Monthly Archives: October 2011

The Search for Meaning

Posted on October 31, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

A number of people have addressed perceived issues in the Christian fantasy genre over the years, many of them raising valid problems. A few days ago, I stumbled across a new concern raised by fellow fantasy writer Lindsey Franklin. While … Continue reading →

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Posted in Christian Fantasy | Tagged , | 8 Comments

Real Life Hobbit Holes

Posted on October 28, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

Something about autumn always reminds me of the Shire, with its well-tended fields and woods and quiet allure. So what more fitting time of year to share these two real life hobbit holes, charming homes that sparked some creative inspiration … Continue reading →

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Posted in Fantastic in the Everyday | Tagged , | 6 Comments

Five Foundational Books for Christian Fantasy Readers and Writers

Posted on October 26, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

Christian fantasy has a long and rich history, one illuminated by many brilliant writers. Though I could have included more, I’ve limited this list to five titles that hold significance not only for Christian fantasy, but also the fantasy genre … Continue reading →

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Posted in Christian Fantasy | Tagged , , , , | 9 Comments

Fantasy Worlds That Come To Life

Posted on October 24, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

Step outside on a Virginia summer day, and a variety of sensations engulf you. The distinct rise-and-fall of cicada song, a multi-layered cacophony, forms the backdrop for every other sound. Strong, damp heat hangs thick in the air, a sauna … Continue reading →

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Posted in Christian Fantasy | Tagged | 8 Comments

The History and Lore of Swords
(Elements of Fantasy)

Posted on October 21, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

Throughout history, swords played an important role in defending life and livelihood. Over the years, they evolved in form and the techniques used to wield them, but they remained favored weapons of war through many centuries. In time, they came … Continue reading →

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Posted in Elements of Fantasy, Myth and Legend | 1 Comment

Of Mystery and Beauty

Posted on October 19, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

“The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and all science. He to whom this emotion is a stranger, who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in … Continue reading →

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Posted in God | Tagged , , | 3 Comments

A Steampunk Movement?

Posted on October 17, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

You don’t have to travel far in speculative circles to find references to steampunk, but when an exhibit shows up at the Museum of the History of Science (University of Oxford), you know the trend has gained more wide-spread recognition. … Continue reading →

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Posted in Miscellaneous | Tagged | 8 Comments

Librarians Recommend Speculative Fiction

Posted on October 14, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

A recent survey that analyzed library lending and recommendations sheds some light on the popularity of speculative fiction in our culture, especially as it relates to young adults. This survey drew responses from thirty-five teen and children’s librarians regarding the … Continue reading →

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Posted in Christian Fantasy | Tagged | 4 Comments

Does Hope Lead to Clichéd Fiction?

Posted on October 12, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

Most people desire a sense of hope, particularly in troubled times, and one place they get a glimpse of what hope means is through story. Edward Kitsis, one of the writers for Lost and producer for the upcoming ABC series … Continue reading →

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Posted in Christian Fantasy, Fairy Tales | Tagged | 9 Comments

Mythic Creature: The Balaur

Posted on October 10, 2011 by Sarah Sawyer

Dragons and dragon-like creatures appear in almost every mythos in the world, each with unique traits and lore befitting the culture from which they sprang. The Romanian balaur is an intriguing example. Name: Balaur Appearance: Dragon-like creatures covered in serpentine … Continue reading →

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Posted in Mythic Creatures | Tagged , , | 13 Comments