Fantasy for the Ages

Jim Scriven
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Jim (Father) and Zach (Son) talk about their ideas and perspectives on fantasy fiction, starting with Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time series but straying in various other directions as well. The generational difference in how they view what they read will become obvious (and entertaining, they hope!). Come enjoy our debates and explorations over what all these books mean, and see who you agree with.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Christian SFF Recommendations for Kids & Teens | Adventure Without the Compromise

    Looking for great fantasy & historical fiction for Middle Grades and YA readers that won’t constantly clash with Christian beliefs and values? After several recent episodes focused on adult readers, many of you asked for something specifically for kids and teens — books that are imaginative, adventurous, beautifully written… and either explicitly Christian or comfortably aligned with a Christian worldview. So in this episode, I build a starter shelf for families, youth leaders, teachers, and young readers themselves. We cover: • Middle Grades (explicitly Christian SFF + Christian-friendly classics) • Young Adult (explicitly Christian + secular works with strong moral foundations) • Stories that emphasize courage, sacrifice, redemption, humility, loyalty, and hope If you’re building a home library — or just looking for your next great read — this one’s for you. 💬 What books would YOU add to this list? 📖 Which of these shaped your childhood? 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 What are you reading with your kids right now? Drop your thoughts in the comments! ⸻ 🔔 Don’t Forget: 👍 Like the video 📚 Subscribe for more Fantasy for the Ages content ❤️ Support the channel on Patreon for bonus perks and early content!: patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges #ChristianReaders #ChristianBooks #MiddleGradeBooks #YoungAdultBooks #ChristianFantasy #FantasyForTheAges #CleanFantasy #BookRecommendations #YAReads #FamilyReading Want to purchase books/media mentioned in this episode? The Black Wood: https://t.ly/wAyq4 The Blood of Kings Trilogy: https://t.ly/bBEr- The Bronze Bow: https://t.ly/qbaaU Bunnicula Series: https://t.ly/eNeUz The Chronicles of Narnia: https://t.ly/AbE34 The Door Within Trilogy: https://t.ly/CYd00 The Drakenaarde Chronicles: https://t.ly/fMu9F The Green Ember Series: https://t.ly/Lp_Yi Harry Potter Series: https://t.ly/vI7Xe The Hobbit: https://t.ly/993A3 The Indian in the Cupboard Series: https://t.ly/lGk01 Johnny Tremain: https://t.ly/hgU6B The Lord of the Rings: https://t.ly/1eEP9 Mitosis: https://t.ly/ZN1cZ Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH: https://t.ly/zNC_t The Ranger’s Apprentice Series: https://t.ly/GkyaI The Ralph Mouse Series: https://t.ly/QkuwF The Reckoners: https://t.ly/d0Ec4 Redwall: https://t.ly/vk1up The Secret Garden: https://t.ly/FtKI0 Star Wars Legends: The Thrawn Trilogy: https://t.ly/lPt7t Where the Red Fern Grows: https://t.ly/dC_ME The Wingfeather Saga: https://t.ly/qMJ2T The Wizard of Oz Series: https://t.ly/YLUvY A Wrinkle in Time: https://t.ly/cAK14 Ways to connect with us: Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Jim’s Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim’s Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n 0:00 - Opening 1:40 - Episode Explanation 2:53 - Middle Grades Fiction 14:02 - Young Adult Fiction 20:51 - Bridging the Gap Recommendation 22:12 - Wrap-up & Conclusion ———————————————————————————— Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements: https://elements.envato.com/

    23 min

  2. 2 DAYS AGO

    The Most Beautiful Zombie Apocalypse Novel Ever Written?

    What if I told you the zombie apocalypse could be… beautiful? In this Jim solo episode of Fantasy for the Ages, I review The Reapers Are the Angels by Alden Bell — a short, haunting, Southern Gothic take on post-apocalyptic horror that absolutely stunned me. At just 225 pages, this novel delivers more depth, character development, and thematic weight than many books three times its size. Going into this, I was just hoping it would be an interesting read worth my time. I didn’t expect to love this. But wow. Temple may be one of the most unique and reflective protagonists I’ve encountered in horror fiction, and the prose? Gorgeous. In this spoiler-lite review, I cover: • Why this zombie novel feels unlike anything else in the genre • Six reasons you might love it (including the stunning prose and emotional depth) • Four reasons it may not be for everyone • Why I ultimately gave it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ • And why the ending lingers long after you close the book If you enjoy thoughtful horror, Southern Gothic atmosphere, morally complex characters, and character-driven storytelling — this one deserves your attention. Have you read The Reapers Are the Angels? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! 👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more fantasy, sci-fi, and horror discussions. ❤️ And thank you to our Patreon supporters for helping keep FFTA growing!: patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges #TheReapersAreTheAngels #ZombieFiction #HorrorBooks #PostApocalyptic #SouthernGothic #BookReview #SpeculativeFiction #FantasyForTheAges #BookTube #LiteraryHorror Want to purchase books/media mentioned in this episode? The Reapers are the Angels: https://t.ly/KRTom Swan Song: https://t.ly/i5F6p Ways to connect with us: Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Jim’s Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim’s Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n 0:00 - Opening 1:41 - Book Details 2:30 - Why Jim Read This 3:16 - Spoiler-Lite Summary 4:33 - Six Reasons You May Enjoy This Book 8:01 - Four Reasons You Might Not Enjoy It 9:16 - Jim’s Final Thoughts 10:16 - Closing & Wrap-Up ———————————————————————————— Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements: https://elements.envato.com/

    11 min

  3. 2 DAYS AGO

    Why This Unknown Fantasy Series Might Be Your New Favorite

    Do you miss classic epic fantasy?The kind with quests, looming kingdoms, mysterious artifacts, and heroes you can actually root for — without falling into tired tropes or endless grimdark?In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, I review The Silver Crystal by Ryan Lanz — a self-published epic fantasy that aims squarely at the heart of traditional adventure storytelling. Ryan reached out and offered me a copy, believing it would align with the kind of fantasy I love… and he wasn’t wrong.In this spoiler-lite review, I cover:⚔️ What the book is about💎 What makes it feel “classic”📚 8 reasons you might enjoy it⚖️ 4 reasons it might not work for everyone📖 Whether this indie epic fantasy is worth your timeIf you’re looking for wholesome, accessible epic fantasy that embraces the genre rather than deconstructing it, this might be one to check out.Have you read The Silver Crystal? Do you think traditional epic fantasy still has a strong place in today’s market? Let me know in the comments!If you enjoy fantasy, sci-fi, and horror deep dives from across the decades — subscribe and join us. Zach and I recently crossed 5,000 subscribers and are closing in on 6,000 already. Thank you for being part of this growing community!Support the channel:👍 Like the video🔔 Subscribe💬 Comment your thoughts❤️ Consider supporting us on Patreon: patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges#EpicFantasy #TheSilverCrystal #RyanLanz #FantasyBookReview #IndieFantasy #SelfPublishedFantasy #ClassicFantasy #FantasyBooks #BookTube #FantasyForTheAgesWant to purchase books/media mentioned in this episode?The Silver Crystal: https://t.ly/16YPLThe Way of Stones: https://t.ly/aZF52Ways to connect with us:Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.socialFollow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheagesJim’s Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim’s Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n 0:00 - Opening2:02 - Book Details3:08 - Why Jim Read This4:09 - Spoiler-Lite Summary5:47 - Eight Reasons You May Enjoy This Book7:31 - Four Reasons It Might Not Work for You8:28 - Jim’s Final Thoughts9:34 - Closing & Wrap-Up————————————————————————————Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements:https://elements.envato.com/

    10 min

  4. 6 DAYS AGO

    Top 10 Times Editorial Demands SAVED These SFFH Novels (Or Ruined Them?)

    What if The Lord of the Rings had been published as one giant book? What if The Stand had stayed permanently cut down? What if Ender’s Game had never expanded beyond a short story? For our 600th Tiny Talk, we’re diving into the fascinating (and sometimes dramatic) moments when publishers pushed authors to make changes — and how that tension shaped some of the greatest fantasy, sci-fi, and horror novels ever written. Sometimes publisher pressure made books better. Sometimes it delayed brilliance. And sometimes it accidentally created cultural legends. If you love behind-the-scenes publishing history, literary debates, and speculative fiction deep dives — this one’s for you. Let’s celebrate 600 Tiny Talks the nerdy way. 🎉 ⸻ 🔔 Don’t Forget: 👍 Like the video 📚 Subscribe for more fantasy, sci-fi & horror content 💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments — when did the publisher get it right (or wrong)? ❤️ Support the channel on Patreon for bonus perks and early content!: patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges #FantasyForTheAges #TinyTalk #PublishingHistory #LordOfTheRings #TheStand #Narnia #ScienceFiction #FantasyBooks #HorrorBooks #BookTube #SpeculativeFiction Want to purchase books/media mentioned in this episode? American Gods: https://t.ly/e_8ta The Chronicles of Narnia: https://t.ly/AbE34 Dune: https://t.ly/4_w_k Ender’s Game: https://t.ly/Z62Me The Lord of the Rings: https://t.ly/1eEP9 Neuromancer: https://t.ly/lN79I The Princess Bride: https://t.ly/SuswQ The Shining: https://t.ly/Y530H The Stand: https://t.ly/UG_4m A Wrinkle in Time: https://t.ly/cAK14 Ways to connect with us: Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Jim’s Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim’s Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n 0:00 - Opening & Episode Explanation 2:06 - Top 10 Examples from SFFH 11:56 - So What Do We Learn? 12:24 - Wrap-up & Conclusion ———————————————————————————— Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements: https://elements.envato.com/

    13 min

  5. 16 FEB

    BOBIVERSE Just Got DEEPER — "Heaven's River" Review?

    🚀 What makes Bob… Bob? After loving the original We Are Bob trilogy, I had one big question: could Dennis E. Taylor actually push the Bobiverse somewhere new — or was this going to feel like more of the same? In this spoiler-lite review of Heaven’s River, Book 4 of the Bobiverse series, I dive into the megastructure mystery, the tighter narrative focus, and the surprisingly deep identity questions that take this installment into more philosophical territory. This time, the Bobiverse doesn’t just expand outward — it digs inward. What does it mean to be a copy? When does a version stop being “Bob”? And can hard sci-fi accidentally stumble into questions that feel almost theological? I break down what works, what may not work for some readers, and why I’m genuinely impressed with how creatively Taylor continues developing this universe. If you enjoyed the original trilogy, this is one you’ll want to hear about. ⸻ 📚 Book Covered: Heaven’s River by Dennis E. Taylor Book 4 in the Bobiverse series ⸻ 💬 Join the conversation: Where does Heaven’s River rank for you in the Bobiverse? Did you like the tighter focus, or did you prefer the galaxy-spanning chaos of the original trilogy? 👍 Like the video if you enjoy sci-fi reviews 🔔 Subscribe for more fantasy, sci-fi, and horror content 💙 Consider supporting the channel on Patreon: patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges #HeavensRiver #Bobiverse #DennisETaylor #ScienceFiction #SciFiBooks #BookReview #SpeculativeFiction #SpaceOpera #AIStories #FantasyForTheAges Want to purchase books/media mentioned in this episode? Heaven’s River: https://t.ly/gpLCy Ways to connect with us: Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Jim’s Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim’s Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n 0:00 - Opening 1:12 - Book Details 2:38 - Why Jim Read This 3:20 - Spoiler-Lite Summary 4:06 - Six Reasons You May Love This 6:31 - Three Reasons It Might Not Be for You 7:45 - Final Thoughts 8:53 - Closing & Wrap-Up ———————————————————————————— Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements: https://elements.envato.com/

    9 min

  6. 13 FEB

    Christians Can Enjoy THESE Fantasy AND Sci-Fi Selections Without Feeling Guilty!

    As Christians, we don’t have to be afraid of books that don’t match our faith. But sometimes? It’s really nice to read stories we can enjoy without compromise. After the huge response to my recent episode on SFF Books That Don’t Hate Christianity, you all flooded the comments with recommendations. So today I’m back with FIVE ranked sections of Christian-friendly fantasy and sci-fi — from lesser-known gems to major Christian SFF staples, to surprising TBR discoveries… and even a few big-name titles I’m honestly embarrassed I didn’t mention last time. From The Wingfeather Saga and Ted Dekker’s Circle Series, to A Canticle for Leibowitz, The Holy War, The Dresden Files, and many more — this list spans centuries, genres, and styles. Whether you’re looking for explicitly Christian fiction or stories that simply take faith, morality, and redemption seriously, there’s something here for you. We love all kinds of SFF here at Fantasy for the Ages. But today’s episode is about the ones where you don’t have to tilt your head at 30% to find the beauty. 👇 Let me know in the comments: What Christian-friendly SFF should I read next? What did I miss? Which of these is your #1? If you enjoy thoughtful fantasy & sci-fi discussions, consider subscribing and supporting the channel on Patreon (link below). Your support keeps Fantasy for the Ages growing!: patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges #ChristianFantasy #ChristianSciFi #SFF #FaithAndFiction #WingfeatherSaga #TedDekker #CanticleForLeibowitz #FantasyBooks #SciFiBooks #BookTube #FantasyForTheAges Ways to connect with us: Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Jim’s Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim’s Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n 0:00 - Opening 1:48 - Episode Explanation 3:02 - Lesser Known Christian SFF Recs 7:51 - Major Christian SFF Recs 12:44 - Christian-Friendly That Didn’t Quite Work for Me 14:55 - TBR Surprises That ARE Christian-Friendly 18:25 - Big Name Books: How Did I Forget These?! 22:34 - Wrap-up & Conclusion ———————————————————————————— Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements: https://elements.envato.com/

    24 min

  7. 8 FEB

    SFF Books That Don't Hate Christianity — Jim's Recs

    Are you a Christian who loves fantasy and science fiction, but is tired of stories that mock, dismiss, or outright attack faith? You’re not alone. In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, Jim shares 10 outstanding fantasy and sci-fi reading recommendations for Christians who want great storytelling that aligns with, explores, or is deeply informed by a Christian worldview. These aren’t sermons in disguise—but thoughtful, imaginative, and often powerful stories that wrestle with good and evil, sacrifice, redemption, hope, and what it means to live faithfully in a broken world. Rather than a single Top 10, this video breaks the recommendations into three ranked categories: • Books where Christianity is an explicit and central focus • Stories where Christian belief is foundational but not front-and-center • Genre classics heavily shaped by Christian themes and moral frameworks Featured works include Pilgrims, The Screwtape Letters, The Chronicles of Narnia, Dune, and The Lord of the Rings — along with several others that Christian readers consistently find meaningful and uplifting. Whether you’re looking for encouragement, inspiration, or simply a good book that won’t leave you discouraged, this list is for you. 💬 Join the conversation in the comments: Which of these have you read? What would you add? 💬 Jump into our Discord to talk books, faith, and fandom with fellow readers. ❤️ Support the channel on Patreon to help keep Fantasy for the Ages going strong. Visit our Patreon page to help support the channel and get some special “thank you” perks like our other supporters: patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges #FantasyBooks #ChristianReaders #ScienceFictionBooks #FaithAndFiction #BookRecommendations #ChristianFantasy #SFF #FantasyForTheAges Ways to connect with us: Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Jim’s Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim’s Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n 0:00 - Opening 2:03 - Episode Explanation 3:47 - Books Where Christianity is a Very Real Element & Focus 6:50 - Books Where Christianity Is Foundational, but Not the Main Focus 8:23 - Books Heavily Influenced by Christian Themes 10:44 - Wrap-up & Conclusion ———————————————————————————— Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements: https://elements.envato.com/

    12 min

  8. 6 FEB

    Most EPIC Fantasy and Sci Fi Sidekick Duos Ever? (Our TOP 10!)

    Some characters are great on their own. But put the right two together, and magic happens. In this episode of Fantasy for the Ages, Jim & Zach dive into the Best Duos in Fantasy & Sci-Fi — across books, movies, and television — focusing on the pairs whose chemistry, banter, loyalty, and conflict make their stories better. These are the duos who: • Steal scenes every time they’re together • Elevate the world and the main plot • Balance humor, heart, and tension • And often end up being just as memorable as the heroes themselves From ride-or-die friendships to uneasy alliances to partnerships forged under fire, we’re celebrating the pairs that prove great stories aren’t just about individuals, they’re about relationships. ⚠️ This episode is spoiler-light, keeping the focus on why these duos work rather than what ultimately happens to them. 👉 Jump into the comments and tell us: • Which duo is your all-time favorite? • Who did we miss? • And which pair would you absolutely watch an entire spin-off about? If you love Fantasy & Sci-Fi characters, dynamics, and debates, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to: 👍 Like the video 📺 Subscribe for more Fantasy, Sci-Fi, & Horror content 🔔 Ring the bell so you don’t miss future rankings and discussions 💬 Join the conversation in the comments Visit our Patreon page to help support the channel and get some special “thank you” perks like our other supporters: patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges #FantasyForTheAges #BestDuos #FantasyBooks #SciFiBooks #FantasyMovies #SciFiMovies #SFF #BookTube #GeekDebate Ways to connect with us: Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on "X": @Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Blue Sky: @fantasy4theages.bsky.social Follow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Jim’s Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim’s Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n 0:00 - Opening 1:02 - Episode Explanation 2:23 - We Build Our Top 10 List 20:28 - The Top 10 Finalized 21:18 - Wrap-up & Conclusion ———————————————————————————— Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements: https://elements.envato.com/

    22 min
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About

Jim (Father) and Zach (Son) talk about their ideas and perspectives on fantasy fiction, starting with Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time series but straying in various other directions as well. The generational difference in how they view what they read will become obvious (and entertaining, they hope!). Come enjoy our debates and explorations over what all these books mean, and see who you agree with.

Information

  • Creator
    Jim Scriven
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    895
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jim Scriven
  • Show Website
    Fantasy for the Ages