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.

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

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.

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/

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

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

In this episode, Oscar and KJ delve into the concept of crafting big characters with small interior worlds, unearthing the secrets behind their depth and complexity. The magic and fantasy in these worlds are written using intrusive and liminal techniques, creating characters whose interior worlds spill over into reality. These worlds can be remarkably intimate, filled with rich emotions, vulnerabilities, and personal struggles.

What we are reading:

• KJ Is reading The Daughter of Doctor Moreau
• Oscar is reading A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

Join Oscar Ceceña and KJ Aiello on this deep-dive episode of the Why We Write Fantasy podcast as they unpack and discuss two fantasy novels and how these books helped them become better writers: "A Monster Calls" by Patrick Ness and "Leviathan Wakes" by James S. A. Corey.

What we’re reading:

• KJ is reading Catch and Kill by Ronan Farrow
• Oscar is reading Before They Are Hanged by Joe Abercrombie