Mythmakers

The Rainshadow Orphans: Naomi Ishiguro and Anime Inspired Fantasy

Thu, 28 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

We were delighted to welcome Naomi Ishiguro to the podcast to discuss the first book in her new trilogy, The Rainshadow Orphans. Her world is inspired by Japanese culture, involving three brave young people, undocumented workers in a found family, the young son of the emperor, and the outsider who has become mixed up with a terrifying gang.

Although written as an adult novel, Naomi explains how the students she once taught at high school were also very much in her mind while writing. The conversation ranges from how to create characters, plot and stylistic choices, via anime and snacks. We end with a flight on dragonback.

To order your own copy of The Rainshadow Orphans, visit:

For UK readers: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-rainshadow-orphans/naomi-ishiguro/9781398562400
For US readers: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-rainshadow-orphans-naomi-ishiguro/1148779915

(00:00) Introducing Naomi Ishiguro and The Rain Shadow Orphans
(01:14) Childhood Stories, Disney Animation, and a Love of Fantasy
(05:17) What Readers Can Expect from The Rain Shadow Orphans
(07:47) Space, Belonging, and the Politics of the Island
(11:16) Writing After the Pandemic and Finding a New Creative Direction
(13:47) Building an Anime-Inspired Fantasy World
(18:45) Eastern Dragons, Weather Magic, and Representation
(21:40) The Main Characters and the Heart of Found Family
(30:28) Discovering Plot, Structure, Drama, and Shakespearean Influence
(45:00) Snacks, Comfort, Dragon Travel, and Final Reflections

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Something Hot Out of the Pot - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 4 Ch 4

Thu, 21 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(00:35) Introducing “Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit”
(02:40) Turning Away from the Black Gate
(06:50) Entering Ithilien and the Return of Hope
(10:40) Ruins, Lost Landscapes, and Tolkien’s Sense of History
(12:20) Ithilien as Tolkien’s Poetic Garden
(17:20) Sam’s Hunger and the Comic Relief of Cooking
(19:00) Sam’s Love for Frodo
(20:10) Rabbits, Hobbit Culture, and Sam’s Travelling Kitchen
(22:00) Gollum, Potatoes, and the Clash of Tastes
(26:00) The Cooking Fire and the Arrival of Faramir’s Men
(31:00) Faramir, Boromir, and the Hidden Rangers of Gondor
(36:30) The Skirmish in Ithilien and Sam’s First Sight of an Oliphaunt
(42:30) Wonder, Danger, and the Chapter’s Lasting Charm

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Best Fantasy Books of the 1990s

Thu, 14 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

What an extraordinary decade for fantasy! In the first instalment of a decade by decade look at fantasy publishing, in this episode Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker begin with a period that gave us countless instant classics. Each shares their top three picks—will you agree with their choices? Tune in to find out!

(00:04) Revisiting the Fantasy Reads of the 1990s
(02:31) Major Fantasy Titles of the Decade
(05:28) Adding Game of Thrones and Good Omens to the List
(07:51) Defining “Best” as Books Worth Returning To
(09:19) Jacob’s Number Three: Star Wars and Heir to the Empire
(12:03) Julia’s Number Three: J.D. Robb’s In Death Series
(15:07) Jacob’s Number Two: Northern Lights / The Golden Compass
(19:34) Julia’s Number Two: Garth Nix’s Sabriel
(23:36) Why Harry Potter Tops Both Lists
(28:54) Final Rankings and an Invitation to Listeners

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Galahad and the Grail: Malcolm Guite Is on a Quest

Thu, 07 May 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today’s guest on Mythmakers is the wonderful Malcolm Guite—poet, priest, literary critic, and so much more. He had been lured on a quest to tell his Arthurian epic in ballad form and has published the first volume, Galahad and the Grail, which takes us straight to the heart of the matter of Arthur.

Listen as he joins Julia Golding to discuss how and why he set out on this journey, his plans moving forward, and the authors who have accompanied and inspired him along the way as he seeks to revive this timeless cycle of stories for our current age. Stay tuned to hear where you might best embark on your own Grail quest in other fantasy worlds—and where it might not go quite to plan.

Follow along with more of Malcolm’s riveting adventures over at his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/@malcolmguitespell?si=o-Tw3IOrr2CKWIWp and learn more about his works at https://malcolmguite.wordpress.com/

(00:00) Introduction to Malcolm Guite and Galahad and the Grail
(01:23) How Arthur Called Malcolm to “Take Up the Tale”
(04:36) The Ballad Tradition and the Influence of Chesterton
(05:34) Why Malcolm Chose Poetry for an Arthurian Epic
(10:48) Literary Echoes, Influence, and Creative Collaboration
(15:57) Dandrene, Lucy, and the Spiritual Imagination of C.S. Lewis
(20:56) Galahad, Jeopardy, and the Challenge of the Perfect Knight
(26:27) The Grail, Communion, and Charles Williams’ Influence
(31:28) Why the Ballad Form Works for Enchantment
(35:23) Dandrene, Women’s Wisdom, and Creation as God’s Word
(38:40) Why the Epic Begins with the Grail Quest
(41:20) What Comes Next in Malcolm’s Arthurian Cycle
(43:33) Where Else Could a Grail Quest Belong?
(48:16) Where to Find Galahad and the Grail
(49:23) Looking Ahead to The Coming of Arthur and Future Volumes

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Nursery Toys, Their Fantastical Journeys and Which Is the Best Cinematic Universe

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

With the King and Queen of the United Kingdom heading to the US this week, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker begin today’s episode of Mythmakers with a playful look at soft toy diplomacy and the source of many fantasy stories in nursery toys—including a bonus Tolkien connection.

From there, the conversation turns to the thorny question of which cinematic universe is the best? Expect strong opinions as Julia and Jacob weigh the merits of Marvel, DC, Star Trek, Star Wars, and amongst others…

(00:00) Introduction & Episode Overview
(01:12) Soft Toy Diplomacy & Winnie-the-Pooh Legacy
(03:00) Toys in Fantasy: Childhood Stories & Lasting Themes
(05:20) Imagination, Play, and Growing Up in Toy Narratives
(07:40) Worldbuilding in Winnie-the-Pooh vs Other Stories
(10:00) Toy Stories as Cultural Reflection & Social Commentary
(14:40) Play as the Foundation of Fantasy Storytelling
(18:40) Defining the Cinematic Universe
(23:30) Marvel & DC: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Evolution
(30:00) Star Wars: Expansion, Innovation, and Challenges
(36:30) Star Trek vs Star Wars: Themes and Cultural Impact
(44:30) Personal Preferences, Nostalgia, and Final Verdicts
(57:00) Closing & Transition to 1990s Fantasy Discussion

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Casting, Colbert and Contracts: Big News of Lotr Films and the Best Way to Get a Book Contract

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In today’s episode of Mythmakers, we cover three lively topics of discussion. Join Julia Golding and friend of the podcast, Jacob Rennaker, as they begin with the latest casting news for the upcoming prequel film The Hunt for Gollum—hits or misses?

Next, they turn to the content challenges surrounding Stephen Colbert’s script for the second Lord of the Rings film currently in development—which we’re calling “the interval.” Rather than focusing on canon, Julia and Jacob explore the storytelling possibilities from a creative perspective.

Finally, with Julia having just secured a new contract for a middle-grade fantasy novel, they discuss the best approaches for breaking through in today’s publishing market. What does it really take to get noticed by publishers these days?

(00:00) Introduction & Episode Overview
(02:00) Casting News for The Hunt for Gollum
(08:00) New Characters & Story Speculation (Halvard & Companions)
(10:00) Kate Winslet’s Role & Expanding Middle-earth’s Female Presence
(16:00) Andy Serkis Directing & Acting Challenges
(19:00) Stephen Colbert’s LOTR Film & “The Interval” Concept
(26:00) Character Depth: Frodo, Merry & Adaptation Challenges
(30:00) Tom Bombadil & Goldberry – Adapting the Unadaptable
(38:00) Balancing Tone, Audience & Modern Expectations
(41:00) Writing Fantasy Today: Breaking Into Publishing
(52:00) Editing Process, Trends & Modern Children’s Publishing
(56:00) Final Thoughts & What’s Next

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Call: Peadar Ó Guilín, Irish Fantasy and the Nature of Fairy Stories

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Ireland is one of the world’s greatest fantasy hot spots. Join Irish fantasy writer Peadar Ó Guilín and Julia Golding as they embark on an exploration of Ireland’s rich storytelling tradition and its influence on Peadar’s work.

Discover how ancient tales of invasion gave rise to the Sidhe, and why the folk of the Mounds have it in for us. The Call features a brutal competition where they get their revenge—what might that tell us about the world Peadar grew up in and the themes emerging from his work? The conversation turns to The Sword Garden, his new book, which takes inspiration from Irish legend to begin a new tale of sci-fi fantasy world collisions. Be sure to stay to the end to hear Peadar and Julia pick the best place to take part in a magical contest—though most may be best avoided for health and safety reasons…

To dive deeper into Peadar’s various works, visit https://www.peadar.org/

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Overview
(01:40) Language Evolution and Writing Systems
(04:00) Ireland’s Influence on Fantasy Storytelling
(06:00) Reimagining Fairies: The Aas Sídhe Explained
(07:40) Irish Mythology and the Book of Invasions
(11:40) Themes of History, Class, and Conflict in Fantasy
(15:50) Irish Folklore Traditions and Story Cycles
(18:20) Local Legends and Landscape-Based Storytelling
(21:00) Stereotypes of Irish Writers and Global Perception
(23:00) Preserving Folklore: Monks, Records, and Oral History
(29:20) Tolkien, Fairy Stories, and Audience Perception
(34:40) Favourite Fantasy Worlds and Final Reflections

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Notorious Virtues: Alwyn Hamilton and a 1920s Heiress Fantasy

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today on Mythmakers, we welcome author Alwyn Hamilton, who has crafted a gripping fantasy that mingles Grimm fairy tale tropes with a sleek, 1920s-inspired world on the brink of disaster. In this episode, Alwyn joins Julia Golding to discuss her path to publication and how she connects her series to build a richly expanding universe.

Together, they explore the challenges of writing with multiple points of view and reflect on what the 1920s can reveal about our own moment in time. Discover Alwyn’s recommendations for recent fantasy titles as the conversation turns to magic systems, before finally ending on a lighter note—join the debate as to which fantasy world would host the most stylish party. Tune in to see if you agree with their pick!

Discover more of Alwyn's works, and follow her social accounts, at https://www.alwynhamilton.com/

(00:04) Introduction to Alwyn Hamilton and Her Work
(03:08) Harry Potter and Shared Reading Experiences
(04:34) Removing Parents in Children’s Stories
(05:08) Introducing The Notorious Virtues
(08:00) Reversing Tropes and Exploring Adoption Narratives
(11:00) Challenging Characters Through Unfamiliar Virtues
(12:20) The 1920s Setting and Historical Influences
(14:20) Wealth, Power, and Generational Control
(18:00) Balancing Character Perspectives and Storylines
(21:00) The Bodyguards and the Cost of Loyalty
(24:30) Wealth Inequality and Social Commentary in Fantasy
(28:00) Creation Myths and Magic as Currency
(29:30) Influential Fantasy Magic Systems and Final Thoughts

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mammoth Rider: SJ Poyton's Long Road to Publishing

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Here’s a story that will encourage many of our listeners: SJ Poyton’s epic journey to publication has spanned nearly 20 years, and her perseverance has paid off with the release of her sci-fi children’s novel, Mammoth Rider. Think Jurassic Park, but much more plausible.

In this episode, SJ and Julia Golding sit down to discuss the environmental themes behind the book, as well as the importance of including neurodiverse characters in a way that portrays their unique minds as simply being part of who they are, and even as a part of their gifts. SJ and Julia go on to decide how one should name a mammoth, before speculating about which mythical creature they would wish to introduce into the real world.

To learn more about SJ, and to order your own copy of Mammoth Rider, visit https://www.sjpoyton.com/

(00:04) Introduction to SJ Poyton and Mammoth Rider
(00:47) A 19-Year Journey to Publication
(04:35) What Mammoth Rider Is About
(06:56) How Mammoths Could Help Fight Climate Change
(09:05) Greenland, Nyala, and the White Mammoth
(12:15) Neurodiversity in the Book and in SJ’s Life
(17:10) Dyslexia Representation in Fantasy
(21:01) Writing the Sequel to Mammoth Rider
(26:08) Science Notes, Ethics, and Questions for Readers
(26:56) Which Fantasy Creature Would You Bring Back?

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Celebrating King Arthur on Tolkien Reading Day

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Saddle up and join the Round Table as Mythmakers embarks on a journey through some of the most famous retellings of King Arthur in celebration of Tolkien Reading Day. Which author started the ball rolling, and who poetically kicked it on into the 19th century? Where do the traces of these tales become most apparent in the works of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis? And who has continued the Arthurian tradition into modern times?

Finally, we turn to the screen—what is the most successful adaptation of them all? Tune in to see if you agree with our pick!

(00:00) Tolkien Reading Day and the Power of Arthur
(03:09) Malory and the Rise of Arthur in Print
(05:26) Arthur Pulls the Sword from the Stone
(09:24) Keats and the Melancholy of Arthur
(12:08) Tennyson, Avalon, and Echoes in Tolkien
(15:15) William Morris and Arthur’s Expanding World
(16:52) T.S. Eliot, Charles Williams, and the Modern Grail
(22:22) Film, Comedy, and Reinventing Arthur
(23:00) Tolkien and Lewis Through an Arthurian Lens
(27:02) Modern Retellings and Julia Golding’s Own Arthur Stories
(29:12) Why BBC’s Merlin Works So Well
(30:43) Reading Arthur to Better Understand Tolkien

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

I Know No Other Way - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 4 Ch 3

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(00:00) A Chapter Built Around a Single Decision
(02:00) Why the Black Gate Must Be Impossible to Enter
(05:00) Mordor as a Living Landscape of Evil
(08:00) Frodo’s Resolve and the Stakes of the Quest
(11:00) Writing Into Uncertainty and Finding the Way Forward
(13:30) Trust, Suspicion, and Gollum’s Divided Nature
(17:00) The Hidden Path and Foreshadowing What Lies Ahead
(21:00) Tension, Stillness, and Delaying the Decision
(26:00) Sam’s Perspective and the Power of Small Hope
(29:00) Choosing to Trust Gollum and Moving Forward

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Dead Faces in the Water! - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 4 Ch 2

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(00:00) Introducing the Passage of the Marshes
(02:20) The Structure of the Chapter and Its Locations
(04:30) Gollum as Guide and Contradictory Character
(08:40) Food, Lembas, and Gollum’s Drama
(14:00) Frodo and Sam’s Changing Relationship
(17:00) Entering the Dead Marshes
(22:30) The Atmosphere and Worldbuilding of the Marshes
(27:30) The Dead Faces Beneath the Water
(31:10) The Ringwraith’s Overflight and Growing Fear
(37:10) Gollum’s Inner Debate and the Road to Mordor

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

LOTR: An Author's Journey - Wrap Up of The Two Towers, Book 3

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(00:04) Welcome to Mythmakers and the Two Towers wrap-up begins
(01:00) Aragorn’s “odd negligence” and a sense of fate driving events
(02:49) Boromir’s deathbed scene and the shift into a heroic register
(03:53) Aragorn’s stage-like lament and Legolas’ clear-headed plan
(05:05) Entering Rohan: potted history, songs over books, and Anglo-Saxon echoes
(07:22) The Riders arrive: horses, “manes,” and cinematic choreography
(08:47) Back to the hobbits: Pippin moves from “luggage” to leadership
(10:16) Orc factions, wartime alliances, and the craft problem of “common speech”
(13:00) Gandalf returns: riddles, limits on power, and “the turn of the tide”

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

He's Much More Dangerous than He Looks - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 4 Ch 1

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(00:00) Beginning Book Four and Returning to Frodo and Sam
(04:30) A Landscape of Confusion and Pathetic Fallacy
(11:40) The Cliff Descent and the Elven Rope
(16:30) Storm, Nazgûl, and Threads Connecting the Wider Story
(22:45) The Arrival of Gollum
(29:50) Pity Versus Precious and the Moral Turning Point
(36:30) Frodo’s Authority and Gollum’s Oath
(38:20) A Frustrating Chapter That Changes Everything

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

A Most Unquenchable Hobbit! - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 11

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(01:37) Tolkien the tinkerer: Palantír added mid-writing
(04:22) Leaving Isengard
(06:20) Merry & Gandalf: humour, recovery, and raising the stakes again
(12:15) Warning notes and the danger winding up
(18:24) The Palantír confrontation
(22:05) Aragorn’s shift, kingship emerging
(29:30) Saruman’s fatal step
(34:40) Ending Book Three

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Love Is in the Air: Romance and Fantasy

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0000

Today on Mythmakers, you’re invited to join us on a short visit to the world of fantasy romance. What's all the fuss about romantasy and where did it come from? What's the secret sauce (pun intended) of Fourth Wing? And why was the world so transfixed by Twilight back early 2000s?

Be sure to stay to the end to hear Julia’s recommendations of what you might like to read this Valentine's Day from the fantasy genre.

(01:00) The Rise of Romantasy and Fourth Wing
(02:00) Market Forces and Female Readership
(04:40) Twilight and the Power of Restrained Desire
(06:50) What Makes a True Fantasy Romance
(09:20) Recommended Romantic Fantasy Reads
(14:00) Writing Romance in the Finding Sky Series
(15:10) Why We Read Romance and the Hope of Finding the Right Person

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Come Back, Saruman! - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 10

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(00:00) The Ruins of Isengard and the Approach to Saruman
(04:55) Saruman’s Voice and the Power of Persuasion
(08:00) Resistance, Discernment, and the Cracks in Saruman’s Authority
(10:29) Théoden’s Judgment and Saruman’s Fall from Power
(14:03) Gandalf’s Mercy and the Failure of Pride
(18:11) The Breaking of the Staff and the Palantír Revealed
(22:04) Aftermath, Creative Discovery, and Seeds for What Comes Next

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Chamber of Secrets and the Most Famous Film You've (Probably) Never Heard Of!

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0000

In this two-part episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding is joined once more by Andrew Head to review the full-cast Audible production of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Together, their discussion broadens to consider whether this form of audiobook, when not adapted for the actors, works or if it is simply distracting.

In the second part of today’s episode, accompany Julia on a deep dive into the recent report on the top ten grossing films of all time – where fantasy titles dominate. And as for the most famous film you've (probably) never heard of? Stay tuned to uncover that cinematic mystery!

(00:05) Entering the Wizarding World Through Sound
(03:33) Full-Cast Audio and the Promise of Immersion
(06:45) Casting Familiar Voices in New Roles
(10:45) Music, Foley, and Building an Audio World
(15:14) Comparing Full-Cast Drama to Classic Narration
(19:22) When Dramatization Works — and When It Distracts
(22:25) Revisiting Harry Potter as a Listening Experience
(26:01) Fantasy, Spectacle, and the Global Box Office
(30:21) Why Fantasy Continues to Dominate Film Culture

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

One Who Cannot Cast Away a Treasure at Need Is in Fetters - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 9

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(00:05) Setting the Scene
(02:19) Maritime Imagery, Storm Metaphors, and Tolkien’s Symbolism
(05:01) Hobbits, Food, and the Translation of Time
(07:15) Growth, Ent-Draught, and Storytelling Perspective
(09:37) Casting Away Treasure
(13:51) The Ents’ Assault on Isengard
(19:44) Gandalf’s Return, Soundscapes, and Narrative Tempo
(27:06) Wormtongue, Aftermath, and Foreshadowing the Shire

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Classical Stories and Fantasy: The Birder and Other Tales

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0000

What do the classical stories of myths and legends mean to us today? In this episode of Mythmakers, Dr. Lorna Robinson—founder of the Iris Project and director of the Rumble Museum at Cheney School in Oxford—joins Julia Golding to discuss her quest to bring these timeless tales to young people.

The conversation explores Lorna’s reinterpretation of Ovid's Metamorphoses in The Birder, a magical realism novel built around the idea that, as in the myths, people don’t die—they transform into other creatures or things.

The Birder is available now at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Birder-Dr-Lorna-Robinson/dp/B0DNC7V79X, alternatively you can ask your local bookshop to order a copy for you.

(00:05) Introducing Mythmakers and Dr Lorna Robinson
(05:40) Widening Access to Myths Through Education
(09:30) Young Readers, Modern Media, and Classical Stories
(13:40) Cultural Literacy and Why Myths Still Matter
(16:10) Writing The Birder and Imagining Metamorphosis
(20:10) Ovid, Magical Realism, and Belief in Ancient Stories
(23:20) Environmental Themes and Future Writing Projects
(25:00) Reading Ovid Today and Modern Retellings

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

You Have Passed My Score by One - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 8

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0000

We are going on an adventure! Love The Lord of the Rings? Why not read along with us as we consider the books from the writer's point of view! Taking it chapter by chapter, novelist Julia Golding will reveal new details that you might not have noticed and techniques that will only go to increase your pleasure in future re-readings of our favourite novel. Julia also brings her expert knowledge of life in Oxford and English culture to explain some points that might have passed you by.

(00:00) Introduction & The Road to Isengard as a Transitional Chapter
(02:40) Gimli and Legolas: Rivalry, Relief, and Friendship
(09:24) Burial, Honor, and Moral Order After Battle
(13:23) The Haunted Forest, the Huorns, and Unseen Judgment
(21:43) The Ents Revealed and Worlds Beyond Men
(28:29) The Ruin of Isengard and the Shadow of Orthanc
(38:48) Reunion at Isengard: Merry, Pippin, and Restored Fellowship

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Christmas in Narnia or Middle-earth: the Pros and Cons

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0000

In a bit of festive fun, join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker in this episode of Mythmakers as they explore how Christmas appears in the works of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. From the icy rule of the White Witch to a surprise visit from Father Christmas in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, they dig into the lore behind Narnia’s wintry themes. Then it’s on to Tolkien’s Father Christmas Letters and a look at how Yule is celebrated in Middle-earth.

Listen in to find out where they’d each choose to spend the festive season—and let us know if you agree!

(00:00) Welcome to Mythmakers Christmas episode
(03:10) Old Yule vs Christmas in Narnia
(06:05) Gift-giving contrast: wants vs needs
(10:05) Myth, primary/secondary worlds, and “eucatastrophe” moments
(19:20) Tolkien’s Father Christmas Letters introduced
(23:22) North Pole adventures, goblins, war echoes, and deeper worldbuilding
(32:33) Middle-earth and Yule
(37:47) Sir Gawain and the Green Knight
(44:35) Choosing Narnia or Middle-earth

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Tolkien, Lewis, the Inklings and Audiobooks

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0000

We may be in a golden age for audiobooks, but for those with sight impairments they have always been essential. Blind writer and returning guest Andrew Head joins Julia Golding on once again on today's episode of Mythmakers to share his thoughts on the audiobook biographies of Tolkien, Lewis, and the Inklings. Be sure to tune in as Andrew and Julia delve into the Mrs Moore controversy so have a listen to find out what that's all about!

(00:00) Welcome to Mythmakers and audiobook focus
(03:40) Narration style and listening experience
(10:02) C.S. Lewis biography
(15:21) Public faith vs private life in biography
(20:52) The Inklings biography and group storytelling
(24:51) Reconstructing Inklings meetings and friendships

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Pullman on Audio: Our Verdict!

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Our friend from Australia, Andrew Head—a blind writer and devoted audiobook listener—joins Julia Golding once again on today's episode of Mythmakers to explore the world of Philip Pullman through audio. Together, they dive into the pros and cons of semi-dramatised audiobooks: Are they a help or a hindrance? Which are the best Pullman titles? Their conversation then takes a deeper turn as they reflect on Pullman’s atheistic worldview and how it comes through in his writing.

(00:00) Welcoming Andrew Head: Audiobooks, Accessibility & Blind Reading
(05:15) Comparing Three Audio Formats: Dramatisation vs. Straight Readings
(08:59) Audio Descriptions in Film & TV Adaptations of His Dark Materials
(11:17) Returning to the Story: Enjoyment, Themes & Faith Tensions
(14:38) Pullman’s Worldview, Critique, and Literary Craft

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Devilry of Saruman - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 7

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

75th Anniversary of the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - How Does It Read Today?

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0000

This year marks 75 years since The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe arrived in bookshops, so join us on this anniversary episode of Mythmakers as Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker discuss the origins of the book and consider how it stood out among its literary contemporaries before we reflect on its enduring legacy today. If you have an opinion on this, have a listen and join the conversation to let us know what you think!

The book referred to in the news section is WARDROBE AND RINGS by Julia Golding, Malcolm Guite and Simon Horobin, and will be out on 28th November 2025, be sure to check it out.

(00:05) Exploring Narnia Through Different Ages
(11:10) Analyzing the Origins of Narnia
(20:29) Analyzing Character Dynamics and Planetary Influence
(31:22) Adapting Narnia Across Different Mediums
(37:19) Exploring Fantasy Adaptations and Influences

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Dark Have Been My Dreams of Late - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 6

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Wingardium Leviosa! Harry Potter Audiobook With Full Cast: Our Verdict

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Mythmakers, join Julia Golding for a review of the newly released full-cast production of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone from Pottermore and Audible. Does this reimagined version enhance the magic, or distract from the original charm? Tune in to hear Julia’s take on the production quality, narration choices, and ultimately whether this edition is worth adding to your audiobook library, along with a couple of unexpected mentions of Mr. Darcy and Dr. House!

(00:05) Harry Potter Audiobook Review
(09:22) Examining the Structure and Satire
(16:38) Recommendation for Harry Potter Audiobook

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

At the Turn of the Tide - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 5

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Greta Gerwig's Narnia

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Netflix is bringing The Chronicles of Narnia back to our screens with Greta Gerwig at the helm for the first two films in the series. Interestingly, the adaptation begins with The Magician’s Nephew, opting for chronological order rather than the order in which the books were written.

In this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker dive into what we know so far about the creative direction of the films, and what Gerwig’s involvement might mean for this and future instalments, it’s a conversation every Narnia fan will want to hear! Be sure to listen in and let us know what YOU think of this bold new beginning.

(00:05) Greta Gerwig's Narnia Adaptation Discussion
(07:33) Adapting Narnia for Modern Audiences
(14:27) Casting and Setting Challenges in Narnia
(28:13) Controversies Surrounding Narnia Adaptation Hope
(40:12) Fantasy Podcast

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Root and Twig - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 4

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Circle of Shadows: Dark Academia with Marisa Linton

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0000

We’re thrilled to welcome Marisa Linton to this episode of Mythmakers. A former student from our writing course and a valued member of one of our writers' groups, Marisa recently won the Times Chicken House Fiction Competition for her YA fantasy title The Binding Spell, and she’s now stepping into new territory with the release of her first adult fantasy detective novel, The Circle of Shadows.

As a retired historian, Marisa is the perfect guest to speak to about the blend of historical fact and fiction. Join us as we spend some time in the Edwardian period and delve into the archives of the great universities to answer the questions: is Dark Academia really a genre? And in which fantasy world is it a good place to fight the occult? All this and more in today’s conversation!

Discover more about Marisa and her written works at https://www.marisalinton.com/

(00:05) Marisa Linton
(10:52) Edwardian Era and Occult Mysteries
(23:31) Exploring Dark Academia and Publishing
(29:29) Discovering the Art of Editing

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Can't Take His Medicine - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 3

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Thirst: Horror Folk Stories, Uncanny Rivers and the Walking Dead

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Joining us on Mythmakers today is Darren Simpson, author of Thirst—a spooky folkloric tale for readers aged 11 and up. In conversation with Julia Golding, Darren shares how he crafted the eerie world of his novel, drawing inspiration from myths and legends while carefully navigating messaging, naming, and the challenges of writing and editing.

But that’s not all, as his book is populated by splendid revenant creatures from the river, we take the opportunity to ask: where is the best place in all fantasy to be a zombie? You might be surprised by our picks...

Learn more about Darren, and his works, at https://darrensimpsonwrites.co.uk/

(00:05) Fantasy Writers Explore Inspirations and Books
(06:24) Folklore-Inspired Fantasy Novel Thirst
(15:16) Character Naming and Moral Complexity
(20:24) Folklore, Magic, and Moral Dilemmas
(31:49) Publishing Journey and Working With Editors
(35:02) Authors Discuss Editing, Publishing Realities

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Not Idly Do The Leaves Of Lorien Fall - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 2

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Marve and the Firstborn of the Sun: Mining Your Culture for New Fantasy Ideas

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0000

An exciting new voice has arrived in the epic fantasy genre. In this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding is joined by author Marvellous Michael Anson—known as Marve—to discuss her trilogy, The Firstborn of the Sun.

Marve shares how her Nigerian heritage has shaped her writing, the role of her grandmother as the source of oral storytelling, and how to handle romance without heading down the romantasy direction. Join Julia and Marve as they dive into the topic of diversity in publishing, as well as the impact of AI, and so much more.

Marve's book is available for purchase from October 2025, you can preorder it now and learn more about her and her works at https://www.justmarve.org/home

(00:05) Creating New Mythologies in Fantasy
(10:48) Exploring Love and Cultural Roots
(15:35) Diversifying Voices in Fantasy Publishing
(21:24) Cultural Authenticity in Creative Storytelling
(30:34) Character Descriptions and Cultural Representation
(37:58) Exploring Magic and Creativity in Fantasy

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Forth the Three Hunters! - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Bk 3 Ch 1

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Climate Change and Fantasy: H.S. Norup and The Changeling Child

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0000

We’re kicking off Season 8 of Mythmakers with a relevant and enchanting conversation, as Julia Golding welcomes Helle Norup back to the podcast. Having just published the second book in her children’s series, The Changeling Child, Helle’s feisty heroine, Saga, is an environmental campaigner—so we’re taking the opportunity to explore the long and evolving relationship between fantasy and the environment.

Can fantasy do something unique in this space that other genres can’t? Or are we simply rearranging deckchairs on the Titanic? Join us as we journey through the major titles that contribute to this debate, from Tolkien and Lewis to Richard Adams and Margaret Atwood. From defeating monsters to enchanting the woods, stay with us to the end to discover which fantasy world is the best place to be an environmental campaigner.

(00:05) Fantasy and Sci-Fi Addressing Environment
(10:19) Exploring Fantasy and Environment Relations
(28:59) Hope and Action in Climate Crisis
(35:55) Exploring Fantasy and Environmental Activism

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website
Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram
Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook
TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Encore: Andy Serkis Audio Book of The Lord of the Rings - Our Verdict

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Big news for Tolkien fans was the release of Andy Serkis unabridged version of The Lord of the Rings with Harper Collins on Audible. In this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding reviews the recording, comparing it to the BBC dramatised version from 1981 and the Robert Inglis reading of 1990. Which version has the best songs? Who dares to dip into the appendices? Is there a rival to Andy's Gollum? Julia concludes with recommendations as to which might suit you and your listening needs.

(00:05) Exploring Lord of the Rings Audiobooks
(08:57) LOTR Audiobook Version Comparison
(18:51) Amazon Prime Lord of the Rings

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Encore: Did Peter Jackson Get It Right? The Return of the King Movie Reconsidered

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Where would you rate The Return of the King in the trilogy? Join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker on today's episode of Mythmakers as they take a deep dive into the script and movie-making choices of the adaptation of the concluding part of The Lord of the Rings. What are your perfect moments - and your fails? Julia and Jacob disagree over one big scene - whose side are you on? Where are the opportunities for future filmmakers if they want to put their own stamp on the material? To conclude we pick our best fantasy world to be a king.

(00:05) Visual Choices in Return of the King
(14:18) Memorable Visual Moments in Film
(27:24) Multiple Endings in Return of King
(37:13) Necessary Endings in Film Stories
(51:56) Kingdoms of Fantasy Thrones Discussion

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Encore: Did Peter Jackson Get It Right? The Two Towers Movie Reconsidered

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Middle films are always the most difficult. In this episode Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker continue their reconsideration of the Peter Jackson trilogy, turning their attention to The Two Towers. They consider the perfect moments and the fails, with one serious criticism which could definitely to revisited if a filmmaker takes it on again. Remember with them the wonder of Rohan, the storming of Isengard, and the introduction of Gollum. What was the big fail? It jarred at the time but now seems even more inappropriate. Listen and find out! Let us know if you agree.

(00:05) Discussion of "The Two Towers" Film
(08:07) Exploring "The Two Towers"
(25:12) Character Analysis in the Two Towers
(40:46) Fantasy Tree Worlds Discussion

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Encore: Did Peter Jackson Get It Right? The Fellowship of the Ring Movie Reconsidered

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 11:00:00 -0000

20 years from now someone somewhere will surely be considering having another go at The Lord of the Rings on film. In this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding is joined by academic and Tolkien fan Jacob Rennaker to look back at the Peter Jackson adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ring, considering the script choices and casting, the cuts and the visual realisation. What were the moments that could not be bettered, and where is the room for a new creative to have another go? Have a listen and see if you agree!

(00:05) Analyzing the Changes in LOTR Films
(08:32) Exploring Themes and Moments in LOTR
(18:01) Critiquing LOTR Films
(34:47) Analysis of Omissions in LOTR Films
(41:41) Visualizing and Enhancing LOTR Locations

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Encore: Tolkien's Modern Reading with Holly Ordway

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0000

We are so used to thinking of Tolkien being all about the past - old languages, old stories and no post-Shakespearean literature going into his cauldron of story-making, but of course that is wrong. Meet Dr Holly Ordway, whose fantastic book, Tolkien's Modern Reading, is a scholarly and entertaining exploration of the breadth of books in many genres that Tolkien was reading. From The Land of Snergs, to Swallows and Amazons, to Agatha Christie, he was catholic in his tastes, in the sense of universal.
Follow our wide-ranging discussion from the books of Tolkien's youth, to those he read his children, and on to the adult novels he read and appreciates - as well as those he didn't like. Stick around to find out where we would set a boys' own adventure!

(00:05) Exploring Tolkien's Modern Reading
(10:13) Influences on Tolkien's Writing
(24:59) Tolkien's Diverse Reading Influences
(42:26) Adventure Influences in Tolkien's World

Find out more about Holly and her works here: https://www.wordonfire.org/tolkien/

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Encore: The Oddest Inkling - Charles Williams with Sørina Higgins

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0000

The oddest Inkling - that's Charles Williams, poet, playwright, novelist, editor, theologian and occult practitioner. If you think the Inklings are summed up by Oxford dons, Lewis and Tolkien, think again, because Williams added an extraordinary influence to the group.

Today on Mythmakers Julia Golding is joined by world expert on Charles William, Dr Sørina Higgins, who has edited a modern edition of Williams Arthurian cycle of poems and is working on his connections to other writers of the period. This episode is everything you needed to know about Williams and were too afraid to ask! Did he influence Tolkien and Lewis, and if so in what way? What's it like to read his poetry? As we gallop through his many genres you'll get a sense of what there is to read - there's a lot! To conclude we take a bow towards Arthur and decide where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a knight.

(00:05) Charles Williams' Life and Works
(08:52) Exploring Charles Williams' Theology and Plays
(17:43) Charles Williams' Theology and Poetry
(27:13) Exploring Charles Williams' Influence and Legacy

For more information on Dr Sørina Higgins and her various works, visit https://sorinahiggins.com/

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Encore: The Wonderful Worlds Of TA White

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 14:51:02 -0000

It’s not every day you get to interview one of your heroes, but in this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding is in conversation with one of hers. Meet T.A. White, the American author behind several acclaimed series that cross the fantasy genres. Tobey shares her journey into writing, including a unique background that offers insight into authority and combat. She offers thoughtful reflections on her writing process, tips for crafting strong characters, and how to handle the art of a slow-burn romance. The episode concludes with a fun discussion: which fantasy world has the best maps? A must-listen for aspiring writers and anyone in search of their next favourite series.

(00:05) Fantasy Author Exploring Genre Diversity
(14:45) Character Development Through Genre Exploration
(24:09) Slow Burn Romance Writing and World Building

For more information on TA White, and to explore her literary works, visit http://www.tawhiteauthor.com/home.html

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: Wrap Up of The Fellowship of the Ring

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this special Sidecast episode, Julia Golding revisits some of the most engaging moments from an author’s journey through The Fellowship of the Ring. From the confusion and peril of Weathertop to the hidden histories unearthed in Rivendell and the forging of great swords and alliances, we take a look back at some of the highlights of Tolkien’s storytelling craft through the eyes of an experienced writer.

Listen in as we celebrate the wonder, complexity, and humanity woven into every chapter—and take a brief respite before embarking on the next leg of the journey in The Two Towers.

(00:05) Reflections on Lord of the Rings
(13:56) Unveiling History and Establishing Alliances
(20:14) The Fellowship's Journey Begins

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Season 7 Wrap Up

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Once again, we have come to the end of another enthralling season of Mythmakers, we’ve embarked on many adventures spanning a variety of fantasy realms and topics, featuring some truly fascinating guests.

On today’s wrap up episode, Julia Golding takes us on a journey through some of the most popular and thought-provoking moments of our seventh season. From cinematic battles in Rohan to the strange power of medieval book curses, and from Lewis’s medieval cosmos to the evolution of Tolkien’s poetry and prose—this is a celebration of storytelling in all its forms. Joined by guests including Dr Eleanor Baker, Professor Nick Groom, and Jacob Rennaker, Julia explores how the fantastic continues to shape our imaginations, our worldviews, and our literary landscape.

(00:05) Fantasy Podcast Season Wrap-Up
(12:29) Medieval Mindset and Tolkien's Poetry
(24:47) Evolution of Tolkien's Poetry

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 10

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 9

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Emily J. Taylor: The Otherwhere Post

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In today’s episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding sits down with bestselling author Emily J. Taylor to discuss her second novel, The Otherwhere Post (Penguin US / Pushkin Press UK). Set in a world where magic is powered by handwriting, the story follows Maeve, a determined heroine fighting to prove her father’s innocence for a crime that has affected all three realms.

Emily shares her journey to becoming a writer, including a brief stop to reflect on the Twilight stories and what made them such a phenomenon. The conversation also explores her creative process and the possibilities of a story centred on an isolated community. For those interested, the poem Julia references is The Night Train by W. H. Auden.

You can follow Emily, and her work, on her website https://emilyjtaylorauthor.com/

(00:05) Fantasy Author Interview
(13:59) World Building and Setting Periods
(24:24) Microcosms in World Building

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 8

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Tolkien's Tales from the Perilous Realm

Thu, 29 May 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In 1997, Tolkien’s publishers collected several of his shorter works and published a collection titled ‘Tales from the Perilous Realm’—a BBC radio adaptation soon followed.

In this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker unpack the collection, examining each story in turn. Are they all truly set in perilous realms? How do these realms connect to Middle-earth? And which tale is the best entry point for readers who may be hesitant to venture beyond The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings? The episode concludes with a lively discussion on a fitting question: which is the most perilous realm in all of fantasy?

(00:05) Tolkien's Tales From Perilous Realm
(11:12) Comparing Farmer Giles and Leaf
(19:11) Exploring Tolkien's Leaf by Niggle
(29:05) Exploring Tolkien's "Smith of Wootton Major"
(42:19) Tolkien's Adventures
(50:42) Exploring Perilous Realms and Fantasy Worlds

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 7

Thu, 22 May 2025 11:00:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 6

Thu, 15 May 2025 11:00:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 5

Thu, 08 May 2025 11:00:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 4

Thu, 01 May 2025 11:00:00 -0000

(00:05) Journey Through Moria
(14:54) The Doors of Moria
(31:34) Moria Obstacles and Character Insights
(46:20) Dwarf's Death and Elegy

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

William Morris, Tolkien and The House of the Wolfings

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0000

If you love Rohan and want to delve into Tolkien’s influences, you’ll enjoy reading William Morris’s 1889 fantasy novel The House of the Wolfings.

Join Dr Ingrid Hanson of the University of Manchester as she takes Julia Golding deep into the heart of Mirkwood in today’s episode of Mythmakers. Discover the fabulous female characters, Hall Sun and Wood Sun, along with the landscapes and artefacts that inspired Tolkien.

You can explore this text—and other works by Morris—at the Iowa University's Morris Archive: https://morrisarchive.lib.uiowa.edu/exhibits/show/titles
The Indian story of liberated women mentioned by Ingrid can be read here: https://digital.library.upenn.edu/women/sultana/dream/dream.html

(00:05) William Morris and House of Wolfings
(12:08) Exploring William Morris's Fantasy Writing
(21:51) Exploring William Morris's Ecological Architecture
(30:53) Politics and Fantasy in Morris's World

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 3

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0000

(00:05) Chapter Three
(14:46) Journey, Fellowship, and Cultural Insights
(25:09) Ancient Lands and Unseen Threats

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Tolkien the Poet: Our verdict on the New Collected Poems of JRR Tolkien

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0000

A fabulous new addition to the world of Tolkien literature is the recently published collection of his poetry.

Today on Mythmakers, join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker as they guide you through the highlights and must-read pieces, delving into Tolkien’s remarkable range and versatility. They explore what the collection reveals about his creative processes—did you know that, at one point, there were nine rings for the Elf-lords? The poems capture Tolkien wrangling his ideas as they evolve into their final form. There’s much to learn and discuss—enjoy!

The poems are edited by Christina Scull and Wayne G. Hammond and published by HarperCollins.

(00:05) Exploring Tolkien's Poetry Collections
(15:36) Evolution of Tolkien's Myth-Making
(21:49) Unveiling Tolkien's Poetic Process
(30:12) Tolkien's Poetry Evolution and Purpose
(37:41) Tolkien's Evolution of Poetic Hope
(47:40) Tolkien's Poetry
(52:14) Poetry in Fantasy Worlds

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 2

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0000

(00:05) The Council of Elrond Analysis
(08:53) Council of Elrond Characters and Politics
(20:43) The Council's Decision and Frodo's Offer
(32:35) Mythmakers Podcast

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Curse of the Silvan Oaks: Meet Debut Fantasy Writer, Georgia Channon

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000

It’s truly delightful when a world imagined by a dreamy child eventually blossoms into a novel for the adult writer.

In this episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding meets with Georgia Channon, who first conceived the idea for her book many moons ago during a school trip to a production of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Georgia shares her journey from stage to page, along with insights into what publishers are currently seeking from authors in this genre. Together, they explore the abundance of portal fantasy stories and discuss particularly what Georgia is doing with hers. Stay tuned to discover where they would both choose to become heroes!

(00:05) Author's Journey Into Fantasy Accents
(12:52) Exploring Portals and Magical Worlds
(23:02) Discovering Heroes in Fantasy Worlds

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 2 Chapter 1

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000

(00:05) Exploring Many Meetings in Middle-earth
(11:37) Journey Into Tolkien's Ethereal World
(26:01) Character Development in Middle-earth
(38:52) Interweaving Poetry and Tolkien's Themes

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Twenty-First Century Tolkien: Prof Nick Groom and What Tolkien Means to Us Today—Part 2

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0000

What a breath of fresh air it is to find an academic as passionate about discussing the adaptations of Tolkien works, as he is about Tolkien’s books!

Today, on Mythmakers, in this wide-ranging interview, Julia Golding meets with Professor Nick Groom to discuss his book Twenty-First Century Tolkien. In the first part of their discussion, Nick provided a serious literary critical attention to The Lord of the Rings before moving on to explore its various adaptations. If you’ve not heard of it, you may be intrigued—perhaps even shocked—by the unmade John Boorman treatment, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the others, including Ralph Bakshi’s animated film, the BBC audio drama, as well as Peter Jackson’s films, The Rings of Power, and The War of the Rohirrim.

Join us for Part 2 of this fascinating dialog.

(00:06) Adapting Tolkien
(16:31) Exploring Adaptations of Tolkien's Works
(24:05) Examining Rings of Power Adaptations
(32:05) Fantasy Adaptations and Lockdown Worlds

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Twenty-First Century Tolkien: Prof Nick Groom and What Tolkien Means to Us Today—Part 1

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:21:58 -0000

What a breath of fresh air it is to find an academic as passionate about discussing the adaptations of Tolkien works, as he is about Tolkien’s books!

Today, on Mythmakers, in this wide-ranging interview, Julia Golding meets with Professor Nick Groom to discuss his book Twenty-First Century Tolkien. In the first part of their discussion, Nick provides a serious literary critical attention to The Lord of the Rings before moving on to explore its various adaptations. If you’ve not heard of it, you may be intrigued—perhaps even shocked—by the unmade John Boorman treatment, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the others, including Ralph Bakshi’s animated film, the BBC audio drama, as well as Peter Jackson’s films, The Rings of Power, and The War of the Rohirrim.

Join us for Part 1 of this fascinating dialog.

(00:05) Author's Analysis of "Flight to the Ford"
(14:06) Paths of Hope and History

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Dr Eleanor Baker: Book of Curses and the Power of the Word

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Words have the power to bless and to curse. In a fascinating discussion with Dr Eleanor Baker of Oxford University, Julia Golding takes Mythmakers on an exploration of the world of book curses in Eleanor’s Bodleian Library little book called—inevitably enough—Book Curses!

From there, we’ll go on to look at the Medieval culture of the book, and the role of magic books and curses in fantasy literature throughout the ages.

(00:05) Exploring Book Curses and History
(09:02) Magical Elements in Medieval Books
(18:08) Power of Curses in Fantasy Literature
(29:18) Exploring Magical Elements in Fantasy

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 12

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

(00:05) Author's Analysis of "Flight to the Ford"
(14:06) Paths of Hope and History

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Discarded Image and the Key to Narnia

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Do you want to know the key to the Narnian universe?

Today, on Mythmakers, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker take a quick tour around the seven heavens as they discuss C.S. Lewis's book The Discarded Image, as well as the Medieval model, Michael Ward's groundbreaking study, Planet Narnia, and so much more. What other scientific model inspirations have writers found, and where would it be best to live within a Medieval universe? Join the conversation as we find out!

Among the books mentioned is Ted Chiang’s Stories of Your Life and Others, available at: https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/ted-chiang/stories-of-your-life-and-others/9781035038596 as well as Cixin Liu’s Three Body Problem: https://torpublishinggroup.com/the-three-body-problem/

(00:05) CS Lewis and the Discarded Image
(16:51) CS Lewis and Science
(25:22) Planetary Imagery in Narnia
(37:07) Lewis
(53:30) Fantasy Reimaginings of Medieval Worlds
(58:41) Rethinking the Discarded Image

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Dragons, Victorians and Forests: Professor John Holmes on Performing Tolkien's Lecture, William Morris and Much More!

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:05:00 -0000

You certainly won't want to miss today’s episode of Mythmakers where Julia Golding is meeting with Professor John Holmes from Birmingham University.

John has made a name for himself by giving performances of Tolkien's 1938 lecture on dragons, complete with the magic lantern slides discovered in the archives of Oxford's Natural History Museum. Today, John and Julia will go on to discuss the fantasy writers of the Victorian period, Pre-Raphaelites, William Morris and Ruskin—all important influences on today’s modern fantasy, often mediated via Tolkien. In this discussion’s final lap, John talks about his work taking people into a very special forest—Ruskin Land—and researching their response to fantasy forests read in situ.

To learn more about Birmingham Institute for Forest Research (BIFoR), and to take a virtual tour of Ruskin Land, visit the links below:

https://canvas.bham.ac.uk/courses/52405/pages/cross-curricular-climate-change-education

https://www.thinglink.com/card/1803482248435991014

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

(00:05) Exploring Tolkien's Dragons Lecture
(11:29) Exploring Tolkien's Creative Influence
(18:13) Exploring Influences on Tolkien's Fantasy
(30:57) Fantasy Authors' Shared Social Critique
(35:37) Enchanting Forests in Fantasy Literature

The War of the Rohirrim: Our Verdict

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 10:05:00 -0000

Is this film a hit or miss? Did the New Zealand team, led by Phillippa Boyens, Japanese director Kenji Kamiyama and Executive Producer Peter Jackson, deliver? That's the question that preoccupies Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker today as they dissect their response to The War of the Rohirrim, in the Season 7 debut episode of Mythmakers.

Listen in to their nuanced account of the good and less than great parts of the film, and stay tuned for what they believe is the biggest challenge faced by the upcoming movie: The Hunt for Gollum. Do you agree with their star rating? Contact the Oxford Centre for Fantasy and let us know your thoughts!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

(00:05) War of the Rohirrim Film Review
(11:58) Heroic Women and Oral Storytelling
(23:46) Animation Challenges in Character Development
(32:32) Character Development in the Legend of Helm
(39:53) Analyzing Character Development in Film
(46:54) Casting Choices in Film Sequels

Mythmakers Season 6 Wrap Up

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Season 6 of Mythmakers has been a whirlwind of captivating stories, thought-provoking discussions, and fascinating insights into the world of fantasy and beyond. As we reach the end of this season, we're taking a moment to reflect on some of the standout moments with a collection of clips from five fan-favourite episodes.

Join Julia Golding as we journey to revisit a daring Young Adult heist set in a fantastical world, delve into the intersection of poetry and illustrations, and step onto the historic streets of Oxford to uncover the inspirations of C.S. Lewis. We'll dip back into our Sidecast, just as our adventurers are truly setting off, before taking another look at our verdict of The Rings of Power’s second season.

Thank you for joining us on this adventure so far—stay tuned as we continue to explore the fantasy genre, hear from a variety of esteemed authors, and so much more in season 7!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

(0:00:05) - Fantasy Podcast Wrap-Up and Insights

(0:08:03) - Learning and Creativity in Illustration

(0:15:29) - Exploring Traditions and Literary Details

(0:26:52) - Echoes of the Rings of Power

Hannah Kingsley: Soul Hate and Battling Your Fate

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

How does one come up with an original idea for a fantasy story? Hannah Kingsley in her debut novel Soul Hate (due to come out in February 2025) has taken the trope of the ‘soul mate’ and asked the question: 'what if...you had a soul hate?'

Join us on today’s episode of Mythmakers as she discusses with Julia Golding the origins of her story and the importance of giving her heroine a job that she felt passionately about. Hannah, being a gifted artist herself, is crafting special editions of the novel with custom spray-painted edges – you’ll want to hear how she came to develop this part of her creativity!

For more information about Hannah's incredible art visit https://www.kingdombookdesigns.com

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers

3:05 Soul Hate and Fated Lovers

8:54 Crafting Strong Female Characters

12:13 Politics in Fantasy Worlds

14:28 Exploring Love Triangles

17:28 Real-World Parallels of Soul Hate

19:57 The Writing Process

22:18 Modern Vocabulary in Fantasy

26:20 The Role of Artisans

34:03 Fate in Fantasy Worlds

36:01 Humor in Fantasy Settings

Set sail with Rose Black and her Fantasy Pirate Adventure: Fated Winds and Promising Seas

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Today, the Mythmakers podcast is setting sail with author Rose Black on a new fantasy pirate adventure for an adult audience: Fated Winds and Promising Seas (available on Hodderscape). Julia Golding discusses with Rose where the idea came from – and it’s not the usual place in this case!

In a book about freedom and predestination, they go on to discuss representation in fantasy books and writing from a perspective that might seem not to be your own – how an author has to navigate the shoals of freedom to write the story she feels drawn to create, and reception of that within the world. Finally, they settle on where the best place would be to be rescued by pirates!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers

2:40 Journey to Becoming an Author

4:40 Exploring Fated Winds and Promising Seas

7:53 Themes of Freedom and Authority

11:37 The Cost of Magic

15:38 Representation in Fantasy

19:07 Inspirations from Pirate Media

23:18 The Influence of Dungeons & Dragons

26:01 Future Writing Projects

27:38 Imagining Fantasy Worlds

Helen Glynn Jones and The Last Raven: Vampires, Humans and Other Monsters

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 10:05:00 -0000

What would it be like to be the only human in a family of vampires? This is the dilemma that Helen Glynn Jones' character faces in the first part of her Ravens series: The Last Raven.

Helen joins Julia Golding in today’s episode of Mythmakers to discuss the tradition of vampire myths around the world in the places she's lived, and in her own version as she imagines that being human is what makes you the monster. They go on to discuss betrayal as a plotline, coming of age, as well as the experience of being edited. Stay tuned to find out their picks for the best place to be turned into a vampire.

To purchase your own copy of The Last Raven visit: https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/the-last-raven-the-ravens-book-1-helen-glynn-jones?variant=40805269798990

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers

3:32 Journey Through Fantasy Literature

4:20 Exploring Vampire Myths Worldwide

6:37 The Last Raven: Story Insights

12:26 Love, Betrayal, and Vampire Romance

15:06 Age Ranges and Young Adult Fiction

17:47 Coming of Age in Fantasy Stories

21:33 The Impact of Betrayal in Plot

25:51 The Editing Process Uncovered

30:53 Thoughts on Blogging and Writing

34:00 Choosing the Best Fantasy World

Tad Williams and the Navigator's Children: How to Wrap up a Vast Epic Fantasy

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Author Tad Williams is well-known for his epic fantasy series, such as The Dragonbone Chair, as well as his sci-fi and urban fantasy works. He joins us today on the Mythmaker's podcast to talk to Julia Golding about The Navigator's Children, his conclusion to a vast epic, this part called The Last King of Osten Ard. This achievement has been compared to Tolkien's legendarium in its ambitious scope, so it is not surprising to hear that Tolkien was one of Tad’s major influences. He tells Julia about how he manages such a complicated, woven plot, how he keeps track, and what steps he takes before getting down to writing, as well as much more. Stick around to hear where would be best for a creation myth in all fantasy!

To learn more about Tad, and to get your own copies of his incredible books, visit https://hodderscape.co.uk/collections/author-tad-williams-pid-86249?_pos=1&_psq=tad+william&_ss=e&_v=1.0

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers
11:09 Early Influences on Fantasy Writing
26:45 Transitioning to Writing
40:02 The Last King of Ostern Ard Series
49:21 Music and Storytelling in Fantasy

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 11

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:07 A Knife in the Dark

6:33 The Shire's Unusual Cutaway

11:01 Frodo and Strider's Cinematic Shift

20:59 The Midgewater Marshes

27:15 The Approach of the Black Riders

33:39 The Tale of Beren and Luthien

35:02 The Gathering Storm

37:56 Frodo's Bravery and the Ring's Toll

Mythmakers meets The Mythmakers: John Hendrix and his Graphic Novel about Tolkien and Lewis

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

In a perfect fit for the Mythmakers podcast, join us for today’s episode where Julia Golding meets illustrator and author John Hendrix to talk about his entertaining graphic novel: The Mythmakers. This is the story of the friendship between J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, and not only is it a biography of their fellowship, but it also explores in the company of our guides, a lion and a wizard, what the story is and where it comes from. Julia and John conclude by pondering where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place for a cartoonist (and also discuss some of the worst!).

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Introduction to Mythmakers

1:21 Childhood Influences and Fantasy Beginnings

4:21 The World of Comics and Graphic Novels

5:28 Journey to Writing Mythmakers

8:33 Exploring Mythmakers Structure

10:31 Visual Inspiration from Oxford

13:23 Mythologizing the Friendship of Lewis and Tolkien

14:46 The Inklings: A Literary Life

18:33 Tension and Dynamics of Creative Friendships

21:39 Perceptions of the Inklings in Academia

23:24 Religious Differences and Their Impact

28:28 The Mythos-Logos Division in Storytelling

31:04 Cartoons in Fantasy Worlds

34:42 Future Projects and Farewell

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 10

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 10:05:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:05 Introduction to Fellowship of the Ring

1:07 The Pace of Dialogue

4:08 Strider's True Nature

7:29 Trust and Instinct

9:30 Barleyman's Comic Relief

12:14 The Letter from Gandalf

16:19 Insights into Strider

19:31 The Quest and Its Stakes

22:18 The Power of the Black Riders

24:58 Preparing for the Night

28:44 Safe for the Moment

Let's talk about mermaids: Berlie Doherty, Tamsin Rosewell and The Seamaiden's Odyssey

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Mermaids come with some watery baggage, which raises the question: just how does one do a fresh take on this iconic mythical creature?

This was the challenge facing Berlie Doherty and Tamsin Rosewell - a writer and illustrator team. Find out their answers to this question in today’s episode of Mythmakers where they’ll be diving into the reinvention of mermaids in their fascinating conversation with Julia Golding. Did you know there are legends of inland mermaids? And where exactly is the best place to be a mermaid in all the fantasy worlds?

If you want to find out more about this intriguing topic after listening to the discussion, you can visit Berlie's website at https://berliedoherty.com/new-book-the-seamaidens-odyssey/ and follow Tamsin on Instagram at @hobs_lantern.

If you want a signed copy of their book, check out the wonderful https://www.madhatterbookshop.co.uk

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Underwater Kingdom Journey

2:47 Childhood Inspirations

4:20 Illustrative Styles

7:27 Story Overview

11:43 Sea Maiden Concept

14:12 Evolution of the Sea Maiden

17:39 Themes of Sisterhood

20:44 Collaboration Process

25:27 Artistic Techniques

34:49 Tips for Aspiring Creatives

39:21 Imagining Fantasy Worlds

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 9

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:10:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:09 Introduction to Bree and the Prancing Pony

5:24 The Journey to the Prancing Pony

12:42 Meeting the Gatekeeper

17:40 Entering the Prancing Pony

20:32 Pippin's Tales and the Stranger

26:34 Frodo's Song and the Ring's Power

30:26 Suspicion Lingers

C.S. Lewis's Oxford

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 10:05:00 -0000

Today on Mythmakers, Julia Golding is joined by Professor Simon Horobin who has stepped into C.S. Lewis's shoes at Magdalen College, Oxford, and now he has written a beautiful book detailing Lewis's relationship with the iconic city. Join us as he discusses with Julia the peculiarities of college life in Oxford, the move to Cambridge later in life, Headington and the Kilns, as well as C.S. Lewis as a poet. The discussion ends off by venturing through the wardrobe into different fantasy lands…

Simon's book is available for purchase at https://bodleianshop.co.uk/products/c-s-lewiss-oxford

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Welcome to Mythmakers

3:38 The Legacy of C.S. Lewis

6:12 Exploring C.S. Lewis's Oxford

9:56 Oddities of Magdalen College

12:15 Women in Lewis's Life

15:00 Life at The Kilns

17:04 Lewis's Academic Journey

19:05 Surprising Discoveries in Archives

24:54 Transition to Cambridge

29:41 Oxford's Influence on Fantasy

35:08 Best Fantasy Worlds to Explore

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 8

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:06 Introduction to Fog on the Barrow Downs

2:44 Exploring Themes of Renewal

5:35 The Journey Begins

7:28 Warnings Ignored

9:36 The Fog of War

13:38 The Nature of Evil

18:26 The Power of Tom Bombadil

22:14 Shared Visions and Prophecies

23:35 Temptation and Contentment

24:55 Farewell to Tom Bombadil

Heroes and Villains: Ana Sampson and Chris Riddell

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Hero or Villain? These archetypal characters are the stock-in-trade of the fantasy genre, and so you’ll definitely enjoy this newest poetry anthology compiled by Ana Sampson, an experienced curator of poetry collections, and illustrated by the instantly recognizable pencil of Chris Riddell, multi-award-winning illustrator and former UK Children's Laureate.

Today on Mythmakers, in conversation with Julia Golding, Ana and Chris journey through history and genres, unearthing the gems. They reflect on the poems that inspired them as children, the role of compendiums in nurturing the artistic imagination, and why different approaches are often used to tell the same tale. They also explore the influence of politics on the anthology—and vice versa, and so much more. And if that wasn’t enough, Chris treats us to a live dragon sketch while several poems are read aloud—making this a truly unmissable episode!

Their book, Heroes and Villains: Poems about Legends (Macmillan), is available for purchase now. Credits for the poems read in full are: 'Nan Hardwicke Turns into a Hare' by Wendy Pratt, 'St Margaret of Antioch Speaks' by Jan Dean, 'If...' by James Carter, and 'The Dragons are Hiding' by Brian Moses.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:10 Welcome to Mythmakers

1:32 Childhood Poems That Shaped Us

5:27 The Lady of Shalott and Lockdown

10:15 The Role of Poetry Anthologies

12:05 Creating the Heroes and Villains Anthology

16:40 Exploring Heroes and Villains Through Poetry

20:2Research Gems in Poetry

36:19 Creative Tips for Aspiring Writers

39:04 Contemporary Issues in Fantasy

43:01 Collaborating with Publishers

46:56 The Intersection of Politics and Fantasy

52:46 Closing Thoughts and Inspiration

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 7

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to Tom Bombadil

1:53 Entering the Haven of Tom Bombadil

5:48 Goldberry's Enigmatic Welcome

16:38 The Shift to Storytelling

20:39 Dreams and Nightmares

23:21 A Rainy Day with Tom

26:54 Tom's Tales of Good and Evil

32:15 The Fast Forward of History

34:47 The Harmony of Tom and Goldberry

37:24 The Ring's Power Revealed

The Rings of Power Season 2: The Verdict

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 09:05:00 -0000

Have you enjoyed The Rings of Power Season 2? Join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker on today’s episode of Mythmakers as they offer their thoughts on the latest season of Amazon’s show. After sharing their initial impressions on the production and visual realisation, they delve deeper into the story choices, lore, and characters, before wrapping up with a rating out of 10 rings (what else would it be?). Along the way, they explore some controversial topics—does The Rings of Power have a female character problem, for instance? Have a listen and then let us know your thoughts!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Welcome to Mythmakers

14:21 Production Values Reviewed

17:34 Storylines and Structure

20:22 Long-Term Storytelling Challenges

23:29 Characters and Performances

59:53 Female Representation Issues

Kate Dylan: Until We Shatter and 'New Adult' Fantasy

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 09:05:00 -0000

Is it time that we revisit the category of 'New Adult' books again? Kate Dylan's fantasy heist story fits in this category, post YA but written for the reading tastes of the 20-something year old audience who've just graduated out that group.

On today’s episode of Mythmakers, Kate will be engaging in a fascinating discussion with Julia Golding about why the themes of being on the edge, close to shattering, work so well with that age group (and many others). They’ll also discuss queer relationships in novels and how the market has changed since Kate started writing. Think that you know where would be best to stage a heist? Their suggestions may surprise you!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Welcome to Mythmakers

1:37 The Influence of Young Adult Literature

4:02 Transitioning to Fantasy Writing

8:50 Themes of Betrayal and Growth

12:04 The Heist Novel Unveiled

19:24 Chaos in the Writing Process

25:51 Collaborative Storytelling

27:11 Exploring Queer Representation

32:37 The Value of Art in Fantasy

36:18 Balancing Writing with Daily Life

41:13 Tips for Aspiring Fantasy Writers

46:02 Magic in Fantasy Storytelling

49:09 Heisting in Fictional Worlds

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 6

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:05:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to Chapter 6

2:01 Preparing for Adventure

9:24 The Old Forest Beckons

18:41 Entering the Enchanted Realm

23:40 Meet Tom Bombadil

27:35 The Escape from Darkness

This Ravenous Fate: Hayley Dennings, Vampires and the Harlem Renaissance

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

On today’s episode of Mythmakers, we’re meeting an exciting new writer coming out of the Bay Area. Hayley Dennings, author of This Ravenous Fate, has chosen the Harlem Renaissance for her vampire thriller and love story. Join us as she speaks with Julia Golding about her debut, the authors that inspired her and how she got published—this being her 5th book, an encouraging message for aspiring authors! They go on to discuss race and sapphic characters in fantasy, as well as Black History and much, much more. Hayley also has some great tips for other writers and explains the reading she does in the background to inspire her wonderful prose. Say tuned to find out where you should set up a speakeasy in a fantasy world…

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Welcome to Mythmakers

6:08 The Journey to Publication

11:24 Dedication and Representation

16:26 Exploring Vampirism in the Jazz Era

19:57 Historical Context and Characters

25:33 Writing Style and Process

28:47 Upcoming Works and Future Plans

32:03 Imagining Fantasy Speakeasies

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 5

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:10:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to An Author's Journey

2:55 Shifting Tones in Tolkien's Writing

5:06 The Pivotal Decision to Leave

10:18 The Nature of the Narrator

12:23 The Conspiracy Revealed

14:34 Frodo's Dream and Its Significance

16:39 Preparing to Enter the Old Forest

Megan Whalen Turner: The Queen's Thief and the Secret of a Long Career as a Fantasy Writer

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:05:00 -0000

Welcome back to Mythmakers for our sixth season!

Megan Whalen Turner began her career in 1996 and is still going strong as her series The Queen's Thief becomes available in the UK and the Commonwealth for the first time. US readers have been enjoying the series for years and she won the Newbury Award and Mythopoeia Award in recognition of her achievements. Take a listen as she tells our host Julia Golding about her career, the books that inspired her, and her link to Oxford fantasy through Dianne Wynne Jones. Megan also shares with us her fascinating insights into her unique process for plotting!

You can catch up with Megan if you are near Bath, England, for the literary festival. Visit the link for more information: https://bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature/

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers Podcast

8:54 The Influence of Diana Wynne-Jones

13:01 Audiobooks and Storytelling

17:55 American Fantasy Influences

23:46 Cultural Storytelling in Fantasy

29:30 The Storytelling Process

35:44 The Mediterranean Influence

44:22 Advice for Aspiring Writers

44:36 Living in a Fantasy World

Mythmakers Season 5 Wrap Up

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 09:05:00 -0000

Season 5 of Mythmakers has been one of many adventures, and as the season comes to a close, we’re going to look back at 5 highlights from our most enjoyed episodes.

Join us as we dive back into the rising popularity of the Romantasy genre, before revisiting the presence of Fantasy at the Oscars. Appropriately, we’ll then steer the conversation towards our favourite Tolkien topics of this season, hearing some of Julia Golding’s travel recommendations when touring the film sites of Middle-earth in New Zealand, then hearing an extract from our sidecast where we’re taking a look at the LotR books through an author’s lens, before closing off by looking back into what we can expect in Peter Jackson and Andy Serkis' upcoming Hunt for Gollum film.

We thank you for accompanying us on this recent season and invite you to stay tuned for our upcoming journeys and discussions in Season 6.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

We Review The Letters of JRR Tolkien: Revised and Expanded Edition

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 09:05:00 -0000

As a fitting finale to our 5^th season of Mythmakers, we’re ending with Tolkien - namely his newly edited and augmented letters. Take a listen to Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker's 10 out of 10 review of the edition, they’ll break it down to what we learn about Middle-earth, how Middle-earth influenced his view of our real world events, his relationships (particularly with his family) the wars and all aspect to the letters - there's so much to discuss and to enjoy! Stay tuned for two particularly shocking details buried in the letters about hobbits and horses…

If you’re interested in the audio version mentioned, visit the link for a closer look: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Letters-of-J-R-R-Tolkien-Audiobook/B0CTNYDDKT

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers

2:11 Personalized Narration in Audiobook

3:34 Breaking Down Tolkien's Life in Letters

3:54 Tolkien's Views on Creativity

4:45 Insightful Letters: Tolkien vs. Other Literary Collections

5:34 Tolkien's Self-Deprecation and Passion in Letters

6:39 Emotional Range in Tolkien's Letters

8:24 Phases of Tolkien's Correspondents

13:45 Tolkien's Writing Process: Characters and Imagination

15:18 Tolkien's Unrevealed Stories and World Building

16:36 Tolkien's Lens on the World: War and Nature

16:36 Tolkien's Lens on the World: War and Nature (Continued)

23:52 Recommendation to Read Tolkien's Letters

26:56 Tolkien's Fatherly Concern in Letters

28:53 Tolkien's Letter on Faith and Angels

30:42 Tolkien's Reflections on Character Motives

32:04 Gollum's Near-Repentance in Tolkien's Eyes

56:37 Retirement and Lasting Legacy

1:01:06 Shadowfax's Journey to Valinor

1:02:31 Unique Delivery Methods in the Wizarding World

Samantha Shannon: The Bone Season 10th Anniversary Edition

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Imagine starting your journey as a fantasy writer in a media storm where you are greeted as the next J K Rowling. That's precisely what faced Samantha Shannon when her first novel The Bone Season was published while she was in her early 20s. Ten years on and an established writer, Samantha has re-edited the book and is celebrating this anniversary by finishing the fifth in the series.

Join us on today’s episode of Mythmakers as she discusses her beginnings as an author, her relationship to Oxford, and how she goes about her writing. You’ll want to hear her fantasy tips and find out her pick for the best place to have ESP!

For more information on Samantha visit her website at www.samanthashannon.co.uk and view her works on her publisher’s site at www.bloomsbury.com/uk/author/samantha-shannon

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers

4:20 Revisiting The Bone Season

5:54 Revising the Entire Series

6:31 Cathartic Editing Process

9:00 Coping with Media Expectations

10:36 Navigating Publishing Pressures

14:25 Unveiling the Atmosphere

18:10 Planting Seeds in Oxford

20:19 Finding Light in Darkness

23:54 Finding Family and Courage

25:53 Craft of World Building

35:20 Balancing Multiple Storylines

43:38 Writing Tip: Music Inspiration

45:38 Challenges of Magic Users

47:38 Exploring Different Worlds

Movies Showing Nowhere: Yorick Goldewijk and Memories in Fantasy

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 09:10:00 -0000

Today on Mythmakers, the Oxford Centre for Fantasy meets the winner of the Golden Pencil Prize for the best Dutch children's book of the year, Yorick Goldewijk, as his novel debuts in English. Movies Showing Nowhere, a fascinating middle-grade novel about memories, loss and time travel, is set in a special cinema which takes the hero, Cate, on an unexpected journey. This book will also take Yorick and Julia Golding down some interesting paths as they discuss the story and how we play out real world ideas in fantasy. Join us as they speak about misfits, grief, memory, therapy and so much more, ending off by deciding where in all the fantasy worlds they would go to look back at memories - from Galadriel's Mirror to Dumbledore's Pensieve - be sure to let us know if you agree with their picks!

For more information on Yorick visit his Facebook page at @yorick.goldewijk or follow him on Instagram at @yorickgoldewijk

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers

1:07 Yorick's Childhood Fantasy Influences

3:09 Yorick's Journey to Becoming an Author

6:09 Introduction to "Movies Showing Nowhere"

8:21 Theme of Grief and Embracing Life

13:11 Embracing Weirdness and Being a Misfit

16:20 Yorick's Creative Process with Music

20:57 Starting a Book with a Mood

28:24 Using Fantasy Worlds as Laboratories

29:57 Yorick's Future Book Themes

33:59 Imagining Memories with Extraordinary Minds

36:46 Journeys into Extraordinary Minds and Narnia

39:02 Exploring Bran Stark's Memories in "Game of Thrones"

40:15 Recommendation of "Movies Showing Nowhere"

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 4

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 09:00:10 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction

2:06 Finding Refreshment in Nature

3:57 Tolkien's Discovery Writing

5:51 The Evolution of Sam

7:35 The Humour of Hobbits

8:03 Traversing the Shire

10:53 Elegiac Moment Under the Elm Tree

11:51 Pippin Leading the Way

12:16 Encounter with Farmer Maggot

14:52 Farmer Maggot's Encounter with the Black Rider

17:09 Frodo's Wild Past

20:13 Manners in the Maggot Household

Who's your Robin Hood: T.K. Hall & 'Shadow of the Wolf'

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Which was your first Robin?

Today on Mythmakers, Julia Golding speaks with author T.K. Hall about Robin Hood and how this tale has changed with the centuries. We take our cue from the beginning of The Fellowship of the Ring where Galadriel says 'History became legend. Legend became myth.' Do all Robin stories fall somewhere along that line?

Tim has offered, in his version, a mythic Robin connected to the wild wood. Listen in to find out how the story was inspired by a trip up the Amazon, as Julia and Tim discuss just how difficult is it to write a big fantasy trilogy. Tim will take us through his struggles since the first book was published in 2014 – as we know, writing isn't easy! We’ll end on a lighter note by discussing where Robin Hood might best fit in another fantasy world.

For more information on Shadow of the Wolf and its sequels, Dark Fire and Wildwood Rising, visit Tim's website at https://tkhallauthor.com/ and sign up for his newsletter at https://tkhallauthor.substack.com/

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to Mythmakers Podcast

0:53 Tim's First Encounters with Robin Hood

15:31 Tim's Struggles with the Second Book

16:47 Challenges of Writing a Trilogy

24:41 Influence of Greek Myths on Transformation

26:37 Robin's Transformation and Relationship with Nature

32:18 Handling Violence in the Story

33:56 Tim's Approach to Planning the Trilogy

35:48 David Fickling's Writing Wisdom

37:17 Learning to Allow Words to Flow

38:21 Publication Dates for Parts Two and Three

41:11 Imagining Robin Hood in Other Fantasy Worlds

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 3

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 09:10:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Twelve: Liz Hyder and Timeslip Fantasy

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:00:10 -0000

One of the things we love most is encouraging new voices in fantasy - and so on today’s episode of Mythmakers, we are delighted to meet Liz Hyder, author of award-winning Bearmouth and forthcoming The Twelve (coming October 2024 from Pushkin Press). The Twelve is a wonderful YA fantasy adventure set in Pembrokeshire Wales, it is a gripping mystery and a delightfully poetic read with a heart for the environment and the kids who don't quite fit in with other teens. Join us to hear Liz's journey to being a writer, the books she recommends and the processes she follows.

For more information on Liz and her works visit https://www.lizhyder.co.uk

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to MythMakers Podcast

1:22 Early Influences and Gateway Books

2:50 Discovering Tolkien and Alan Garner

5:17 Alan Garner's Influence and Ongoing Inspiration

9:29 Writing Apprenticeship and Novel Drafting

11:15 Letting Go of Published Works and Moving Forward

12:30 Introduction to "The 12" and its Setting

14:55 Comparisons to Other Fantasy Writers

16:48 Personal Connection to Wales and Manorbeer

21:44 Setting the Story at the Turn of the Millennium

26:55 Loneliness and Isolation

30:37 Childhood Bullying Experiences

33:52 Characters Finding Connection

34:55 Patterns and Themes Emergence

36:48 The Empowerment of Editing

40:21 The Complex Villain

44:42 Collaboration with Artist Tom de Fresten

46:21 Caravan Holiday Destination: Narnia

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 2

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The War of the Rohirrim: New LotR Film

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:05:00 -0000

Have you heard about the new Lord of the Rings film? Not The Hunt for Gollum, but another from the Peter Jackson writing team! Philippa Boyens has teamed up with the next generation, in her daughter Pheobe Gittins and her writing partner Arty Papageorgiou, to produce an anime-style fantasy film based on the story of Helm Hammerhand and his family. A strong voice cast has been announced, led by Brian Cox joined by Miranda Otto returning as Eowyn, presumably in a storytelling capacity as Eowyn belongs to a much later generation. Join us as we find out where the material sits in the Tolkien legendarium. What does the story contain? Why is it being made? What do we think of the blend of Tolkien material and the anime style of Kenji Kamiyama? Take a listen and let us know your thoughts!

The film is due to be out in December 2024. For visuals and more information visit the link for a closer look: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14824600/fullcredits?ref_=tt_ov_wr_sm

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

0:00 Introduction to MythMakers

12:10 The Practical Side

24:03 The Tragic Ending

33:12 Focus on Resilience

42:21 Hira's Journey

43:50 Rohan's Culture and Visuals

Sidecast - LOTR: An Author's Journey, Book 1 Chapter 1

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 09:10:00 -0000

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Lucy Strange: The Island at the Edge of Night

Thu, 30 May 2024 09:05:00 -0000

Ever wondered what it would be like to be caught in a living nightmare and shipped off to a mysterious island to attend a lethal boarding school? You can find out by joining Julia Golding and Lucy Strange on today’s episode of Mythmakers as they celebrate the publishing of Lucy's new middle grade novel: The Island at the Edge of Night. Stick around for lots of writing tips from one of Britain's most exciting writers for younger readers, and to ponder your favourite fantasy island...

If this has whetted your appetite for Lucy's book, you can get your copy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Island-Edge-Night-Waterstones-Prize-shortlisted/dp/1913322386/

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Rings of Power, Season 2: Our Hopes and Fears

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Amazon has released its teaser trailer and the first 'behind the scenes' video of The Rings of Power: Season 2. Join Julia Golding on today’s episode of Mythmakers to find out what appears to be included in this upcoming season. Do you share our hopes and fears that this series might not regain its mojo? Is it too sprawling, as Julia believes, or do you appreciate the epic scope? Let us know your thoughts!

For the trailer breakdown by Nerd of the Rings visit the link: https://youtu.be/TfddhM-LMnc?si=uPqi--Wkn3RiQt6u

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Hunt for Gollum: What Might Be in Peter Jackson and Andy Serkis' New Film

Thu, 16 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Very excitingly, Peter Jackson and Andy Serkis have announced that they are teaming up for a new film: The Hunt for Gollum. Join us on today’s episode of Mythmakers where Julia Golding will take us through the material that they will be drawing on and what the story possibilities are in this LotR prequel. Don't forget to let us know what you'd like to see included in the film!

Since recording this episode, the fan-made film that Julia speaks about has been allowed back on YouTube by Warner Bros (hooray!) so click the link below to watch it:

https://youtu.be/9H09xnhlCQU?si=4cafO8kxOO06U03x

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Should Dark Lords be Rationed? Evil in Fantasy - Part 2

Thu, 09 May 2024 09:00:05 -0000

Today on Mythmakers we enter into the second part of our discussion of evil in fantasy stories, progressing on to contemporary fantasy stories, and beginning with Harry Potter. Who is the most interesting evil character in Rowling's world? See if you agree with Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker’s picks! The discussion moves on to mad scientists, space operas, Star Trek, Dr Who, and Star Wars. While we can't cover everything, we do hope that you enjoy this in-depth tour of fantasy evil! Take a listen to Part 2 of the deep dive and let us know what you think.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Should Dark Lords be Rationed? Evil in Fantasy - Part 1

Thu, 02 May 2024 09:05:00 -0000

Terry Pratchett famously said that “dark lords should be rationed” - but there is so much more to say about evil in fantasy than the cliche of the dark lord in a sinister tower at the bottom right of your map! On today’s episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker look at the philosophical underpinnings of evil, starting with the Inklings. Moving from a discussion of the importance of the Fall in C.S. Lewis, to the purgatorial world of choices in Charles Williams, we complete this part of the journey by examining evil as a theme in Middle-earth. Julia and Jacob contest that there isn't actually a simple dark lord embodying evil in Tolkien - the location for evil is far more interesting than that! Join us in Part 1 of this discussion as we delve into all these topics and more…

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Top 5 Moments in The Lord of the Rings

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Join us on today’s episode of Mythmakers where we've boldly picked our top five moments in The Lord of the Rings novels! Have a listen as Julia Golding takes a closer look at each moment, diving into what exactly makes these five the top contenders. Agree with our choices? Let us know!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Historical v. Fantasy Fiction

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Join in on today’s episode of Mythmakers as we dive into the surprising similarities between writing historical fiction and fantasy fiction. Julia Golding, whose adult historical novel ‘The Persephone Code’ comes out this week, reflects on her experience of writing both. We go through the research, locations, rule setting and much more that goes into this process. Is magic a new Newtonian Law of Physics? Are many fantasy worlds, from Dune to Star Trek, an act of historical imagination? And do you agree with her examples of fantasy worlds that don't seem to be based on our lived experience? Listen now for all this, and more.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Romantasy: Rebecca Yarros and the Latest Fantasy Craze

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 09:05:00 -0000

What's all this fuss about romantasy? Accompany Julia Golding on today’s episode of Mythmakers on a quest for the origin of this sub-fantasy genre, and for the subsequent deep dive into Rebecca Yarros' breakout success: Fourth Wing. Can you find the recipe for a successful romantasy? Is it too late to join in the craze if you are a writer whose book fits in this genre? Listen now to find out!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Cultural Takeover? 3 Body Problem and Other Adaptations

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:05:00 -0000

Netflix’s 3 Body Problem has raised some questions as to whether or not it is right to move a story’s adaptation to a different country. Is it cultural appropriation or a justifiable reinterpretation? On today’s episode of Mythmakers, we’re taking a journey through Blade Runner, Matilda, and Wonka to HG Wells. Join the discussion as Julia Golding considers the pros and cons of moving a story to another cultural context.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Percy Jackson... Our Verdict on the Adaptations

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

What makes for a good adaptation of a beloved book series? Today on Mythmakers, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker discuss the latest fantasy series to undergo a significant adaptation: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief. What are the strengths of the book? What went wrong - or right - in the movie adaptation in 2010? And what has Disney made of the challenge, particularly as this time Rick Riordan, the author, was part of the production team? Join us for this intriguing discussion!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Damsels Not in Distress

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 09:05:00 -0000

On today’s episode of Mythmakers, Julia Golding reviews the latest Netflix fantasy film offering: Damsel, starring Millie Bobby Brown. Take a listen and see if you agree with her verdict! We’ll take a moment to think about the modern version of fairytale heroines - are they really so original?

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

New Zealand and Peter Jackson

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 09:05:00 -0000

What effect has Peter Jackson’s filming of two Tolkien trilogies had on New Zealand? Has New Zealand skewed our appreciation of Tolkien's works? What would happen if future filmmakers chose other locations - or ventured into a CGI environment?

Julia Golding has just arrived back from visiting this beautiful country, we invite you to join us as she and Jacob Rennaker discuss the growth of the film industry around one inspirational director. Listen in to find out the five top places to travel to and where else in the world you could pick to visit.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Oscars and Fantasy Movies

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

The Oscars are fast approaching and we’re starting off Season 5 of Mythmakers with Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker discussing the intriguing history of awards and fantasy films. It may not be true that fantasy films don't receive recognition, but which ones tend to attract the votes? And why don't performances in fantasy films receive many nominations? Join us for a deep dive back in time to see which films and performances we would nominate! What would be your pick?...

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Mythmakers Season 4 Wrap Up: Season Highlights

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As 2023 — and our fourth season of Mythmakers — draw to a close, we’re taking a look back at our 5 most popular episodes of the season. Whether you’re interested in vampires and werewolves, or the phenomenon of smaller than average folk being a story’s focus, or if you share our overwhelming fascination with the great J.R.R. Tolkien and his fellow Inklings, our season wrap up should pique all of your various fantasy interests!

Join Julia Golding (and her guest speakers) as we take a look back at a season of intriguing topics and revisit some of our most interesting discussions.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Universes - Good or Bad for Creativity

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 10:05:00 -0000

It would seem that every fandom is getting its own universe; First Marvel, then DC, Star Wars, Star Trek, Harry Potter and now the Whoniverse. Is this phenomenon good for the future of fantasy creativity? Which universes are flourishing, and which are exhausted? Join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker to consider this phenomenon and its effects, is it simply a cynical marketing pitch or do the roots of this idea reach back much further?

If you’re interested in learning more on this topic, Jacob recommends ‘All of the Marvels’ by Douglas Wolk.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Dr Who Episode: Steve Cole and MG Harris - Part 2

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Dr Who is celebrating 60 years and getting its own Whoniverse - thanks to the BBC link up with Disney. To celebrate this most British of time travellers, Julia Golding is joined by two Dr Who experts, Steve Cole and MG Harris. Both have written for the Dr Who spin-off books Steve, in particular, is very involved in current and future plans, including things he is sworn to secrecy over - and his knowledge is encyclopaedic. Join us for our discussion of all the doctors from Dr Who’s inception to the present day. Who was the best doctor? Which was the best episode? Where did it go wrong in the 80s and did it go wrong more recently with the last two doctors, or was something else at play?

For more information on Steve Cole’s works visit https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/175074/steve-cole

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

The Dr Who Episode: Steve Cole and MG Harris - Part 1

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

For more information on Steve Cole’s works visit https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/175074/steve-cole

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

CS Lewis 60 Years On

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:10:00 -0000

60 years on from the death of CS Lewis how is his legacy viewed? We’ll look at him as writer, academic and as a Christian apologist. Join us to find out why he is like camembert and to discover the hidden Lewis novel that you've probably not read - and yet it is arguably his best work for adults. Why has he attracted detractors, from his own biographer A.N. Wilson to Philip Pullman - and what are they missing? Was he racist or misogynistic? We debate! But mostly, we appreciate his literary gift to us in the Narnia stories.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

David D. Levine: The Kuiper Belt Job – Part 2

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:15:00 -0000

We are set for outer space as Julia Golding talks to the award-winning science fiction writer David D. Levine. David shares his journey into science fiction writing and guides us through a deep dive into the pulp fiction of the mid-20th century - so get your boy, babe, and bug-eyed monster ready! David is not just a writer, but an expert on sci-fi, so there is a lot to learn as the conversation skims from westerns, to Star Trek, Blake's Seven, Dr Who, Star Wars and Bladerunner to some lesser known sci-fi works that you'll want to put on your reading list.

If you want to find out more about David and his books, as well as catch him on his book tour, visit https://daviddlevine.com for more details.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

David D. Levine: The Kuiper Belt Job – Part 1

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 14:05:05 -0000

If you want to find out more about David and his books, as well as catch him on his book tour, visit https://daviddlevine.com for more details.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Vampires v. Werewolves - the Halloween Edition

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 14:15:00 -0000

As Halloween approaches Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker discuss the fantasy origins of two of our favourite spooky creatures - Vampires and Werewolves. Who was the inspiration for the first vampire novel? What are the origins of werewolves? Stop press - there is both a vampire and a werewolf in Tolkien’s works - but where? What evolving metaphors have the two creatures been associated with, ranging from romance, to slavery, to the feudal system and to puberty! Julia and Jacob exchange tips for the best books in the genre so stay tuned to pick up your next Halloween read.

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Result of the Oxford/Pushkin Children's Fantasy Prize

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 14:00:06 -0000

Join us for a very special episode of Mythmakers: an Inklings style reading of our finalists in the inaugural Oxford/Pushkin Children's Fantasy Prize. Meet all of the talented writers who made it to the finals and stay tuned to hear who our winner is!

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

Website: https://centre4fantasy.com/website

Instagram: https://centre4fantasy.com/Instagram

Facebook: https://centre4fantasy.com/Facebook

TikTok: https://centre4fantasy.com/tiktok

Fantasy Writing - Why Go Small?

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 14:10:00 -0000

Join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker as they discuss the issue of scale when writing fantasy. Starting small by thinking of smaller than average people at the heart of a story, follow us as we travel from Aristophanes “The Frogs” all the way to Barbie, with an in-depth discussion of the inner lives of hobbits. Does being small equate to being simple in Middle-earth? Does being big make you less intelligent in fantasy literature? What are the challenges, and potential, if you play with scale in your writing? Learn from the best examples in this discussion of the long history of short people!

Anna Waterworth - The Girl Who Grew Wings

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:50:00 -0000

Internationally acclaimed fantasy author, Anna Waterworth, pays a visit to the Mythmakers studio to talk about her latest book, The Girl who Grew Wings. She discusses with Julia Golding the origins of the novel and the retelling of ancient myths, particularly in her case the story of Icarus. How do you handle dark material when writing for younger audiences? What was the editing process like? Anna and Julia discuss the value of the reset – of going back to the beginning and starting again. Stick around to grow your own wings and to pick up some fantasy writing tips.

You can find out more about Anna and her books at https://www.annadaybooks.com

Why it is dangerous to study Tolkien?

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 14:10:30 -0000

It is a dangerous business going out of your front door, according to Bilbo - but so is studying Tolkien! On today’s episode, Julia Golding reports on current scholarship on Tolkien, thanks to the Tolkien's Words and Worlds conference at Corpus Christi College on the 2^nd and 3^rd of September of this year. What is the big mystery behind Tolkien's name? What is so special about the Fields of Cormallen? And who did C.S. Lewis dislike so much he spent a decade writing rude poems about him? Take a listen to fine out!

For more information on Tolkien’s life and his literature, check out the works of authors John Garth, Holly Ordway and Michael Ward.

An Evening with the Inklings - JRR Tolkien

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 13:50:00 -0000

Today’s episode of Mythmakers is the third part of our series looking into four of the main Inklings members. In the second part of our Inklings Evening, where our esteemed guests recreated the type of literary discussion that the original group would have engaged in, Colin Duriez takes us through Tolkien's participation in the group and how he, a veteran writer on books about Tolkien and Lewis, came to be an enthusiast. Join us as Colin reads from the Notion Club papers, leading to a discussion of how the Inklings interacted.

An Evening with the Inklings - Owen Barfield

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 14:05:00 -0000

Have you ever wished that you could be a fly on the wall at a meeting of the original Inklings? We certainly have! Last year we invited four experts to represent four of the main Inklings at a special evening at Merton College Oxford to recreate the kind of discussion the original group might have had. Today’s episode focuses on our first guest: Owen Barfield, standing in for his grandfather, the first and last Inkling also by the name Owen Barfield. Join us to hear about the first fantasy story that came out of the Inklings' group - The Silver Trumpet.

The Rings of Power v. The Lord of the Rings Musical

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 14:15:00 -0000

We interrupt our 4-part Inklings series to bring you our honest review of the Lord of the Rings musical on today’s Mythmakers episode!

Join us as Julia Golding reviews the revival of The Lord of the Rings musical at the Watermill Theatre and draws some comparisons with The Rings of Power series. What is the ideal approach to adaptations of Tolkien’s material? Is a smaller scale preferable to grandeur? Why did the musical originally fail when it was on at Drury Lane in 2007, but now has raving reviews in 2023? What lessons can the RoP team learn from this journey? Have a listen and find out!

To grab a ticket and experience the musical for yourself, visit https://www.watermill.org.uk

An Evening with the Inklings - Meet the Inklings Experts

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 14:30:00 -0000

Today’s episode of Mythmakers is part one of a four-part special deep dive into four of the legendary Inklings: J.R.R. Tolkien, represented by Colin Duriez, CS Lewis by Professor Simon Horobin, Owen Barfield by his grandson of the same name, and Charles Williams by Alicia Smith. These discussions took place at our Inklings evening at Merton College in Oxford, during our in-person course.

This first part is our introduction to these four significant Inklings as we speak to our esteemed guests who represent each of them.

For more information on our guests, visit their websites listed below:

Colin Duriez: colinduriez.webmate.me

Owen Barfield: owenbarfield.org

Tolkien's Faith - a Spiritual Biography

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:00:00 -0000

Professor Holly Ordway returns to Mythmakers on today’s episode to discuss her new book on Tolkien's Faith. Having been first an agnostic, then an atheist, and now a Catholic, Professor Ordway uses her insider/outsider perspective to elucidate this fascinating topic. Join in as Professor Ordway discusses with Julia Golding the many flavours of Catholicism and the particular, and unusual, one that Tolkien followed as part of the English Oratory movement. Take a listen to what this offers to everyone, Catholics and non-Catholics, and how it relates to his writing within Middle-earth.

To find out more about Professor Ordway’s book and to purchase a copy visit hollyordway.com .

Andy Serkis Reads The Silmarillion - The Verdict (Season 4 Premiere!)

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 14:06:01 -0000

Welcome to Mythmakers Season 4!!

Since April of 2022 Andy Serkis has been working his way through Tolkien's books, producing audio versions of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit- he has now turned his attention to The Silmarillion. Our expert on audiobooks, Andrew Head, who as a blind consumer often turns to audio versions to access stories, talks with Julia Golding about this latest version of The Silmarillion and the Martin Shaw reading that came before it. Which would you buy now? How does Andy cope with a book that has far less opportunities for a dramatic reading than the other Tolkien books? What more do you get from this version? Tune in to hear our verdict!

Mythmakers Season 3 Finale: The Tolkien Top 5

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:45:00 -0000

As Season 3 of the Mythmakers podcast draws to a close, we are commemorating this milestone by highlighting our top 5 Tolkien themed podcasts that we have produced over the seasons. From little known facts about professor J.R.R. Tolkien, and how we celebrate his memory 50 years on since his passing, to recent adaptations of his works and Andy Serkis’s now iconic audiobook reading of the Lord of the Rings- we have been highly anticipating his reading of The Silmarillion! Join us as we celebrate 3 wonderful seasons of Mythmakers, enjoy our discussions of Tolkien’s works and appreciate the fantasy genre that is so cherished by all of us.

Best and Worst Fathers in The Lord of the Rings

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 13:30:00 -0000

As we look forward to celebrating Father's Day, on today’s episode of Mythmakers we’ll take a look at the best and worst fathers in The Lord of the Rings. Do you agree with our picks for the three worst fathers? One is very controversial! The top four fathers jostle for their place, but one stands out as being a particularly great role model. Any idea who that is? Hint: it isn't Denethor.

Celebrating Fantasy Illustrators - John Tenniel

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 13:35:00 -0000

Let's celebrate the contribution to fantasy by our favourite illustrators! Today we start by taking a look at the grandfather of Oxford Fantasy Illustration: Sir John Tenniel, the illustrator behind the iconic Alice in Wonderland images. Listen in to find out about the unfortunate accident in his youth that he hid from his father, his extraordinary memory, and his artistic influences. Guess who was at his retirement dinner- it was quite the fantasy dinner party moment!

From Colours to Makeovers – Mythmakers Ask us Anything

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 14:05:00 -0000

If you have had a question for the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, you won’t want to miss this episode of Mythmakers! In this episode, Julia Golding answers the questions that we have received from our audience regarding her fantasy realm preferences, her favourite colour, as well as indulging the curiosity surrounding our exciting new project at number 5 Northmoor Road. Join us as we dive into the significant role of colour in fantasy, the reasons to celebrate Tolkien’s various characters throughout his works and to learn a little more about the house in Tolkien’s road.

Tolkien's Modern Reading with Holly Ordway

Fri, 26 May 2023 14:15:00 -0000

We are used to thinking of Tolkien being all about the past - old languages, old stories and no post-Shakespearean literature going into his cauldron of story-making. But of course that is wrong. Meet Dr Holly Ordway, whose fantastic book, Tolkien's Modern Reading, is a scholarly and entertaining exploration of the breadth of books in many genres that Tolkien was reading. From The Land of Snergs, to Swallows and Amazons, to Agatha Christie, he was catholic in his tastes, in the sense of universal. Follow our wide-ranging discussion from the books of Tolkien's youth, to those he read his children, and on to the adult novels he read and appreciates - as well as those he didn't like. Stick around to find out where we would set a boys' own adventure! Find out more about Holly here: https://www.wordonfire.org/tolkien/

The Hobbit Tea Party - Readathon Livestream

Thu, 18 May 2023 13:40:00 -0000

As our Readathon of The Hobbit drew to a close, we celebrated our journey to the Lonely Mountain and back again with a Hobbit Tea Party Livestream event! Julia Golding was joined by friend of the Centre, Jacob Rennaker, and participants of the Readathon as we discussed our favourite aspects of the book and tested our knowledge with a fun quiz. Listen in to learn our guests' unique points of view and to test out how well YOU know The Hobbit.

Behind the Scenes at the Oxford Centre for Fantasy – Part 2: Where Next?

Thu, 11 May 2023 14:00:00 -0000

What's our story? It’s time to get to know the Oxford Centre for Fantasy. Find out how we emerged from an effort to buy Tolkien's house, but ended up setting up a literary centre in honour of Tolkien and the Inklings, which does far more than we initially imagined. Find out more about our director, Julia Golding, and her team and stick around to hear where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to assemble a team.

Top Ten Fantasy Royals - Coronation Special

Thu, 04 May 2023 13:45:00 -0000

As King Charles III is crowned in the first coronation in most people's living memory, we take this opportunity to look at our top 10 fantasy royals. We trawl the world for the best examples - and even venture into outer space. Do you agree with our list? And what bone do we have to pick with Stephen Colbert? :) Have a listen and let us know if we've missed your favourite fantasy royal.

Behind the Scenes at the Oxford Centre for Fantasy – Part 1: How We Got Here

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:45:00 -0000

Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves - Our Verdict

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 14:05:00 -0000

It started with a board game in the 1970s and now has become a major motion picture. If you are thinking of watching Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves - or want to see if you agree with our verdict – take a listen to our multi-generational discussion about this family film, but be aware that there will be SPOILERS in our discussion. What was a hit, what a miss? Who were the standout characters? And tonally where does this live - Monty Python, Guardians of the Galaxy, or Galaxy Quest? We also discuss the trend of turning games and properties, such as toys or rides, into films. Which ones have been done well recently, and which have fallen short? Stick around to see if you agree with our pick for the best place in fantasy for a dungeon and our fantasy tips.

AI Revolution: What should writers and artists do? Part 2: Text

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 14:10:00 -0000

The tidal wave of AI art and AI generated text is upon us. What should writers and artists do about it? Author Julia Golding talks to Pete Williamson, an illustrator, to work out what is fair to creatives. Is there any way this can be stopped before it sweeps creatives away, or would that be like King Canute trying to stop the tide? If it is here to stay, what should the creatives be asking for in the way of copyright protection? In this two-part conversation we look at the pros and cons of these new capabilities. The first half is devoted to what human artists and writers do in the creative space, as well as the emergence of AI images and fair usage of them. The second part turns our attention to AI generated prose and poetry. Julia and Pete also consider the best place in all of fantasy in which to be an illustrator.

To see Pete's work, please go to: https://www.alicewilliamsliterary.co.uk/pete-williamson
For Julia's books visit: https://goldinggateway.com
To read the two articles that Julia and Pete mention visit https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-64285227 for the Getty Images case and for the Romance Writers' dilemma https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-64975524

AI Revolution: What should writers and artists do? Part 1: Images

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 14:05:00 -0000

Eggs! Cracking open Myths and Legends

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 13:30:00 -0000

Ever wondered why we have a bunny collecting eggs at Easter? In this seasonal podcast Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker take a crack at the long history of eggs in myths and legends, venturing from there into fantasy stories. Where can we find Humpty Dumpty, and what do Dorothy and Oz have to do with eggs? We find Tolkien and eggs scrambled together with the Kalevala and encounter plenty of other eggs within the world of Harry Potter. We also take a deep dive into the idea of the Easter bunny. What are the common themes between all of these mythical worlds and beings? And, of course, where is the best place in all the fantasy worlds to hatch from an egg?

Tolkien and Creativity: Creation as Jazz - Part 2

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:45:00 -0000

One of the most inspiring aspects of Tolkien's work is his thinking about creativity. Following a question from a listener, Jacob Rennaker and Julia Golding discuss this using the poem Mythopoeia, the short story Leaf by Niggle and the essay 'On Fairy Stories' - all must-reads for Tolkien fans and anyone interested in writing fantasy. How does free will fit in the world of a Creator - and what has jazz music got to do with it? What was wrong with Feanor? And what is the value of the things you make? Stay tuned for musings about the spin-off series about the Star Wars Cantina band and much more! For those who are interested, here's a link to the Benjamin Saxton article mentioned during the conversation - well worth a read! https://dc.swosu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1096&context=mythlore

Tolkien and Creativity: Creation as Jazz - Part 1

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 13:30:00 -0000

Katherine Livesey: Girls in Love

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 12:57:28 -0000

Katherine Livesey, writer of the Sisters of Shadow trilogy, got her first deal at 26. Hear about her steps to becoming an author and how her search for stories about female romantic love prompted her to write her own young adult fantasy. Katherine also recommends some other titles dealing with same sex relationships. We discuss the importance of real landscapes in fantasy worldbuilding – and then decide where it is best to be a lighthouse keeper, in honour of the central image in her first novel.

Jennifer Hayashi Danns: Adventures with Gender

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 14:23:34 -0000

Today we present you with something very different! Jennifer Hayashi Danns tells us about her journey to being an author and describes her innovative fantasy novel Beneath the Burning Wave. This book breaks new ground using neutral pronouns for the first half before evolving into a kind of 'fallen' split language, this gives Jennifer a chance to invent a pre-history for civilisation. As Jennifer is a black British writer, we discuss her experience of representation both on and off the page.

H.S. Norup: Do Faeries Need a Makeover?

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 09:42:34 -0000

H.S. Norup, author of Into the Faerie Hill, The Missing Barbegazi and The Hungry Ghost, uses her world travel to inspire her fantasy. In her latest book she is turning to the myths and legends of Europe and giving faeries something of a makeover. Dismiss any idea of cute creatures in gauzy skirts and prepare to meet a much more dangerous set of creatures in her Middle Grade adventure. In discussion with Julia Golding, Helle talks about her journey to being an author, her writing process, and how she steers towards lighthouses as she writes. Helle recommends Faeries by Alan Froud and Alan Lee (yes, he of LotR fame) as a good source book. Stick around for our tops fantasy tips and to find out where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a caver... A special thanks to Pushkin Press for putting us in touch with Helle, and for more information about her visit https://www.hsnorup.com

Lilly Inkwood and the Fantasy Spy Thriller

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:10:49 -0000

One of the things we love at Mythmakers is to meet new fantasy authors. Germany-based author, Lilly Inkwood, originally from Easter Europe and who writes in impeccable English, is about to launch the first of her fantasy trilogy with HarperCollins called ‘The Kingdom is a Golden Cage’ (coming out in the Summer). Hear how she takes inspiration from real history, as well as fairy tales, to produce a story which reads like a twisty spy thriller. You'll never look at Puss in Boots the same way again! Stick around for Lilly and Julia's top tips for fantasy writing.

The Problem with Orcs

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 15:52:11 -0000

We need to talk about...orcs. Where do they come from? Are they ruined elves, or something else? What is the history of Tolkien's own thoughts on the subject? Are they problematic, associated with a form of racism current in mid-20th century, or is CS Lewis' defence of Tolkien's shades of grey in his morality right? If you want to understand more about these key characters in Tolkien's world, or even put your own point of view across in (politely phrased) comments, have a listen to Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker as they do a deep dive into the dark underworld of orcs. Show Notes: Episode Tweet: Discover the origins of orcs in Tolkien's world and explore the complexity of orc characters in fantasy literature and film with this special episode of the podcast! #Orcs #Tolkien #Fantasy #Literature #Film #OxfordCenter Chapters: (0:50:29) - Discover Fantasy With Oxford Center (0:00:04) - Exploring the Origins of Orcs (0:17:30) - Orcs in Tolkien's Writing (0:30:09) - Exploring the Complexity of Orc Characters (0:44:55) - Exploring the Problem of Orcs Chapter Summaries: (0:50:29) - Discover Fantasy With Oxford Center (0 Minutes) This podcast episode is brought to you by the Oxford Center for Fantasy. Learn more about what they offer, including online courses and in-person stays in Oxford, plus their shop for great gifts. Tell a friend and subscribe to the podcast to keep up with all the latest content' (0:00:04) - Exploring the Origins of Orcs (17 Minutes) Myth Makers' examines the origins of the word 'orc' and explores the complexities of the creatures in Tolkien's world. Tolkien's earliest conceptions of orcs were that they were created from stone, granite, heat and slime. Later, Tolkien explored the idea that orcs were created by Melkor in mockery of the Elves and as a corruption of their existing life. The discussion also covered potential reproduction methods and lifespans of orcs. Finally, Tolkien's musings on the sentience of orcs were discussed. (0:17:30) - Orcs in Tolkien's Writing (13 Minutes) Lord of the Rings' provides an interesting look into the politics of the world of Octom, with its divisions between the Urokai and original flavor Orks, and the tension between them. It is important to consider CS Lewis' view of the story, which acknowledges the complexity of the characters, rather than viewing them in a black and white way. The danger of associating Orcs with real world contexts is that it can lead to the dehumanization of people, which is what the Nazis did. It is important to check what we are doing with Orcs, to ensure that this does not happen. (0:30:09) - Exploring the Complexity of Orc Characters (15 Minutes) Orcs' was discussed, looking at how they are portrayed in fantasy worlds and how they have been characterized in literature and film. The conversation touched on the racial and classist aspects of Tolkien's work, with orcs speaking in a 'working class commander's dialect'. In the Rings of Power version, there is a spoiled elf who stands up for the orcs and raises moral questions about the difference between orcs and elves. The discussion then moved to the Hobbit films and their structural problems, and the character Adar in the TV series. (0:44:55) - Exploring the Problem of Orcs (5 Minutes) This conversation focused on the topic of Orcs, with a discussion of their presence in Middle Earth and the old English Ork. The importance of rationing the number of villains in a world was highlighted, and a tip was given on how to write villains in a modern vein. The conversation concluded with a special tip from the speaker on how to appreciate the musical setting of the Lord of the Rings series, with a link to Bear McCreery's podcast series and accompanying English translations of Kuania and the Black Speech.

Tolkien 50 Years On

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 15:13:36 -0000

In September we will be commemorating 50 years since the death of Tolkien. In this episode Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker look at the changing fortunes of Tolkien's reputation from that decade through to the present. They look at academic assessment, the influence on books and the world of visual media, films, TV and games. Where next for our favourite professor? Be sure to visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/ for more fantasy themed fun!

Season 3 Premiere! - Rabbits in Fantasy

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0000

Welcome to the Mythmakers Season 3 premiere! Please share and tell a friend...we're so glad you're along for the journey! 22nd January ushers in the Year of the Rabbit. In this podcast, Julia and Jacob discuss rabbits in fantasy. Why are there more hares than rabbits? Who is the White Rabbit? Should you eat a rabbit in Narnia (if it doesn't talk)? We go from Beatrix Potter to Bugs Bunny - see if we missed any of your favourites. And find out which story we think is Rabbit Armageddon! Stick around for our top fantasy tips on what to watch or listen to. Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more fun, our shop, and our online courses!

Mythmakers Season 2 Finale - Seasonal Round-Up

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 13:18:13 -0000

As we approach the end of the year, we reach the end of Season 2 of our Mythmakers podcast. Today’s episode highlights this year’s most popular podcasts, hosted by Julia Golding and featuring our esteemed guests: A.J. Lancaster, T.A. White, Victoria Goddard, Lisa Edmonds and Kathrin Tordasi, as well as giving special mentions to many others who we were delighted to have on the show. Julia, and our various guest speakers, touched on a variety of topics from writing tips and processes to world-building and fantasy characters from all walks of life. Join us as we take a look back on an excellent year of podcasts.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information!

Bramble Fox - Prize-Winning German Fantasy Writer, Kathrin Tordasi, and Portal Fantasy

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Kathrin Tordasi is a prize-winning German writer whose first book for children, Bramble Fox, has just been translated into English by Cathrin Wirtz. Julia meets Kathrin to discuss everything from Welsh fairies, Shakespearian plays, Dark Lords, and the nature of evil! They go on to dig up some gems in the mines of German fantasy that we might have missed in English speaking world. And to help you with the German names, here is a list: Johann Wolfgang Goethe, Faust, E.T.A. Hoffmann, Der Sandmann, Ludwig Tieck, Der Runenberg

Kathrin's recommandaionts from the podcast:

Ottfried Preußler, Krabat & the Sorcerer's Mill

Christian Handel, Rowan & Ash

Andreas Suchanek, Die Flüsterwald Chroniken

Katja Brandis, Woodwalkers Series

Her social media handles are:

Homepage: https://kathrintordasi.de

Instagram: @kathrin.tordasi

Retelling Fairytales - A Lost Writer We Need To Rediscover - Madame D'Aulnoy

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 10:54:34 -0000

History has not remembered some fabulous women writers - even the woman who gave us the term 'fairy tale' to start with! Meet Madame D'Aulnoy and hear about her wonderful fairy tales and why author Claire O'Brien is retelling them now. Claire and Julia Golding broaden the conversation to discuss the power of fairy tales, how they have been selected and retold. Rediscovery of old ones without the familiar tropes is a wonderful place for a fantasy writer to go for inspiration. Do you have a favourite retelling - or a least favourite - on film or TV? See if you agree with Julia and Claire. Oh yes, and what exactly has Bridgerton got to do with it all...?

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/mythmakers

The Silmarillion Readathon Livestream Event

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 13:30:45 -0000

Julia Golding and Tolkien experts Jacob Rennaker and Paula Kalamaras hosted the second exclusive Readathon livestream event on completion of our latest Readathon, featuring The Silmarillion. Our participants tested their Tolkien knowledge in our quiz, we looked back at the past few weeks of our Readathon, and we announced our December Readathon topic! Watch now to find out what we'll be reading next.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/mythmakers

Must-read Fantasy Novels - A Christmas Carol

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 19:16:31 -0000

Sometimes fantasy stories define how we live our lives. Take Christmas. Dickens has been hugely responsible for our expectations of the season, not to mention the Christmas movie industry. Julia Golding takes a deep dive into the must-read fantasy ghost story, A Christmas Carol, and how Dickens designed and performed the story. She unpicks what makes it work. Have a listen and see if you agree. And finally, where do you think is the best place to be a miser in fantasy?

Surprised by Oxford - Academic and author Carolyn Weber on her book and biopic about her experience in the city

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 14:36:28 -0000

Who would you cast to play you in the movie of your life? Mostly that's a fun game, but for Carolyn Weber it became a reality. Many people who come to Oxford to study leave changed by the experience. Carolyn Weber tells Julia Golding about her time in the city and how it inspired her to write her book Surprised by Oxford, a nod to CS Lewis' book Surprised by Joy. Carolyn goes on to tell us about the film that has been made of the story in a fortuitous gap in COVID rules and last month received its premiere. Both having studied with small children, Julia and Carolyn end by deciding which fantasy world is best for parents.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information.

The Rings of Power Livestream

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:00:52 -0000

Listen to this past weekend's livestream hosted by Julia Golding and Tolkien experts Jacob Rennaker and Paula Kalamaras as they discuss the reaction to The Rings of Power series. We discussed various talking points and questions, including: What was the overall reaction to The Rings of Power? Was it worth watching/making? Did the creatives do a good job adapting the material they were given? And what do you think we'll see next season? Watch to see our reaction and review.

For more information visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

Best Of Mythmakers Replay: Oxford As A Fantasy Hotspot

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 14:22:15 -0000

Today we're re-releasing one of our most popular podcasts!

Why is Oxford, England, such a fantasy hotspot? From Lewis Carroll to Philip Pullman, Diana Wynne-Jones to Deborah Harkness, it has inspired writers and is even the location for many fantasy stories. It is famously home of the Inklings whose leading figures, Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, established two of the biggest fantasy worlds yet invented. So what's the secret? Is it the university with its exchange of ideas, the beautiful built environment and countryside, or a combination of factors that make it a place where fantasy seems possible? Step through the wardrobe to find out. Stay listening to find out the pick for the best library in a fantasy series. Let us know yours if you want to suggest another top fantasy destination for bookworms.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/mythmakers

Must-Read Fantasy Novels - Frankenstein

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 07:00:07 -0000

Who are our mythmakers in fantasy and sci-fi? In a new thread to this podcast, Julia Golding highlights her 'must-read' picks from the fantasy greats. Find out the reasons why you should try Frankenstein (1818) - the novel rather than any of the spin-off films you might've seen. Hear about the structure, the ideas, the state of science in the 1810s, the politics of rights - and so much more that have a really modern relevance. Let us know your picks for fantasy must-reads. Julia ends with choosing the best place to be a scientist in all fantasy worlds - see if you agree!

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Rings of Power - Halfway Point Check In

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0000

What's wrong and right so far in the Rings of Power? Are you enjoying the new series? Julia Golding checks in at halfway to discuss what's going on in the programme. What's annoying Tolkien purists? What shout-outs and praise can we give? Setting aside whether or not it sticks to Tolkien, how does it do as a piece of writing? Find out what's going on in the costume department - shoulders and skirts are an issue! Have a listen, see if you agree, and let us know your views. We end with where's the best place to be a weaver.

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Everything You Need To Know About The Silmarillion But Were Too Afraid To Ask (Part 2)

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

In Part Two, Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker tackle the Second and Third Age, linking it to The Lord of the Rings and The Rings of Power. Jacob also recommends these web resources for readers wanting an even deeper dive. https://tolkienprofessor.com/lectures/courses/silmarillion-seminar/ https://theprancingponypodcast.com/category/podcast-episodes/the-silmarillion/

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Everything You Need To Know About The Silmarillion But Were Too Afraid To Ask

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

This autumn/fall we are going to tackle The Silmarillion in our next readathon (visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for info!). Many readers who come to it from The Lord of the Rings find it a daunting book to get through. Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker take you through what you can find in The Silmarillion, signposting those parts which link to the stories you might be following, such as LotR and The Rings of Power. They suggest which parts might appeal most to a first-time reader and give tips on how to read it. In part one they discuss creation and the First Age.

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

The Spell Tailors: A Magical Book Launch with Elizabeth Clark and James Nicol

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 10:18:03 -0000

Come to our book launch celebration for James Nicol The Spell Tailors https://jamesnicolbooks.com A fun part of our online courses is that you get to be friends with fantasy writers who are publishing in today's market. We celebrate the arrival of the next book from one of our tutors - James Nicol. Listen to how he was inspired by the secret content of biscuit boxes and developed an original line of magic as a result. You can also hear his journey to being a writer and his process. Where in all the fantasy worlds do you think is the best place to be a tailor?

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

First Reactions To The Rings Of Power (Amazon Prime)

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Join us for our first reactions to the Amazon Prime The Rings of Power series. It's useful to orientate ourselves at the start of a series so Julia Golding takes us through what the four ages of Tolkien and where the Second Age fits. She then outlines the headline differences between the Tolkien material and how they've adapted it - suited to a general listener. Next, we go on to our discussion under three main headings of story, performance and creative realisation. Stay tuned for our rating. And to neatly sum up, we conclude that the dwarves are Scottish, the hobbits Irish, the elves Welsh, the Men English, and the money...American. If you want to join one of our Inklings groups, please check out our courses at https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org - Next online course starts in October.

Rings of Power - The Story Perspective (Amazon Prime)

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0000

We will know very soon what choices the showrunners for the upcoming Amazon series Rings of Power have taken but let's look at what we can glean about the story choices already. How do you cope with such a big gap in the timeline? Do you know your Celebrimbors from your Ar Pharazons - and what has Sauron got to do with it all? What about the featured characters - how do they relate to the original material? Julia Golding looks at the story patterns and the character arcs and makes some predictions. Find out if you agree - and if she gets it right!

The Welsh Episode with Claire Fayers - Part 2

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:48:37 -0000

What are the myths and legends of the place where you live? Julia Golding meets Claire Fayers, author and reteller of Welsh myths and legends, also a tutor on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy Novel-in-a-Year course. Claire tells us about dragons and tappers in mines, as well as the stories that grow up about local landmarks. It is a process that can be seen even within a generation. Where does the dragon on the Welsh flag come from? Are Welsh dragons nasty or nice? Claire talks about using local stories to inspire new writing, making sequels. We also hear about Claire's journey to being a writer and tips on entering competitions for that first contract. To conclude, Claire and Julia discuss the best place in fantasy to be a miner. Where would you pick? You can find out more about Claire's books here http://clairefayers.com

The Welsh Episode with Claire Fayers - Part 1

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0000

What about the stone-giants? A user's guide to the giantic in Tolkien and elsewhere - Part 2

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 14:31:40 -0000

Responding to a listener's question about stone-giants in The Hobbit and more generally, Julia Golding, and friend of the OCF, Jacob Rennaker take a deep dive into all things gigantic. Did you know that ent originally meant 'giant'? Is there something about elemental giants going on in Middle Earth? Taking in Greek, Norse and Celtic traditions, as well as folklore, fairytale and fiction, we wander far and wide in the land of the giants. CS Lewis and Charles Williams take a different approach and we get to discuss these in-depth, waking Father Time to end the world. Last we have a look at our favourite contemporary versions of giants, ranging from transformers, Harry Potter, Marvel and DC, with a nod to Roal Dahl. It is a gigantic subject so will come in two parts!

What about the stone-giants? A user's guide to the giantic in Tolkien and elsewhere - Part 1

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 18:41:59 -0000

A Publisher's Perspective: the Pushkin Press and Fantasy in Translation Part 2 of 2 - Guest Daniel Seton

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Part 2 of 2. Fantasy has been dominated by English language books - from LotR to Game of Thrones, you could be forgiven to thinking fantasy was some medieval other place in northern Europe. In this episode of Mythmakers Julia Golding talks to Daniel Seton, commissioning editor at the very interesting publishing house, Pushkin Press, winner of the Independent Publisher of the Year 2022 in the UK, who have a remit to bring the best books from other languages into English. This includes a lot of fantasy, particularly for children, making classics from countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, Finland, and Japan accessible for new audiences. What are the best books Daniel has read from other countries - we get lots of recommendations so bring a pencil! Can you discern different dominant flavours from different origins? We also meet mermaids and gorillas - so there is something for everyone! If you want to find out more about Pushkin Press, you can visit https://pushkinpress.com

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

A Publisher's Perspective: the Pushkin Press and Fantasy in Translation Part 1 of 2 - Guest Daniel Seton

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 10:29:06 -0000

Part 1 of 2. Fantasy has been dominated by English language books - from LotR to Game of Thrones, you could be forgiven to thinking fantasy was some medieval other place in northern Europe. In this episode of Mythmakers Julia Golding talks to Daniel Seton, commissioning editor at the very interesting publishing house, Pushkin Press, winner of the Independent Publisher of the Year 2022 in the UK, who have a remit to bring the best books from other languages into English. This includes a lot of fantasy, particularly for children, making classics from countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, Finland, and Japan accessible for new audiences. What are the best books Daniel has read from other countries - we get lots of recommendations so bring a pencil! Can you discern different dominant flavours from different origins? We also meet mermaids and gorillas - so there is something for everyone! If you want to find out more about Pushkin Press, you can visit https://pushkinpress.com

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Alice Worth Series and Writing Urban Fantasy - Part 2 of 2

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 14:40:12 -0000

Ever wondered how to turn your college education into a best-selling series? Lisa Edmonds, once an English major who took courses in forensic criminology, has done just that, writing the wonderful Alice Worth Series. An Urban fantasy series with a mage PI, Alice moves in a world of magic, vampires and werewolves with her ghost sidekick Malcolm. Julia Golding Lisa discuss the path to publication, the advice Lisa has on world-building, character development, and plotting. Lisa also has some top tips on how to approach a publisher once you're manuscript is finished. You can visit Lisa's website here to find out more https://www.lisaedmonds.com

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Alice Worth Series and Writing Urban Fantasy - Part 1

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 10:37:10 -0000

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Stargazy Pies And Imperial Stories - Part 2

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 12:14:42 -0000

Part 2 - How can you find an original voice in fantasy? Discount code available. You wait for a listener to the podcast to suggest one to you, of course! Julia Golding is in conversation today with Victoria Goddard, a Canadian author who has imagined a big world of Astandalas and Zunidh and gone on to set different connected series in it. Each series has its own genre flavour. Victoria was influenced by the Inklings and Dorothy L Sayers and speaks about how they encouraged certain aspects of her writing. Julia and Victoria discuss Hands of the Emperor and the fabulous character of Cliopher (Kit) who is an unconventional hero in fantasy - a government bureaucrat making fiery change from within the system. That doesn't do justice to this book - it has so much heart. In honour of Stargazy pie, they conclude by picking which fantasy worlds have the best use of signature dishes. Victoria has kindly offered a discount for her books. Please go to https://www.victoriagoddard.ca/discount/OXFORD20 - the one-off code of 20% is OXFORD20

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Stargazy Pies And Imperial Stories - Part 1

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 19:52:56 -0000

How can you find an original voice in fantasy? Discount code available. You wait for a listener to the podcast to suggest one to you, of course! Julia Golding is in conversation today with Victoria Goddard, a Canadian author who has imagined a big world of Astandalas and Zunidh and gone on to set different connected series in it. Each series has its own genre flavour. Victoria was influenced by the Inklings and Dorothy L Sayers and speaks about how they encouraged certain aspects of her writing. Julia and Victoria discuss Hands of the Emperor and the fabulous character of Cliopher (Kit) who is an unconventional hero in fantasy - a government bureaucrat making fiery change from within the system. That doesn't do justice to this book - it has so much heart. In honour of Stargazy pie, they conclude by picking which fantasy worlds have the best use of signature dishes. Victoria has kindly offered a discount for her books. Please go to https://www.victoriagoddard.ca/discount/OXFORD20 - the one-off code of 20% is OXFORD20

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Space Opera and Fantasy from Down Under

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 11:31:28 -0000

In today's podcast, Julia Golding is in conversation with Australian writer, Michelle Diener https://www.michellediener.com. Michelle tells her story of starting out as a historical novelist and now writing sci-fi and fantasy. They discuss her early influences and get some book recommendations and then go on to debate the place of music in our culture and the threat posed by AI. Michelle has some great tips for worldbuilding and other craft tips. Finally, they debate where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a sentient droid. The answers should please some big fandoms!

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

From Fairly Odd-Parents To The Garden: A Life In Animation With Butch Hartman

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0000

What are the secrets of success as an animator? In this podcast, Julia Golding talks to Butch Hartman, best known for his series The Fairly Odd-Parents and Danny Phantom. We hear how he got into animation from sketching in the classroom to college and then into the industry. How does the creative process happen when working with other animators, voice actors, and studio executives? What changes have new technologies brought to cartoons? What ingredients are needed for successful character creation? Butch ends by telling us about his new cartoon The Garden and the live-action Fairly Odd Parents now on Paramount Plus. And finally, Julia and Butch debate where in all the fantasy worlds is it best to be a fairy godmother figure (bringer of magical gifts)!

Follow Butch on Facebook, Insta and TikTok! https://www.instagram.com/butchhartman https://www.tiktok.com/butchhartman https://www.facebook.com/realhartman

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Bonus Podcast: Top Ten Fantasy Royals

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 07:58:52 -0000

As we celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's platinum Jubilee, we are wondering who are your favourite fantasy royals? Author and Director of OCF, Julia Golding, has had a go at picking her top ten favourites. See if you agree with her. Is there anyone who should have made the list and been left out? And which is your favourite Middle-earth royal?

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

King Arthur and the Tolkien Lecture

Mon, 30 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Joining Julia Golding in this episode is Dr. Gabriel Schenk, an expert on Tolkien, fantasy writing, and Arthurian legends. Gabriel co-founded the annual Tolkien Lecture at Pembroke College Oxford (one of the colleges associated with the writer). You can see this year's lecture with acclaimed fantasy author Rebecca F Kuang as well as previous ones at https://tolkienlecture.org They go on to take a deep dive into the long story of Arthurian literature. Did he exist? Why was he so popular in the later medieval period? Where is the Shakespearian play on this theme as it seems a big gap in the bard's output? Who are the main writers who picked up the baton in the 19th and 20th centuries? In fact, this podcast provides you with a succinct summary of what you need to know to navigate Arthurian stories, ending up at the top tips for which series you might like to watch on TV. Gabriel and Julia end by choosing their favourite enchanted swords from the fantasy armoury. Do you agree with their picks and what would yours be?

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Bonus Podcast: Readathon Live Event!

Sat, 28 May 2022 11:52:35 -0000

As our Fellowship of the Read Readathon drew to a close, we invited all who participated to an event of special magnificence. We tested their Lord of the Rings book knowledge with some questions that stumped even the most hardcore fans and engaged in a lively conversation with some of the Readathon "Gandalf for a day" guides about the experience. Listen along and see how many of these 50 Lord of the Rings questions you would have gotten right.

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Top Five Fantasy Books - Audio Version With Guest Andrew Head

Mon, 23 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

There has been a flourishing of audio versions of books. In today's episode, Julia Golding talks to Andrew Head, a creative writer and fantasy fan from Australia. Andrew is blind so accesses many of his stories through the audio version so is something of an expert on the subject. Listen for his top five and see if you agree! Jim Dale or Stephen Fry? Which version of the Narnia Chronicles? And much more!

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

From Dragon-ridden To Firebird Chronicles: The Wonderful Worlds Of TA White

Mon, 16 May 2022 09:46:54 -0000

It's not often you get to interview one of your heroes but Julia Golding today is in conversation with one of hers. Meet T A White, American writer of some wonderful series that cross the fantasy genres. Listen to her journey into writing, including an unusual background that gives her insight into authority and combat. Tobey explains her writing process, gives tips on creating strong characters and how to handle a slow-burn romance. In conclusion, Tobey and Julia pick the best fantasy world for maps. It's a must listen to aspiring writers and listeners wanting to find their next favourite series. http://www.tawhiteauthor.com/home.html

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Lord of Stariel: An Independent Route To Publishing

Mon, 09 May 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Julia Golding talks to New Zealand independent fantasy writer, AJ Lancaster, whose four-book Stariel series is cutting through the competition with her unique vision of a half-fay half-human land. They discuss New Zealand as Middle-earth and AJ's relationship with Tolkien's fantasy, before coming to Oxford to where Stariel began. Other topics covered include using historical settings, research, non-binary characters and social mores. AJ then gives a fascinating account of her path to making a success of independent publishing and the importance of professionalism. There's another story to how she got an audio version that is also of interest to writers wanting to branch into audiobooks! To find out more about AJ please visit https://ajlancaster.com

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Fantastic Beast: Secrets of Dumbledore Film Review

Tue, 03 May 2022 07:00:00 -0000

We've not yet talked about the biggest fantasy series of the last twenty years and now Mythmakers takes a look at Harry Potter and the Wizarding World through a review of the latest film in the Fantastic Beasts franchise - the Secrets of Dumbledore. Have a listen to find out what Julia Golding thinks is right (and wrong) about this series, then join her as we go back to look at the Harry Potter phenomenon in the early 2000s and hear her verdict on the strengths of the first eight films. Do you agree? Let us know your thoughts and also if you agree with her pick for the best fantasy world in which to be a fantastic beast!

Visit http://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for great gift items, event information, and sign up for our newsletter for super surprises!

Did Peter Jackson Get It Right? - The Return of the King Movie Reconsidered

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Where would you rate The Return of the King in the trilogy? Join Julia Golding and Jacob Rennaker as they take a deep dive into the script and movie-making choices of the adaptation of the concluding part of The Lord of the Rings. What are your perfect moments - and your fails? Julia and Jacob disagree over one big scene - whose side are you on? Where are the opportunities for future filmmakers if they want to put their own stamp on the material? To conclude we pick our best fantasy world to be a king. For more information and a chance to get a limited-edition Mythmakers Podcast mug, visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

The Dog Episode - with SQuire and Louise DuArt Rushnell

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Mythmakers is devoting this episode to humanity's best friend: dogs! Julia Golding is joined by filmmakers SQuire and Louise DuArt Rushnell to talk about their latest project, Rescued by Ruby, due to be released on Netflix on March 17th. Ruby has the distinction of being a real dog with a real-life story to tell but before we get to her, we do a survey of fantasy dogs in film and TV. SQuire reveals his big part in the best of all cartoon dogs (Scooby-Doo!). We talk about how dogs are used in fiction to comment on or reflect upon human society. We hear the story of the real Ruby and her amazing canine actor, who has his own story to tell. What are the problems and responsibilities of working with trained animals on screen? And are there any training tips for dog owners? (Julia's asking for a friend, you understand - a four-footed one.) And of course, we end with deciding where is the best place to be a dog. Watch Rescued By Ruby today on Netflix by visiting https://Netflix.com/RescuedByRuby

Did Peter Jackson get it right? - The Two Towers movie reconsidered - with Jacob Rennaker

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0000

For more information and a chance to get a limited edition Mythmakers mug, visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

Did Peter Jackson Get It Right? - The Fellowship of the Ring Movie Reconsidered

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 11:17:23 -0000

20 years on someone somewhere will surely be considering having another go at The Lord of the Rings on film. In this episode Julia Golding is joined by academic and Tolkien fan Jacob Rennaker to look back at the Peter Jackson adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ring, considering the script choices and casting, the cuts and the visual realisation. What were the moments that could not be bettered, and where is the room for a new creative to have another go? Have a listen and see if you agree!

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information!

The Oddest Inkling - Charles William... with Sørina Higgins

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 12:24:42 -0000

The oddest Inkling - that's Charles Williams, poet, playwright, novelist, editor, theologian, and occult practitioner. If you think the Inklings are summed up by Oxford dons, Lewis and Tolkien, think again, because Williams added an extraordinary influence to the group. Today Julia Golding is joined by a world expert on Charles William, Dr. Sørina Higgins, who has edited a modern edition of Williams Arthurian cycle of poems and is working on his connections to other writers of the period. This episode is everything you needed to know about Williams and was too afraid to ask! Did he influence Tolkien and Lewis and in what way? What's it like to read his poetry? We gallop through his many genres so you get a sense of what there is to read - there's a lot! And to conclude we take a bow towards Arthur and decide where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a knight.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information!

A Magical Blend: Writing Historical Fantasies...with Lucy Strange

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 12:00:50 -0000

The past is another country, but what happens when you make it a magical one? In today's episode, Julia Golding is in conversation with British children's author, Lucy Strange, author of The Secret of Nightingale Wood, and other titles that blend historical fiction with fantasy. Lucy talks about her journey to being a writer, through acting and then teaching. She discusses how what might start as an escape into fiction can also be used to think about contemporary issues in unexpected ways. Lucy and Julia recommend and touch on some of the best historical fantasy novels they have read, particularly the ones which established their own subgenres in the field. As a special treat, Lucy reads a story within her bigger story of Sisters of the Lost Marsh before they go on to discuss where in all fantasy is the best place to be a merperson. https://www.lucystrange.org. You can find Lucy's books sold by independent bookstores on https://uk.bookshop.org/lists/lucy-strange-children-s-books.

The problem With Witches...With James Nicol

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0000

In today's podcast Julia Golding is in conversation with James Nicol, author of The Apprentice Witch series (Chickenhouse) and one of our tutors on the creative writing courses. What are your favourite witches in fairy tales and in novels? See if you agree with James' and Julia's picks. They go on to discuss the problem of the history of witches in our world, how women labelled as witches were marginalised, persecuted and sometimes killed. What should you do with that real-world inheritance when writing in your own fantasy world? Find out James' solution. They discuss the issue of black magic and evil. Some readers won't touch books with witches in, seeing them in this bracket. However, fantasy witches come from many more backgrounds. James and Julia discuss the rare occasions of getting banned from some shelves for tackling this subject. To conclude, they decide in which fantasy world it is best to be a witch.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information on today's podcast. For a full transcript, visit https://podcast.oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

Bingo, Odo and Frodo: Tolkien, Lewis And The Discovery Writer

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 10:29:02 -0000

Who are Bingo, Odod and Frodo? We'll give you a clue when we say that when Tolkien first started work on The Lord of the Rings he had a very different idea about his story and where it might be going! In this episode, Julia Golding considers how the writing process happens. Did Tolkien have a carefully tended allotment, or was he slashing a path through the wild? Was Lewis driven only by pictures that became stories, or did he have a greater plan? Julia also draws on her own experience as a fantasy writer to consider how planning and spontaneity combine when writing. And at the end, we choose where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a shapeshifter. Watch out for the werewolves!

For more information please visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power Title Reveal

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 12:43:13 -0000

Following the trailer reveal for the Amazon Prime TV series title - Rings of Power - Julia Golding and Paula Kalamaras discuss what we've learned about the direction in which they are taking the series. We now also have a date for the first season and release dates for subsequent episodes. Which well-known characters are likely to return? Who is Celebrimbor? Did you know elves had secret societies? Was it a good idea to give the young Galadriel the voice-over (if it is her)? How does the story of the forging of the ring intersect with the story of Numenor? What are the challenges faced by the scriptwriters? These and many other questions are discussed. Let us know your theories in the comments.

Review of The Nature of Middle-earth by JRR Tolkien ed. Carl F. Hostetter

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 12:43:40 -0000

In 2021 Harper Collins published The Nature of Middle-earth by JRR Tolkien, edited by Carl F Hostetter - a fascinating collection of Tolkien's working materials. In this episode Julia Golding reviews the book, looking under the bonnet/hood of Tolkien's creativity. Is this worth reading if you are a Tolkien fan? Listen to find out. Particular highlights are the connection between free will and creativity, what to do with flaws of imperfections in your work, and Hostetter's appendix on Tolkien philosophical and religious themes. And finally, Julia picks the fantasy world with the best rivers. Where would yours be located?

Spiderman No Way Home - a review of all things Spidey!

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 14:29:14 -0000

Spiderman No Way home ended the year with over $1 billion at the box office and has joined the top ten highest-grossing films. In this episode (contains spoilers), Julia Golding is joined by Ed, our resident Marvel fan at the centre, to discuss all things Spidey. Where did Spiderman the film come from? We go back in time to look at the Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield films, discussing what went wrong with the Amazing Spiderman series. They then look at the Tom Holland trilogy and discuss the themes, role of women characters, and debate the success (or not) of the multiple villains. Which is the best Spiderman film of them all? Find out if you agree with Julia and Ed. And in conclusion, they decide where is the best fantasy world for Spiderman to go if not New York.

From Sir Gawain to COVID: A Composer's view of storytelling and fantasy

Fri, 31 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0000

In today's podcast, Julia Golding is joined by internationally renown composer, Richard Blackford. Starting with his early community opera of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, to working with Maya Angelou on a piece for the inauguration of President Clinton, and more recently writing a piece based on a survivor's COVID diary, Richard is a man of incredible creativity. Join Julia and Richard as they discuss how composers use music to tell stories and how he collaborates with directors to provide the soul of a film in the score. In what way is fantasy defined in musical composition? Listen to find out! And stay tuned for the end when Richard and Julia pick the best place to be a composer.

William Morris - the incredible life of the man who influenced the Inklings

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 11:02:54 -0000

'This is the Great story of the North, which should be to all our race what the Tale of Troy was to the Greeks.' This isn't a quote from Tolkien about what he hopes to do with his legendarium but his fantasy writing predecessor William Morris, writing about the Saga of the Volsungs. The Mythmakers podcast is delighted to welcome special guest, Dr. Ingrid Hanson, lecturer in English Literature at the University of Manchester. Learn about this towering genius who revolutionised the world of design, literature, politics, and much more! He also pioneered interest in the legends of the north with his translations and travel writing on two trips to Iceland. If you want to understand what made the Inklings possible, William Morris is a very good place to start. To conclude Ingrid and Julia where is the best place in fantasy to be a craftsperson.

Tolkien And The Nature Of Good And Evil

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0000

Tolkien is a rich inspiration for so many of us so when Julia Golding found that one of the online fantasy course students, Stanley Hanna, had taught a seminar series on him for the Ottawa School of Theology and Spirituality, she thought he would make a great guest for the podcast. Join Stanley, a semi-retired Presbyterian minister from Quebec, and Julia as they discuss the nature of good and evil in Tolkien's Middle-earth, the role of temptation in his works and that of C.S. Lewis, stopping by with a final thought about where in all the fantasy worlds it is good (and bad) to be a religious leader.

For more information visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org

LIVE STREAM Replay: Always Winter and Never Christmas?

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 19:22:44 -0000

Join the Oxford Centre for Fantasy's holiday season livestream on December 1st at 1pm ET | 6pm GMT with special guests, poet and Tolkien expert, Malcolm Guite, and Kath Langrish (From Spare Oom to Wardrobe: Travels in Narnia with my 9-year-old self). We'll be starting Advent with C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, diving into their books to join in the Christmas spirit. We'll gallop like Rudolph across many topics, including: 'What is Father Christmas doing in Narnia?' 'Why does Middle-earth not appear to celebrate a midwinter festival?' 'Which is the most Christmasy of the other Narnia stories? 'Where do we go to celebrate Christmas with Tolkien?' From The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to The Father Christmas Letters, we will be celebrating the season in the best company and talking about how these writers have inspired our own writing.

For more information on Malcolm's books and the recordings of his reading: https://malcolmguite.wordpress.com

Interested in From Spare Oom to Wardrobe or Dark Angels? See: https://www.katherinelangrish.co.uk

For an Oxford-based Christmas murder mystery, look at Red House, Julia Golding writing as Joss Stirling on https://goldinggateway.com.

Other key books mentioned: John Masefield The Box of Delights Lucy M Boston The Children of Green Knowe

The Oxford Story Museum

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Oxford is a story hotspot so it is wonderful that there is a Story Museum in the city. Julia Golding is joined in this week's episode by the director of the museum, Caroline Jones, to hear the tale of how the museum came to be. From medieval monks in the basement to telephonists in the halls, the space has had an eventful history. Caroline takes you on an imaginary tour and we call in on Narnia and His Dark Materials in the exhibition space, ending up in the cafe. Caroline also talks about making the story museum reflect the diverse populations of the city through oral storytelling, as well as featuring new writers as they come along. To conclude, Caroline and Julia pick their favorite fantasy museum. If you'd like to find out more visit https://www.storymuseum.org.uk

Where Can You Find A Real Warg? Elfdalian and Tolkien's Languages

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Today Julia is joined by Nariel, a representative of the minority language community of Elfdalian. Nariel, who recently completed our Online Fantasy Course, has put all of us right about some misconceptions about Nordic culture so we invited her to share her story on the podcast. In early 2021 the European Council declared Elfdalian a minority language that should be protected and urged Sweden to do the same, but Sweden has so far been silent on the topic. It is older than English! Have a listen and find out about the origin of wargs and Gandalf. And just who really is a Viking? What fake symbols have seeped into Western culture to represent Vikings? Don't pass up this chance to listen to a lady who writes her shopping list in runes because it is quicker! We love Nariel's insight into the worlds that inspired Tolkien and hope you do too. If you want to find out more, you can visit http://www.ulumdalska.se/

Beyond Andy Serkis - Other Audiobook Versions of Tolkien's Works

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0000

What else is there to listen to beyond Andy Serkis' reading of The Lord of the Rings? Julia Golding takes us on a tour of the main audiobooks of Tolkien's works, first of all calling in on The Hobbit and then going to the Unfinished Tales and other works. Where can you find Saruman (aka Christopher Lee) as your reader? Or Sir Derek Jacobi? Did you know Brian Blessed, your favourite 'shouty' actor (Gordon's alive!), also took a role. The BBC Radiophonic Workshop, famous for the Doctor Who theme, also gets involved. Hats off to the father and son duo, Timothy and Sam West, for their reading of the works edited by Christopher Tolkien, making a really enjoyable listening experience. And who comes away with the prize for the best audiobook? Well, Julia admits to a childhood crush on the actor so listen to find out! You will also find out where in all the fantasy worlds is the best place to be a singer.

On Re-reading The Lord of the Rings

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:04:39 -0000

Are you a re-reader of your favourite fantasy books? Join Julia Golding as she recalls the first time through the wardrobe and into Middle-earth. This leads to thoughts on the power of fantasy and why some dislike it. She goes on to look at Margaret Atwood, Terry Pratchett, and others as they defend the genre. Next is a deep-dive into why LotR in particular works as a book to return to again and again, then take a little side journey with the Equal Opportunities Commission... She ends by deciding where is the best place in fantasy to be a woman.

Tolkien and Transcendent Beauty - A Theologian’s Perspective

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 16:58:34 -0000

In today’s episode, Julia Golding is joined by Lisa Coutras, author of Tolkien’s Theology of Beauty: Majesty, Splendor, and Transcendence in Middle-earth. Lisa is a theologian with an interest in beauty as it appears in the works of Tolkien. We discuss how this quality underpins his world, a reflection of the values of his Catholic faith but written so as to be accessible to all as it is not narrowly allegorical or theological. For Tolkien, true beauty was the radiance of God’s glory so we discuss where this is seen in The Silmarillion, and in the Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Lisa explains how the first is from the elven perspective where the gods are much more present, whereas the last two are from the Hobbit’s eye view and Providence is less obvious but still infused in the world. At the end, in Lisa’s honour, we ask, where in what fantasy world is the best place for transcendent beauty?

Fantasy Subcultures - from Dungeons & Dragons to LARPing - find out more from an expert

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Ever wondered about the link between fantasy writers like Tolkien and the multitude of subcultures they inspired, from Dungeons and Dragons to LARPing, and video gaming. In this episode, we discuss these worlds with special guest Ethan Gilsdorf, author of Fantasy Freaks and Gaming Geeks. We discuss Ethan’s quest to rediscover the world that enchanted his teenage self before such things became ‘cool’. He explains exactly what D&D is and how the game sits alongside fantasy fiction both influenced and influencing. We discuss his visits to LARP (Live Action Role Play) camps and conventions, and the limitations and possibilities of video games. We dig into some of the possible negatives and positives of a role-playing habit and what it might have to teach people IRL (in real life). And finally, we pick where is the best fantasy world to be a geek. There’s a surprise revelation as to who is the Shire’s geek so stick around for that!

A Life In Film Making - The Star Wars Episode!

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0000

What was it like to be behind the scenes as the very first Star Wars films were made? What was it like to be in the room to hear John Williams' soundtrack for the first time? What were the differences working with George Lucas and James Cameron (Avatar)? And what Starwars memorabilia has our special guest got saved up for his retirement - and on which planet will that be? In this special edition of Mythmakers with a friend of the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, Joe Gallagher, we discuss the last half-century of filmmaking, with a focus on fantasy films. Joe, who held senior positions at ILM (George Lucas' special effects workshop), Fox studios and also worked for Universal, was there for many of the major films from Starwars to Avatar via Alien. We discuss the role of creatives in the industry, the evolution of special effects, and whether anything is now unfilmable. Watch out for his tips as to what studios are looking for in a script and his advice for those wishing to break into the industry.

Starwars #Wookie #Alien #Avatar

Mythmakers Go To War

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 09:44:48 -0000

Do you not know who Prince Imrahil is? Or Erkenbrand? Then you've seen the film but not read the book. In this episode, we talk about why you really must go back to the book to get the war. Do you have views on what has been left out by the film adaptation of LotR? Starting with the fine details left out of the Peter Jackson movies, we visit our favourite missing characters - Erkenbrand, the Grey Company, Beregond and Bergil, Prince Imrahil. Tolkien deserves to be taken seriously as a war writer so we compared him with previous war writers, ranging from Tolstoy, Thackeray to Shakespeare, then put him alongside his contemporaries, C.S. Lewis, Charles Williams, the war poets, Cecil Lewis, etc. plus a visit to a modern writer, Tamora Pierce who remembers the human cost in the shape of displaced people and refugees. Also mentioned or quoted are John Garth, Tolkien and the Great War, and Joseph Loconte, A Hobbit, a Wardrobe, and a Great War.

Andy Serkis Audio book of The Lord of the Rings - Our Verdict

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Big news for Tolkien fans is Andy Serkis has just released with Harper Collins and on Audible an unabridged version of The Lord of the Rings. In this episode, Juia Golding reviews the recording, comparing it to the BBC dramatised version (1981) and the Robert Inglis reading (1990). Which has the best songs? Who dares to dip into the appendices? Is there a rival to Andy's Gollum? Julia concludes with recommendations as to which might suit you and your listening needs.

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/ for more information and resources.

Recent Big Fantasy Dramas - From The Witcher To The New Amazon Tolkien Series

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Julia Golding is joined by Ed Saunders, fantasy enthusiast, to discuss the recent big fantasy adaptations. What did The Witcher get right in its first series, what did The Mandalorian excel at, and where did Game of Thrones go wrong with the last season's story arc after a strong start. Is having a lockdown secret script a problem for creatives when it comes to testing story instincts? How are the writers going to climb the Everest that is the Amazon Prime Tolkien series? (Good luck guys!) In the final section, we pick our favourite bar or tavern in a fantasy universe.

The Second Age - Amazon Series Livestream (Podcast Replay)

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 19:30:00 -0000

Excited for the Tolkien TV series made by Amazon Prime? Content remains secret but we know that it is to be set in the Second Age, the time of the forging of the Rings of Power and Numenor. In the first livestream from the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, we take a look at the possibilities, offering a one-stop guide to what you might want to know. Join writers, Julia Golding and Paula Kalamaras, and filmmaker, Tai Truesdell, as they discuss what sources the programme makers can draw on, the main storylines, and what options are available to the screenwriters. The big question they attempt to answer is ‘what would a writer make of this material and what problems will they face?

Inspired by the idea of writing a series like this? We'd love to see you join in one of our writing courses. You can find out more and sign up today here. You can find out more and sign up today here: http://go.projectnorthmoor.org/onlinecourse The next course begins on 5th October.

Comic Book City

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 11:00:00 -0000

One of the biggest fantasy worlds of modern times is the Marvel universe. Julia is in conversation with Ed Saunders, tracing the origins of the MCU in comics and latterly in films. We find out what the Marvel method is and how some creatives flourish while others struggle. Enjoy our deep dive into the strong currents of the fluctuating fortunes of the company, including the phase when they sold all their best properties and had to resort to the B team which included such also rans as Iron Man. And look how that turned out! We go on to discuss the thorny issues of representation of women and non-white heroes, before taking a look at where it is going next. In the final section, we discuss which is the best comic book city to visit and what insurance premiums must be like in the Avengers' New York.

This podcast is brought to you by The Oxford Center for Fantasy, visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org for more information.

The Magic of Middle Earth

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 11:00:13 -0000

Today Julia Golding is joined by Matt Fox, creator of the Magic of Middle Earth exhibition currently showing at the Willis Museum, Basingstoke, Hampshire, open until 16 October. Matt's an avid collector of Tolkien-related artifacts. Hear about his huge collection, from artworks to bigatures, how he has recreated the Battle for Helm's Deep, and the chance for you to channel your inner hobbit for a selfie on his bar stool. We discuss what collecting has taught Matt about Tolkien and why is this is different from the world of sci-fi memorabilia collecting. What's the most collectible Tolkien toy prior to the Peter Jackson films? And in the most surprising turn in the conversation, find out about Smaug's missing legs! The exhibition is due to go on tour. You can get in touch with Matt and his collection on

https://www.facebook.com/TheMagicOfMiddleEarth https://www.hampshireculture.org.uk/event/magic-middle-earth http://www.brothershildebrandt.com

Things You Don't Know About Tolkien, CS Lewis And Oxford

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 15:00:00 -0000

There are many experts on the Inklings but there are still lots you might not know about how they lived in their home of Oxford. Julia Golding challenges some myths and makes some new ones about Tolkien and Lewis, and their experiences here. Was the Eagle and Child Pub where Narnia and The Lord of the Rings was first read aloud - or was that somewhere else? What's the mental geography of Oxford for someone who lives here long-term? Find out about Oxford as a place for military training for both writers and the surprising role of Wytham Woods. We jump from local ferries to sport to favorite trees - there's bound to be something in this that you didn't know and might find enriches your reading of their work. We go on to pick our favourite fantasy forest. Can you guess where it is?

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/mythmakers

Oxford As A Fantasy Hotspot

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 14:29:59 -0000

Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/mythmakers

Mythmakers - The Trailer

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 21:27:05 -0000

Mythmakers is the podcast for fantasy fans and creatives brought to you by the Oxford Centre for Fantasy. We will be exploring fantasy old and new, look at what went into writing your favourite series, learn tips from the experts, and discuss new books, TV shows and films. Mythmakers is brought to you from the city of Oxford - home to many of the world's greatest fantasy writers, from J.R.R. Tolkien and Middle-earth, to C.S. Lewis, creator of Narnia, and the grandfather of them all, Lewis Carroll with his Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. The Oxford story continues with outstanding contemporary writers finding inspiration among the ancient buildings, labyrinthine libraries, and gentle river meadows. Ready to jump down the rabbit hole with us to find your next mythmaker? Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org