13 episodes

A podcast about all the reasons why we write (and read) fantasy, with hosts Oscar Ceceña and KJ Aiello. Check us out at www.whywewritefantasy.com and on Instagram at @whywewritefantasy.

Why We Write Fantasy Why We Write Fantasy

    • Arts

A podcast about all the reasons why we write (and read) fantasy, with hosts Oscar Ceceña and KJ Aiello. Check us out at www.whywewritefantasy.com and on Instagram at @whywewritefantasy.

    Greek Mythology

    Greek Mythology

    Is Greek mythology fantasy or history? Or perhaps it’s both. Whatever it is, Greek myths, folklore, and legends have provided a wellspring of inspiration for fantasy and historical writers alike. In this episode, KJ and Oscar chat about their own love of Greek mythology, from writing to games to literature, and how they’ve used it in their own fantasy writing.

    • 32 min
    Writing inspiration

    Writing inspiration

    In this episode, KJ and Oscar take you on a journey through their personal experiences, revealing the secrets behind their wellspring of creativity. Drawing from a myriad of sources, including drawing and sketching, walking and video games, they share how they uncover inspiration in the most unexpected places – from everyday encounters to the wonders of nature and everything in between.
     
    What are we reading:
    KJ is reading the Fourth Wing
    Oscar is reading Foundation by Isaac Asimov

    • 35 min
    Everything You Need to Know About Writing Groups

    Everything You Need to Know About Writing Groups

    Oscar and KJ embark on a journey to discover the true essence of writing groups and why they play a pivotal role in nurturing their own writer growth. From providing valuable critique to offering unwavering support and encouragement, these groups serve as a refuge for writers to hone their skills and flourish in their creative endeavours.
    What we are reading:
    KJ is NOT reading! But she's playing Zelda Breath of the Wild (her first Zelda game!).
    Oscar is reading "How high we go in the dark" by Sequoia Nagamatsu.

    • 35 min
    Portal Worlds and Belonging with Linh Nguyen

    Portal Worlds and Belonging with Linh Nguyen

    Join Oscar and KJ for an illuminating chat as they dive into portal worlds with middle-grade author Linh S. Nguyen. In this episode, KJ and Linh talk about finding belonging, home, and identity through fantasy, and how portal worlds can sometimes lead us home. KJ and Linh also chat about Linh’s debut middle-grade novel, ‘No Place Like Home’ and her path to traditional publishing.”
     
    What we are reading:
    - KJ is reading Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson
    - Oscar is reading The Last Argument of Kings by Joe Abercrombie
     
    Linh's links:
    https://www.linhsnguyen.com/
    https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443466202/no-place-like-home/

    • 30 min
    Writing in the Age of AI

    Writing in the Age of AI

    In this episode, Oscar and KJ dive into the realm where AI meets fantasy writing and publishing. From AI-powered story generators to virtual writing tools, we explore all the possibilities and ethics that AI technology has uncovered in fantasy writing.
    What we are reading:
    - KJ is reading The Lives of Puppets by TJ Klune
    - Oscar is reading The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch and Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

    • 37 min
    Do you need an agent?

    Do you need an agent?

    As the publishing landscape has changed, the role of literary agents has as well. In this episode, Oscar and KJ dive into the world of literary agents, discussing their role in the publishing industry, how new authors can go about querying, and answering the ages-old question: “Do I need a literary agent?
    Resources mentioned:
    Eric Smith
    FOLD
    Publisher's Weekly
    Quill Enquire
    Manuscript Wishlist
    Query Tracker
    What we are reading:
    KJ is reading Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
    Oscar is reading Kings of the Wyld by Nicholas Eames

    • 34 min

Top Podcasts In Arts

The Pink House with Sam Smith
Lemonada Media
Fresh Air
NPR
The Moth
The Moth
99% Invisible
Roman Mars
Let's Get Dressed
Dear Media
The Magnus Archives
Rusty Quill