For me, Writing Westward has been a podcast like no other. Although every episode is unified by the central theme of books written about the North American West, the titles and authors are delightfully varied in a way that leaves me looking forward to whatever might be next. There have been traditional academic histories, but also scientific works that describe Midwestern climate, buffalo, and birds. Other books have run the gamut of family history, dual biography, collections of creative nonfiction, innovative environmental history, and more. Writing Westward takes the “constraint” of its Western Studies theme as an opportunity, and it continually introduces listeners to new discoveries and fresh perspectives.
In each episode, Dr. Rensink brings his rich familiarity with Western Studies to bear as he asks questions that prompt additional thought and insight from the authors. And if you’re like me and haven’t read any of the books, these conversations offer a taste of the richness the texts offer.
Finally, I have really appreciated the sense of human connection Writing Westward creates. Episodes feel personable and relatable, and they remind the listener that behind every book is a human author.
Overall, I highly recommend Writing Westward. I look forward to my hour or so with the podcast every month.
