanieHillAuthor

Send us a Text Message.Imagine growing up in a home where every corner whispers stories of Jane Austen. In this episode, I will be chatting with Caroline Jane Knight, Jane Austen's 5th great-niece and founder of the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation.Caroline shares her experience growing up in, and eventually leaving, Chawton House, the Knight family home. Through childhood anecdotes, she paints a vivid picture of living amid literary heritage, balancing tradition with the realities of daily life. Caroline's story transcends the past. Once a corporate powerhouse, she now champions the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation, inspired by her Austen connection. The Jane Austen Literacy Foundation stands as a testament to her and the incredible volunteers' dedication. Caroline discusses the Foundation's initiatives, from global writing competitions to literacy events, fostering a passionate volunteer network to support literacy projects in developing communities.As Caroline reflects on Austen's writing and her own experiences, we gain insights that are both deeply personal and universally resonant, finding a way back to your roots.  Join us for an episode that honours Jane Austen's enduring spirit through none other than her own great-niece. Host a Jane Austen Tea for Literacy Sanditon Celebration Event: BOOK HEREWhere can you find the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation? Website Instagram: @janeaustenliteracyfoundationFacebook YoutubeMy article for the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation: ISSUE 97: A WISE WOMAN FIT FOR REGENCY ENGLANDSupport the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

This season, Jac and Amy conduct a literary analysis of Sarah J. Maas' book Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood! This is Part 2 of Episode 16.Jac and Amy discuss listener submitted thoughts that include content from the Crescent City series by Sarah J. Maas (Books 1-3) as well as the  A Court of Thorns and Roses and Throne of Glass series.TRIGGER WARNING: Contains graphic discussion of sexual acts as well as discussion of parental and partner abuse. Support the Show.

This season, Jac and Amy conduct a literary analysis of Sarah J. Maas' book Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood! This is Part 1 of Episode 16.Jac and Amy discuss listener submitted thoughts that include content from the Crescent City series by Sarah J. Maas (Books 1-3) as well as the entire A Court of Thorns and Roses series. TRIGGER WARNING: Contains graphic discussion of sexual acts as well as discussion of parental and partner abuse. Support the Show.