The Side Quest Podcast

Slava & Jonathan
  • 5.0 (5)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Side Quest Podcast

Join Slava and Jonathan as they discuss the books they are reading. Explore world-building, characters, and story development—and share some laughs along the way. Side Quest — a literary adventure podcast.

  1. Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End Part 1

    5D AGO

    Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End Part 1

    In this episode of the Side Quest podcast, Slava and Jonathan delve into the survival horror novel 'Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End' by Manel Llorriero. They discuss the author's background and the book's journey from blog to bestseller. The conversation includes character goals and a critical reflection on the protagonist's development throughout the story. Our website: www.thesidequestpodcast.com Discover Side Quest: https://linktr.ee/asidequestPowered by DescriptOur IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v (00:00) Intro (01:27) Exploring Apocalypse Z: Overview and Themes (02:28) Author Spotlight: Manel Llorriero (04:59) The Journey of Apocalypse Z: From Blog to Bestseller (11:44) Plot Summary and Character Goals (20:23) Rants and Reflections on Character Development (25:02) The Challenge of Journal Entry Storytelling (38:05) Exploring Themes in the Apocalypse (48:24) Comparing Horror and Zombie Genres

    54 min
  2. The Girl With All The Gifts Part 3

    APR 8

    The Girl With All The Gifts Part 3

    In this episode of The Side Quest Podcast, Slava and Jonathan are joined by guest Abby from BooksAndCrannies2023 to explore the chilling and thought-provoking novel The Girl With All The Gifts. The trio dives deep into the book’s core themes, including the unique perspective offered by Melanie, the ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding scientific survival, and how the story balances horror with emotional weight. Whether you’re a fan of horror, literary analysis, or speculative storytelling, this episode offers an engaging blend of insight, imagination, and thoughtful discussion. Abby from @booksandcrannies2023 recommended this book. Make sure to follow her and check out her Goodreads account and Pango Bookstore. Our website: www.thesidequestpodcast.com Discover Side Quest: https://linktr.ee/asidequestPowered by DescriptOur IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v (00:00) Intro (01:01) Meet Abby from Books and Crannies (03:14) Exploring 'The Girl With All The Gifts' (06:14) Character Perspectives and Themes (10:32) Scientific Grounding in Horror (15:24) Ending Analysis and Moral Dilemmas (20:25) Character Arcs and Development (28:20) Pacing and Narration Insights (31:09) Fun Side Quest: Zombie Survival Team (36:30) Casting the Movie Adaptation (36:56) Casting the Characters (44:18) Exploring Themes in Literature (45:02) Monsters or Humans? (59:16) Closing Thoughts

    1h 2m
  3. The Girl With All The Gifts Part 2

    APR 1

    The Girl With All The Gifts Part 2

    In this episode of the Side Quest podcast, Slava and Jonathan delve into the themes of character development, world-building, and ethical dilemmas in M.R. Carey's 'The Girl With All The Gifts'. They discuss the vivid imagery of the post-apocalyptic setting, the pacing of the narrative, and the effective use of foreshadowing to enhance character arcs. They explore the contrasting motivations and actions of characters like Melanie and Caldwell, the emotional toll of survival, and the consequences of choices made in dire circumstances. A fellow content creator on Instagram, @booksandcrannies2023, recommended this book. Make sure to give her a follow. Our website: www.thesidequestpodcast.com Discover Side Quest: https://linktr.ee/asidequestPowered by DescriptOur IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v Chapters(00:00) – Intro (02:57) – World-Building in The Girl with All the Gifts (06:13) – Character Development & Pacing (10:29) – Foreshadowing & Character Arcs (14:15) – Pandora’s Box & Its Modern Implications (36:04) – Plot Discussion & Ethical Dilemmas (40:59) – Cultural Knowledge & Education Themes (42:49) – Survival in a Post-Apocalyptic World (43:45) – Melanie’s Identity & Adolescence (48:54) – The Nature of The Hungries (53:20) – The Junkers & Their Role in the Story (55:49) – Contrasting Characters: Melanie vs. Caldwell (56:40) – The Emotional Toll of Survival (01:01:07) – Consequences of Choices & Morality (01:04:55) – The New Humanity & Its Future (01:06:20) – Open-Ended Conclusions & Implications

    1h 15m
  4. The Girl With All The Gifts Part 1

    MAR 25

    The Girl With All The Gifts Part 1

    In this episode of the Side Quest podcast, Slava and Jonathan discuss M.R. Carey's novel The Girl with All the Gifts. They explore the story's unique perspective, which combines horror and science fiction elements. The discussion covers the author's background, the creative process behind the book, character development, pacing, and reader engagement, culminating in a lively debate about the themes and structure of the narrative. A fellow content creator on Instagram, @booksandcrannies2023, recommended this book. Make sure to give her a follow.  Our website: www.thesidequestpodcast.com Discover Side Quest: https://linktr.ee/asidequestPowered by DescriptOur IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v Chapters(00:00) – Intro(01:30) – Exploring The Girl with All the Gifts(04:40) – Understanding M.R. Carey and His Works(09:00) – The Creative Process Behind the Novel(10:57) – Character Development and Perspectives(15:11) – Pacing & Story Structure Discussion(19:21) – Engagement & Reader Expectations(25:55) – Dissecting Themes & Character Arcs(32:09) – Conclusion & Audience Engagement(34:26) – The Hungry Identity: Sisyphus & Survival(38:14) – Character Exploration: Who Stands Out?(45:01) – Character Goals & Understanding Motivations(47:42) – Culinary Delights of The Hungry(50:32) – The Heart of the Matter: Reason vs. Empathy

    1h 5m
  5. Uncrowned Part 3

    MAR 18

    Uncrowned Part 3

    In this episode, Slava and Jonathan, joined by guests Casey and JT, explore Uncrowned Part 3. They discuss character dynamics, the emotional stakes of the tournament, and the role of monarchs. The conversation highlights Will Wight’s evolving writing style, the tension between Lyndon and Yaren, and the cultivation genre. Our website: www.thesidequestpodcast.com Discover Side Quest: https://linktr.ee/asidequestPowered by DescriptOur IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v Chapters(00:00) – Intro(02:47) – Uncrowned Part 3 Recap & Key Moments(05:57) – Character Dynamics: Lyndon, Yaren, and Rivalries(11:23) – Monarchs & Tournament Politics in Cradle(15:07) – Emotional Stakes: The Cost of Competition(20:50) – Character Growth & Relationship Evolution(26:17) – Will Wight’s Writing Style & Emotional Impact(29:47) – Trauma & Character Development in Cultivation Stories(39:04) – Antagonists as Forces vs. Villains in Storytelling(49:21) – The Akura Clan: Naming Conventions & Meaning(52:00) – Pride vs. Confidence in Character Arcs(58:58) – Power, Authority & Leadership in Cradle(01:08:00) – Moral Dilemmas of Leadership & Responsibility(01:13:57) – Fate, Free Will & Character Choices

    1h 25m
  6. Uncrowned Part 2

    MAR 11

    Uncrowned Part 2

    Hey Adventurers! In this episode of the SideQuest Podcast, Slava and Jonathan continue their discussion of Uncrowned, unraveling the tournament battles, character growth, and world-shaking power struggles of the Cradle series. Whether you're a longtime Cradle fan or new to the series, this episode is packed with insights, analysis, and discussions on Will Wight’s storytelling mastery.  Our website: www.thesidequestpodcast.com Discover Side Quest: https://linktr.ee/asidequestPowered by DescriptOur IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v Chapters(00:00) Intro (02:40) Engagement with Will White (03:44) Exploring Uncrowned's Plot (07:49) The Uncrowned King Tournament (10:25) Character Dynamics and Monarchs (15:09) Linden's Growth and Challenges (22:11) Tournament Trials and Team Dynamics (25:11) Designing New Tournament Challenges (33:14) Consequences of Decisions in the Labyrinth (34:42) The Uncrowned King Tournament Begins (37:43) Lyndon's Growth and Resourcefulness (40:11) Identifying the Big Bad: The Mad King and Dread Gods (43:41) Character Dynamics: Allies and Antagonists (47:14) Romantic Tensions and Character Relationships (54:11) Political Power Shifts and Future Conflicts

    1h 2m
  7. Uncrowned Part 1

    MAR 4

    Uncrowned Part 1

    Hey Adventurers! Back to the Cradle we go. Slava and Jonathan explore Uncrowned, book seven of Will White's Cradle series. They discuss the Uncrowned King tournament, power dynamics, and character growth. Lyndon, Yaren, and Mercy face personal trials that test friendship, ambition, and resilience. Yaren's battle with her blood shadow sparks a debate on the sacred vs. profane. The hosts also connect the story to Journey to the West, mythology, and classic literature, revealing deeper themes of perseverance and transformation. Our website: www.thesidequestpodcast.com Discover Side Quest: https://linktr.ee/asidequestPowered by DescriptOur IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v Chapters (00:00) Introduction to SideQuest Podcast and Uncrowned (03:03) Exploring the Uncrowned King Tournament (06:05) Character Growth and Development in Uncrowned (08:55) Themes of Power and Responsibility (12:04) Friendship and Companionship in Cradle (14:55) The Sacred and the Profane (18:12) Resilience and Perseverance (20:59) Conclusion and Future Discussions (26:22) Exploring Character Choices in Uncrowned (29:11) Resilience and Perseverance in Adversity (33:15) The Power of Friendship and Companionship (39:41) Mythology and Its Influence on Character Journeys

    52 min
  8. Fight Club Part 3

    FEB 25

    Fight Club Part 3

    Hey Adventurers! Today, we continue our dive into Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk. For this final episode, Jess, our favorite "Chuck P" scholar, joins us for our usual guest episode overview. Over three episodes, we've delved into this groundbreaking novel. We hope you've enjoyed it. Our website: www.thesidequestpodcast.com Discover Side Quest: https://linktr.ee/asidequestPowered by DescriptOur IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v Our IG Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Leave us a comment & connect with us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our TikTok Channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Music by HoliznaCC0v (00:00) Intro (01:12) Overview of Fight Club (04:04) Book vs. Movie: Key Differences (10:17) Exploring Fight Club 2 and 3 (23:18) Creating Our Own Fight Club Rules (28:09) Books for Women vs. Books for Men (35:52) The Concept of a Women's Fight Club (43:04) Character Analysis: Marla vs. The Narrator (48:20) The Importance of Third Spaces (56:10) The Role of Community in Modern Life (01:04:48) Quotable Moments and Outro

    1h 11m
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    About

    Join Slava and Jonathan as they discuss the books they are reading. Explore world-building, characters, and story development—and share some laughs along the way. Side Quest — a literary adventure podcast.

    Information

    • Creator
      Slava & Jonathan
    • Years Active
      2023 - 2025
    • Episodes
      119
    • Rating
      Explicit
    • Copyright
      © Slava & Jonathan
    • Show Website
      The Side Quest Podcast

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