Episodes

  • 321. Which Fantastical Stories Help Us Love Our Homelands?

    321. Which Fantastical Stories Help Us Love Our Homelands?

    · Fantastical Truth

    Not just Independence Day, but all month long, American citizens are celebrating our nation’s semiquincentennial called “America 250.” Other fans from around the world are joining in! But some folks, of course, feel uncertain about such patriotism. Don’t our countries have a lot of problems? Isn’t our eternal citizenship in Heaven? Let’s explore how Scripture endorses “the glory and honor of the nations.” And let’s recall how fantastical stories illustrate this good love of our country.[1. Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash.]

    Episode sponsorsWorlds Collide by Clint HallAbove the Circle of Earth (softcover) by E. Stephen BurnettIffy Eats Monsters for Breakfast by Bryan Timothy MitchellLorehaven Guild: July 2026 book quest for The Silver ChairMission updateNew at Lorehaven: review of All That GlowsSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild1. Why some struggle to love their homelandWe’ll disclaim illegitimate hatred or homeland, called oikophobia.Some prefer imaginary or opposite “homes” rather than real ones.Still others are rank traitors for bad reasons, and can be rejected.Yet more legitimately, “home” has a bad stigma for some people.We must not let “home was bad for me” turn into “it’s bad for all.”Nor should we let this impulse turn into “the nation is bad for all.”Yes, a few countries are built on truly wicked foundations.But most are not—certainly not those with listeners to us now.Even if people do like America, however, they may feel guilty.A similar impulse occurs to Christians who like other earthly gifts.“Our treasure is in heaven, so nothing here on Earth matters.”Subtle gnosticism: if it all burns, why value these temporal places?2. How stories remind us of good homelandsNaturally we begin with the classics by authors who loved England.Lewis and Tolkien saw bad battles and offered critiques at home.But their stories remind us how good heroes fight for their peoples.Hobbits foresee the danger to the Shire and leave home to stop it.Aragorn loves his people and his country, despite their flaws.Faramir doesn’t love weapons but “that [land] which they defend.”Narnia’s kings and allies fight for her and for other good countries.The Horse and His Boy is about the good country of Archenland.Even harsh Calormenes, opposed to Narnia, have good qualities.Classic sci-fi by the French Jules Verne honors American spirit.Japanese stories adore American heroes, and we return the favor.On this side of the pond, stories show America’s flaws and heroes.Independence Day (1996) shows a pulpified-U.S. fighting aliens.Transformers and Top Gun movies tend to follow that tradition.Overtly “patriotic” stories are more about flavor, not philosophy.Back in the UK, Stephen thinks Harry Potter shows this differently.Spoilers: Harry learns Prof. Dumbledore made a lot of mistakes.Yet the grown-up Harry chooses to stay on his mentor’s side.And really, such open-eyed loyalty is the root of good patriotism.3. And yes, good countries could last forever.These are good enough reasons to love even temporal gifts.But let’s add more. I believe great nations are in fact eternal.Why? Because of direct promises about eternity in Scripture.

    By [the city’s] light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it, and its gates will never be shut by day—and there will be no night there. They will bring into it the glory and the honor of the nations.

    Revelation 21: 24-26

    John could have said “earthly kingdoms get destroyed.” He didn’t.He clearly means us to think that earthly authorities can continue.And he specifically says “the glory and the honor of the nations.”It would appear that nations (groups of people) are not sinful.New Earth is the fulfillment of God’s original purpose for Earth.So why not New Israel? New India? New Britain? New America?Could the “glory and honor” include fireworks? Hot dogs? Ideas?Jesus is King of all eternity. Yet other “kings” will also be known.Other verses refer to saints having leadership in the New Earth.Could some lands try different models? Monarchy? Democracy?Perhaps in the New Earth, we’ll see the best of all those systems.Voting could continue, in some ways, certainly at smaller scales.If this seems weird, recall that nations are just large people groups.No prophecy implies a removal of today’s diversity of humans.Nor does it imply that everyone will love everyone else the same.New Earth will not sanctify “everyone belongs to everyone else.”Surely, after loving Jesus most, we’ll also love others differently.You’ll love your own family “more” than other people’s families.And if you were married, you’ll love him or her more than others.So it is with countries. It’s okay, even good, to have preferences.We want people to like their own spouses/families/countries most.So if that impulse will be right forever, it can also be right today.For more, read this: Why I Look Forward to America 250,000.Com stationTop question for listenersHave you ever struggled to love your homeland?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Lots of folks have said plenty about Christopher Nolan’s controversial retelling of Homer’s classic The Odyssey. We might see the movie. Or we might not. In either case, this book is an absolute cornerstone not just of human literature, but of fantastical fiction. How did this hero’s journey change the course of all other heroic legends after him?

  • 320. How is Realm Makers Reshaping Our Culture?

    320. How is Realm Makers Reshaping Our Culture?

    · Fantastical Truth

    This year’s Realm Makers event came up fast. Zack and Stephen had a blast at the annual event just two weeks ago in St. Louis, Missouri. Whether you got to join us there, or would like to catch up later, let’s survey the successes of this three-day conference and expo. And as more Christian fans (and creators!) find their place in these challenging yet fantastical worlds, we will explore how Realm Makers is not just helping you find your tribe, but helping slowly change the real world.

    Episode sponsorsTwist of Time by Tricia Goyer and Nathan GoyerRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Author MediaIffy Eats Monsters for Breakfast by Bryan Timothy MitchellMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new reviewsStephen’s article: “Why I Look Forward to America 250,000.”Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild.This week: we begin our quest into C. S. Lewis’s The Silver Chair!1. Thursday: the Realm Awards banquetZack’s arrival and initial view of the St. Louis Union Station Hotel.Comparisons between this new venue and previous RM locations.Stephen’s arrival and all-day setup of the Lorehaven booth.Evening festivities: the Realm Awards costume banquet.What we wore, what we saw, and who won best dressed.This event celebrates the best Christian-made fantastical stories.

    Winner of the Realm Award for 2026 Book of the Year: The Unraveling of Emlyn DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin

    Winners of the 2026 Realm Awards:Comics/Graphic Novels
    The Epistle to the Galatians: Word for Word Bible Comic: NIV Translation, illustrated by Simon Amadeus Pillario, published by Word for Word Bible ComicsCover Design
    Daughter of Light by Morgan L. Busse, cover design by Jenneth Leed, published by Enclave PublishingFlash Fiction
    “Godspeed, Spaulding” by Olivia Gratehouse, published by Havok PublishingShort Stories
    “The Department of Lost Things” by Shannae Grace, published by The Author ConservatoryAudio Drama
    Route Styx (Season 1) by Colton Grellier, published by Sound and Fury EntertainmentAudio, Short to Medium Length
    Jake Muller Adventures: Undead by Micah Touchet and Darby Kern, published by Tannhauser Gate EntertainmentAudio, Novel Length
    Embergold by Rachelle Nelson, narrated by Aimee Lilly, published by Oasis AudioNovelette/Novella
    “The Keeper’s Voice” by Teddi Deppner, published by Parabolic Orbits / Onward and Upward Media, LLC / Ben AveryDebut
    Return to Aramon: A New Moon by Ezra Ferguson, published by Songmyth Media, LLCMiddle Grade/Young Readers (Combined Category)
    The Mage Pocket: Apprentice Alliance by Millie Florence, published by Sprouting Pen PressYoung Adult
    The Unraveling of Emlyn DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin, published by Enclave EscapeAdult
    The Valkyrie by Carrie Cotten, independently publishedHorror/Paranormal/Supernatural
    Forever by Gina Detwiler, published by Ally PressCross-genre
    The Dogs of War by Emily Hayse, published by Blue Maverick PressFantasy (General)
    Fates Defiant by Brigitte Cromey and C. M. Banschbach, Borderlands Publishing CompanyFantasy (Romance)
    Rune by Victoria McCombs, independently publishedScience Fiction
    The Crier Stone by Lyndsey Lewellen, published by Enclave EscapeReaders Choice Award
    Captive by Bradley Caffee, published by Mountain Brook Fire2026 Book of the Year
    The Unraveling of Emlyn DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin, published by Enclave Escape2. Friday: Realm Makers Expo, day 1Intro the Lorehaven booth and especially our Side Quests.This time we had distinct Creature Quests and Treasure Quests.Lacy Rhiannon is that overseer, while Stephen helps/talks sci-fi.Lots of families with kids found purpose in visiting all other booths!That afternoon, Stephen and Zack joined Clint Hall’s sci-fi panel.Stephen then joined Lucas Kitchen’s “Christian label” discussion.Zack’s perspective on the writing conference, including keynotes.3. Saturday: Realm Makers Expo, day 2Today was less writers’ conference, more fan-focused events.Stephen joined a book-signing with Ronie Kendig and Kathy Tyers.Also there: German Lutheran pastor/Jedi knight Stefan Munker!Plus our new Realmie, Jess Luttrell of the Cosplay4Christ podcast.Later, Stephen had a blast emceeing Tricia/Nathan Goyer’s event.More meetings with fantastic creatives, including Paul McCusker.Zack’s perspective on the end, including any keynote addresses.Com stationTop question for listenersWill we see you next year, July 22–24, for Realm Makers 2027?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Not just Independence Day, but all month long, American citizens are celebrating our nation’s semiquincentennial called “America 250.” Other fans from around the world are joining in! But some folks, of course, feel uncertain about such patriotism. Don’t our countries have a lot of problems? Isn’t our eternal citizenship in Heaven? Let’s explore how Scripture endorses “the glory and honor of the nations.” And let’s recall how fantastical stories illustrate this good love of our country.

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  • 319. Can Christian Creators Use Generative AI to Save Culture?

    319. Can Christian Creators Use Generative AI to Save Culture?

    · Fantastical Truth

    Gatekeepers everywhere. If they’re not “Big Hollywood” trying to fence out Christian creators, they’re natural barriers like lack of resources. Then along comes the siren call of generative AI. It is said these tools can boost creators’ art powers and help them dodge burly guards at the gates! Of course, these programs also generate quite a ruckus. But apart from disputes over job changes and environmental impacts lies one greater question for us fans—can all these cool tools actually help Christian storytellers make amazing new works that change our world?

    Episode sponsorsTwist of Time by Tricia Goyer and Nathan GoyerRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Author MediaIffy Eats Monsters for Breakfast by Bryan Timothy MitchellMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new reviews of The Donor and moreSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild1. Yes, if we use gen-AI as tools, not minds.Stephen is first to admit some hatred of AI has grown very foolish.Undoubtedly these may include absurdist political activisms.You may have facts/opinions about data centers and water use.And you may want to “beat China,” or else not care about that.But some of us at Lorehaven never first relied on those arguments.If you marry that “spirit of age,” pro– or anti-AI, you’ll be widowed.Instead we asked about the biblical purposes of humans and art.So all we say here needs to be the Scriptural steel-man version.What if tech lords did make AI cheaper? Built in space? Won big?Your support/opposition to any tool should remain the exact same.Stephen prefers one guiding idea: use AI as a “tool,” not “mind.”

    “…Never trust anything that can think for itself if you can’t see where it keeps its brain?”

    —Arthur Weasley in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J. K. Rowling

    2. Maybe, with biblical human safeguards.In this case, biblical reason supports mastery over tools, not verse.This isn’t just about AI or any technology, but universal to creation.Mankind can abuse anything as an idol or use it for God’s glory.AI is a special case when it is generative, “making” “new” “art.”Creators have different opinions on how/whether to use this.Stephen does refuse to use generative AI in basically all respects.Nothing he writes, at any stage of the process, is AI-generated.However, he will use AI programs as tools for research/tutoring.These programs excel at gathering/repeating public information.When it’s “scraped” from free sources, that seems more ethical.Researchers, however, should know to cite primary sources.Creators can do that may aim closer for biblically ideal creativity.But if creators refuse, and “outsource” their own minds to tools?Well, they’ll get lost in the slop and will reach creative dead ends.3. No, if we rank ourselves over fan interests.A few activists seem overly bullish on using AI as substitute-minds.They’re the opposite to reflexive (and short-sighted) AI haters.Some even call loudly for Christian-made art, quick, easy, good(?).This seems a strange cope, short-sighted, and reality-challenged.The cope: some creatives have not made it far past previous gates.They do seem to think mechanical tools will solve human problems.Short-sighted: Christians do already use AI to generate “artworks.”Example: Jon Erwin with House of David season 2 and Old Stories.Yet we don’t hear much about these. That may tell us something.Reality-challenged: this is where Stephen may end the debate.Clear aside all talk of ethics, gatekeepers, policies, impacts.Four simple words blow up gen-AI optimism: Thanks, I hate it.That’s all you need to end all this hoopla about gen-AI revolutions.If the people don’t want it, they don’t want it. And that’s that.Right now, people don’t want it. How do we know? We asked AI.Stephen queried three AI programs with this question:

    Apart from the debates over cost, environmental impact, economy shifts, and all the politics, especially among leaders in big tech and government … what could we say is the public’s general *impression* in response to AI-generated images, movies, music, and other artworks? Is the public’s stated response good, mixed, or negative? Any particular trend-lines to note?

    Response from ChatGPT (excerpt, more optimistic):

    Public sentiment is neither uniformly positive nor uniformly negative — it skews positive for convenience, novelty, and clear utility, but is strongly negative or cautious when authenticity, creator rights, trust, or deception are at stake.

    Response from Gemini (excerpt, mixed-negative)

    If you strip away the high-level policy debates and economic anxiety, the general public’s stated response to AI-generated art—images, music, movies, and literature—is highly mixed, but leaning increasingly negative and protective of human creativity.

    While people love playing with the tools as novelties, the moment they switch from being creators to consumers, a distinct psychological shift occurs. Data from major public opinion studies (like Pew Research, Stanford HAI, and various consumer tracking surveys) highlight several fascinating, counterintuitive trend-lines regarding how the public perceives AI art. (bold emphasis in original)

    Response from Grok (excerpt, mixed-negative)

    Mixed, with a lean toward negative or skeptical once people know something is AI-generated—particularly for standalone or fully AI-created works—though curiosity and practical utility exist. Public impressions are nuanced: many appreciate the technology as a tool or for novelty/entertainment, but there’s consistent preference for human-created art, emotional depth tied to human experience, and transparency. Pure AI outputs often face backlash as “slop,” lacking authenticity. (bold emphasis in original)

    If even AI programs reflect this skepticism, that’s big.Even an AI skeptic like Stephen sees its use in aggregate “polls.”Anyone claiming optimism about AI is logically bound to hear this.Apart from AI is anecdotal evidence. Few fans want gen-AI stuff.Right now, fans are praising films with practical, human-made art.They like the indie-horror movies and Project Hail Mary, no AI.And they love the new Spider-Man trailer with suits and shadows!Some makers boast AI will save time and bypass the big gates.But if fans don’t like that “slop,” the maker simply indulges himself.That’s fine for personal enjoyment but not for real service to others.We’ve already seen this with bad Christian human-made stories.If we’re practical, why we intentionally clash with the market?Even if fans want to make AI slop, they do not want others’ AI slop.And if we’re idealistic, why make inhuman slop for human souls?We lose all high ground at claiming to be more virtuous and godly.We would lose all the how-it’s-made stories behind the stories.Remember that whole AI-generated-actress thing? Flash in a pan.But people love the deeply human Tom Holland (who’s wise on AI!).Not only that, we’ll be wildly and foolishly off documented trends.There may be a place for gen-AI content, in memes or political ads.In other words, this stuff is disposable “art.” Yet it will not last.If we want to save today’s culture, gen-AI is certainly no savior.And if we want to grow and train others, AI could become a villain.Com stationTop question for listenersAs a fan, how do you feel when you learn any “art” is generated?The Adaptation Stationmaster replied to episode 317:

    It’s actually pretty rare for me to mourn when a good TV show ends. I feel like too many of them go on too long past their peak because they’re popular. It’s kind of nice to see them decide to go out on a high note instead.

    One Guild hero (and his wife) grieve over Star Wars:

    My wife and I had just seen the second third Star Wars sequel. I didn’t like it, but she was devastated. Star Wars wasn’t just a story she appreciated. It was part of the tapestry of her life, woven into some of her best memories. She had put so much of her time and love into that galaxy far, far away, and in that moment it felt like it was broken beyond repair, forever.

    Her restoration started with the books. Star Wars has one of the widest bodies of expanded universe lore, so even she could find something new to dig into. 


    It’s an odd place. In one sense, the universe is still destroyed. Star Wars has lost its place at the top of the pop culture pyramid, and may not ever take that place again. Through that, it might lack the largesse that allowed it become such an expansive universe in the first place. But, her place still existed.

    I think that’s where many of us will find ourselves in the coming days: wishing for the grand galaxies of yesterday, but finding only little pockets of warmth among the stars.

    Next on Fantastical Truth

    We’re recording this episode before Realm Makers! So once we return, we’ll have a better idea of what topics to cover. But in general, we can say that we’re pleased to have met or re-met so many Lorehaven fans at that expo. Lord willing, we’ll see you again in St. Louis next summer!

  • 318. How Can Christian Fathers Train Kids to Fight Dragons? | Lightraiders with James R. Hannibal

    318. How Can Christian Fathers Train Kids to Fight Dragons? | Lightraiders with James R. Hannibal

    · Fantastical Truth

    One of the sillier myths in our culture claims, “Most men don’t read.” Sometimes this is a real trend. Other times it’s wishful thinking because some folks don’t want to share stories that boys and men want to read. Still, we can join to equip Christian fathers and other mentors for their unique God-given responsibility—to train kids to fight dragons. And for that mission, author James R. Hannibal rides back into the studio.

    Episode sponsorsTwist of Time by Tricia Goyer and Nathan GoyerRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Author MediaDescendant PublishingMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new reviews and articlesSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildQuotes and notesLightraiders year 2: Crowdfunding campaignYes, Men and Boys Will Read—If You Give Them the Right BooksIntro: James R. Hannibal

    Former stealth pilot James R. Hannibal is no stranger to secrets and adventure. He has been shot at, locked up by surface to air missiles, has hunted insurgents with drones, and was once chased by an armed terrorist down a winding German road. James is the Realm Award–winning author of the Lightraider Academy Trilogy series and a three-time winner of the Silver Falchion Award for Juvenile Fiction for his Section 13 series. He also stewards the discipleship learning adventure game Lightraiders.

    JamesRHannibal.com · Facebook · Instagram · X.com

    1. Lightraiders is being quietly re-forgedLife updates: Something brought James here—fate, destiny, a horse.How we can pray for the Hannibals and support Courser Media.Meanwhile, the original for-profit Lightraiders is now a nonprofit.Reasons for the change, especially for culture-changing Christians.2. Behold the goal of discipleship storytellingDragons roam the land. We must learn to combat these creatures.Christians do need “just for fun” creative works that entertain.Yet we also need fiction that teaches truth, beauty, and goodness.Parents need both kinds of stories to help train future warriors.3. The future of Lightraiders and beyondNew quests and crowdfunding goals for Year 2 of Lightraiders.After that, what’s next will depend on the nonprofit’s support level.Also, Classics Rebooted: sci-fi Around the World in Eighty Days!Do follow Courser Media, Lightraiders, and James R. Hannibal.Com stationTop question for listenersHow did mentors and fantastical stories train you to fight dragons?Lavay Byrd enjoyed ep. 316 with Rebecca P. Minor

    Hi, all! I was just listening to the podcast, and all your discussions really hit what I’ve been feeling towards the sad explosion of overly sexualized/”porn” romantasty or even considered “regular fantasy” populating bookstores, while books like Lord of the Rings or even Christian Fantasy being treated as an afterthought.

    Listening to you all discuss such a sad reality made me think of how “overly-sensationalized” books are basically harmful drugs that’s poisoning readers, more so among the teens and YA.

    I’m so glad to see writers like Rebecca P Minor and many others not only acknowledging the darkness for what it is, but also shining HOPE LIGHT and TRUTH that always overcome darkness through story. I also agree that we need more real characters with flaws and struggles, making choices both dark and good, while opening up a path for grace and redemption.

    Next on Fantastical Truth

    Our next episode will release after Realm Makers. So at this point, we haven’t yet planned it! Perhaps you’ll have an amazing idea. Or maybe we’ll catch some trend or topic at the Expo that we never would have considered. Either way, we hope to see you next week in St. Louis.

  • 317. When Do Fans Mourn the Death of Beloved Sci-Fi Stories?

    317. When Do Fans Mourn the Death of Beloved Sci-Fi Stories?

    · Fantastical Truth

    This week we wanted to explore 1980s fantasy. But sometimes it’s hard to recover nostalgia when present-day villains keep killing our favorite heroes. Last week, the BBC announced Doctor Who is dead. For now. Rest in peace, Time Lord. Also these days, Stargate fans are rallying to hold Amazon to its original promises of restoring that universe with original creators, and stop the ‘Zon from some “modern audience” reboot. For these and fans of other Star franchises, how do we mourn?

    Episode sponsorsTwist of Time by Tricia Goyer and Nathan GoyerRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Author MediaDescendant PublishingMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new review, Maxine Justice: Public OffenderSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildQuotes and notes“June 3, 2026: Stargate cancelled, for the fourth and likely final time,” Joseph Mallozzi’s Weblog, June 3, 2026“June 6, 2026: Do Fans Matter?”, Joseph Mallozzi’s Weblog, June 6, 2026“Why Amazon canceling the new Stargate series is a mistake – and fans are trying to tell them,” Trent Moore at Static on the TV, June 6, 2026“Former ‘Dr. Who’ showrunner Russell T. Davies says women and transvestites should be over-represented in creative writing until ‘things are balanced,’ even if it takes 100 years.” See this June 10 X.com post @BreitbartNews with video of original Davies interview.“Save Stargate with Martin Gero,” Change.org petition“Lego’s latest design research: what girls want,” Reena Jana at ZDNet.com, Dec. 19, 20111. Doctor Who destroyed by Russell T. DaviesBBC, June 10: “BBC cancels Doctor Who Christmas special and Russell T Davies announces exit,” absolutely predictable end.Back in 2005, Davies revived Doctor Who serials on television.The series had “politically correct” moments, yet great writing.Writer Steven Moffat took over. The show got big. Then declined.In the late 2010s, political leftists demanded Doctor WhoA lackluster showrunner took over. Fans rejected a gender-swap.Davies returned a political omnicause monster. He killed the Doctor.2. Amazon rejects a fan-centered StargateVariety, June 2: “‘Stargate’ TV Series From Martin Gero Not Moving Forward at Amazon (EXCLUSIVE),” and fans were outraged.Original creators were on board, per the Nov. 2025 announcement.Now they join fans opposing this seeming ridiculous double-back.Amazon may want a “modern audience” show, not original fans.This is a universe more impossible than any sci-fi scenario.That’s not how you grow a fanbase ever. True fans will grow it.Stephen finds this similar to #ReleaseTheSnyderCut. He’s drawn in!3. Star Trek/Wars still struggle to surviveWe saved this for last because fans everywhere rightly lament.Since our last episode on the topic, we’ve seen major updates.Mandalorian and Grogu bombed. Starfleet Academy was axed.Technically both franchises flounder ahead with illusory intent.Kathleen Kennedy is finally leaving Lucasfilm, owned by Disney.Star Trek showrunner Robert Kurtzman is likely next to go.Corporations aren’t evil. But inhuman corporatism is parasitic.This “mind of metal and wheels” has ruined stories for Christians.But now the Christians are improving. These stories are decaying.We really can’t pretend “popular culture” is just neutral ground.Activists do want to kill these stories and replace them with others.To speak truth, we should acknowledge the justifiable backlash.And then we mourn their deaths. But not as those without hope.After all, the results could be worse. What if the hijacking worked?Even non-Christian fans saw through the trick. And they said no.The “market” did its job, perhaps thanks to God’s common grace.It’s nearly like the Law rightly punishing violators. It is necessary.Let them suffer the results. Maybe repent. But retreat in disgrace.And if possible, may better storytellers rise up to restore worlds.Until then, let great story-worlds like Doctor Who rest in peace.Com stationTop question for listenersHow do you grieve the loss of fantastical stories you once loved?Next on Fantastical Truth

    One of the sillier myths in our culture is that “Most men don’t read.” Sometimes this is a real trend. Other times it’s wishful thinking because some creators don’t want to make stories that celebrate boys and men. Still, we can look to fathers and mentors to train younger men, not just to love truth, but to love fantastical stories that honor truth. Just in time for the next stage of the Lightraiders tabletop game system, pilot and author James R. Hannibal returns to the studio to help fight dragons.

  • 316. What if An Elf Lost Her Dream-Come-True? | The Rending Cauldron with Rebecca P. Minor

    316. What if An Elf Lost Her Dream-Come-True? | The Rending Cauldron with Rebecca P. Minor

    · Fantastical Truth

    What if the wicked villains did conquer the elves? And what if a young elf-maiden was forced to carry the offspring of one of the invaders? That’s the new novel The Rending Cauldron, just brewed by fantasy author and Realm Makers president Rebecca P. Minor. Today, Becky joins us in the studio to explore tough topics, dark drama, and the expanding worlds of Christian-made fantastical fiction.

    Episode sponsorsAll That Glows by Lauren SmythRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Author MediaDescendant PublishingMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new review of DarkendSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildBackstory: Rebecca P. Minor

    Rebecca P. Minor writes sword-and-sorcery fantasy across The Windrider Saga and The Risen Age Archive series. As president of Realm Makers, she also joins her husband Scott helping other fantasy and science fiction writers create God-honoring stories. The Minors have three geeky sons. Now in their empty nest season, they’re seeking ways to further the Realm Makers mission while also tending to their roles as the servants to a couple of spoiled cats.

    Instagram: @‌rebeccapminorFacebook: @‌rebeccapminor1. From faith to Realm Makers to snarky elvesRebecca’s testimony, even early work at the pre-Lorehaven blog.Some quick notes on the founding and growth of Realm Makers.More about The Windrider Saga and The Risen Age Archive series.2. From snarky elves to complex fantasyImages and ideas that led to The Rending Cauldron’s premise.Why this new novel is more appropriate for grown-up readers.Early responses from readers and a guide to complex stories.3. Forging a deeper Christian-made fantasyStories can avoid politics, but wrestle with pre-political moralities.They can go beyond jargon and apply crises to realistic people.And not every story is for everyone. Readers can help each other.Com stationTop question for listenersWho is your favorite fictional elf?What is your favorite thematically complex story?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Some fans love the new He-Man movie. Others may not care so much, especially if they didn’t grow up in the 1980s. But no matter your age, fantasy franchises from that decade have shaped the creative worlds we know today. How can Christians look back on this era with discernment and appreciation for good nostalgia?

  • 315. How Do Incensepunk Stories Imagine the Church’s Future?

    315. How Do Incensepunk Stories Imagine the Church’s Future?

    · Fantastical Truth

    So much sci-fi likes to imagine that humans survive for centuries with some knowledge of classic literature, music, and cultural memory—everything except our religious beliefs. But today we explore a new sci-fi subgenre that dares to suggest the opposite. Faithful priests and other religious heroes of the future may not be wicked villains. In fact, they may be kind of awesome—and potentially fight in powerful mech armor. What is this subgenre some creators call incensepunk?[1. Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash.]

    Episode sponsorsAll That Glows by Lauren SmythRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Author MediaDescendant PublishingMission updateNew at Lorehaven: Stephen is on break for the annual Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference; welcome to any new listeners he met while teaching about fantastical stories thereNow we’re getting ready for Realm Makers. More on that soon.Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildConcession standStephen and Zack are Protestants, and yet often enjoy fellowship with Catholic friends.Many creators of fantastical fiction, such as J.R.R. Tolkien, come from these other traditions.So we wanted to speak with today’s Catholic creators of fantastical stories.We’ll be joined today by the staff of Incensepunk MagazineThey promise “High tech, high church… science fiction that envisions a future where faith is a living part of culture.”Backstories: Incensepunk staffJon James, editor-in-chief

    Jon’s work has been published in the Listen: the Sound of Fear anthology, the Killer Queen comics anthology, Recompose Journal, Theme of Absence, and Rehumanize International. His hobbies are as multifarious as the genres he writes in.

    Follow him: Twitter, bsky, Substack, Website

    Yuval Kordov, developmental editor

    Yuval Kordov is a chronically creative nerd, tech professional, husband, and father to two amazing girls. Over the course of his random life, he has been a radio show DJ, produced experimental electronic music, created the world of Dark LegaciesÂź, and built custom mechs with LEGOÂź bricks.

    Follow him: Twitter, bsky, Substack, Website

    Andrew Gillsmith | Marketing Director

    Andrew Gillsmith is a science fiction writer living in St. Louis, Missouri. He is the author of Our Lady of the Artilects, the Deserted Vineyard series, the Planet Gallywood series, and The Jerusalem Passage. He currently works in publisher development in the programmatic advertising space. He is married to Cheryl and has two young sons, a Great Dane, and a pet rat named Reggie.

    Follow him: Twitter, Substack

    1. Who built the Roman sci-fi roadsExploring foundational sci-fi and fantasy stories from Catholic authors

    “What we call the Catholic novel isn’t necessarily about a Christianized or catholicized world, but simply…one in which the truth as Christians know it has been used as a light to see the world by.”

    —Flannery O’Connor

    2. How the Roman sci-fi road is being rebuiltWhat Incensepunk does differently than secular, Protestant, or even other Catholic authors

    “Incensepunk is, at its core, a genre of longing. It desires a world in which traditional faiths and churches play a major role in society. Incensepunk extrapolates Byzantine and Gothic architecture styles into a modern world of skyscrapers and globalization. However, it is not regressive. It doesn’t view the past as good and the present as wicked and depraved. Instead, it tries to envision what the world could look like if faith and society were more integrated.”

    —from the Incensepunk Manifesto

    3. Future directions for the Roman sci-fi roadHow the future is religious

    “Artificial intelligences do not undergo experiences, do not possess a body, do not feel joy or pain, do not mature through relationships, and do not know from within what love, work, friendship or responsibility mean. Nor do they have a moral conscience, since they do not judge good and evil, grasp the ultimate meaning of situations, or bear responsibility for consequences. They may imitate or even simulate, but they do not understand what they produce, for they lack the affective, relational, and spiritual perspective through which human beings grow in wisdom.”

    —Pope Leo XIV on X.com

    Com stationTop question for listenersWhat is your favorite fantastical story featuring a Catholic character?From Victor DiGiovanni in response to Ep. 313: Should Christian-Made Stories Evangelize Nonbelievers?

    I love that we are in an era of Christian media to where a single book or movie or TV show doesn’t have to accomplish all the goals of Christian media. It always seemed that a “Christian book” or film HAD to have a very straightforward call to action.

    Next on Fantastical Truth

    What if the wicked villains did conquer the elves? And what if a young elf-maiden was forced to carry the offspring of one of the invaders? That’s the new novel The Rending Cauldron, just brewed by fantasy author and Realm Makers co-founder Rebecca P. Minor. Next week, Becky joins us in the studio to explore tough topics, dark drama, and the expanding worlds of Christian-made fantastical fiction.

  • 314. How Can Your Family Read Better Fantastical Novels This Summer?

    314. How Can Your Family Read Better Fantastical Novels This Summer?

    · Fantastical Truth

    Summer has returned. That often brings seasonal vacations that give you downtime in a car or airplane, maybe on a nice beach somewhere. You already know that’s a great opportunity to catch up on reading. So what are some tips and tricks to refocus on reading, finding the best fantastical novels and gaining the most from these worlds?

    Episode sponsorsAll that Glows by Lauren SmythRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Author MediaThe Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. HodderMission updateNew at Lorehaven: reviews have entered a pre-summer hiatusUse the super Library search to find your family’s next favoriteSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild1. Value quality books over quantity of books.Alas, I can’t make this year’s FPEA with Realm Makers Bookstore.But if I had, I’d have heard this line repeated: “My kid reads fast!”This is of course a great problem to have in homeschool families.Many want books “without agenda,” that is, obvious bad ideas.Yet fewer parents ask for books “without ugly,” that is, excellent.In some cases, this may feel like a luxury belief. Kids may not care.Many kids, for example, will read at scale—good books and bad.When I was a late teenager, I began learning some books are ugly.My first truly bad novel was [Title Redacted] by [Author Redacted].But in my family, I had to learn a “language” for describing this.I was helped by reading newspaper reviews of books and films.Then later, early 90s internet taught me better (and bad) reviews.The Pop Culture Parent shares some guides for evaluating beauty.Yet one clear sign—the book asks questions leading you to Jesus.That’s why we host the Lorehaven Library and review some titles.2. Still, focus on reading many quality books!Stephen has a unique struggle: holding onto pleasure reading.As publisher of Lorehaven, it’s hard to read without some “goal”!But read we must, “for its own sake,” that is, for our Author’s sake.Still, as we age, perhaps every book gains more “practical” value.Stephen often hyper-schedules every working and resting day.This seems a great way to set goals. “The calendar made me do it.”And then, five or fifteen minutes in, momentum alone takes over.You may also need to turn off your phone or use “airplane mode.”Stephen keeps it on, but keeps all social-media notifications muted.Distracted by chatter? Try a free white-noise generator (or an app).Kindles and other devices also help with distraction-free reading.Don’t forget classic printed books. There’s nothing like real pages!3. Join other readers to share great novels.Obviously your family and friends can be your first fellow readers.Ask your kids what they’re reading, and share what you read too!Take natural interest in their stories, the ideas, and what they love.Stephen’s siblings and him often joined in reading and even writing.Now, he and his wife Lacy frequently read, often aloud, with voices.If possible, join (or start?) physical book clubs at your local church.Focus on quality, classic, and/or Christian-made fantastical titles.Sure, you might use sites or social media to find matching books.Stephen isn’t sure that AI (or AI-driven apps) prove best for this.Lorehaven features monthly book quests to help us read together.We believe humans, made in Christ’s image, can best find books.Subscribe free to join the Guild and talk about all manner of titles.Com stationTop question for listenersWhat are your top tricks for reading the best and most books?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Now that Zack and Stephen are taking turns, next week’s episode just might cover a new genre that dares to suggest faithful priests and other religious heroes of the future may not be (gasp) wicked villains. In fact, they may be kind of awesome—and potentially wear powerful mech armor. What is this subgenre some creators call incensepunk?

  • 313. Should Christian-Made Stories Evangelize Nonbelievers?

    313. Should Christian-Made Stories Evangelize Nonbelievers?

    · Fantastical Truth

    On May 14, we’ve had one Ascension Day, yes.[1. Photo by Chase Kennedy on Unsplash.] What about second Ascension Day (May 21)? In either case, Ascension Day marks the lesser-known sequel to Easter Sunday, honoring the time when Jesus Christ returned to Heaven. His disciples recorded His famous last words, including His command: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” How does this Great Commission affect our fantastical stories?

    Episode sponsorsAll that Glows by Lauren SmythRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Author MediaThe Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. HodderMission updateNew at Lorehaven: newly upgraded Library book searchSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild1. Let’s define the Great Commission.

    Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

    —Matthew 28:16–20, ESV

    This command is first for Christ’s disciples and then all Christians.It’s not just about getting people saved but a lifelong faith practice.This starts at home but expands, including baptism and teaching.It doesn’t overrule orders to live simply, work hard, raise families.It doesn’t overrule God’s first “commission,” the Creation Mandate.In fact, this helps restore people to Jesus so we can do that calling.2. How do some stories try to act this out?In the past, evangelical Christian fiction focuses on nonbelievers.They want to tell good stories, yes, but also get the reader saved.Sometimes the hero is a nonbeliever forced to confront faith issues.In fantasy, we met Jesus-allegories or find prayer is a weapon.In sci-fi, we learned aliens are real (demons) and Jesus is better.Other stories have featured “backslidden” people who need faith.And then other stories push back with more subtle approaches.The rise of YA brings simpler themes, often identity and courage.Romantasy may reduce “gospel” content, favoring virtues and love.Before: overt gospel about God. After: subtle morals about us.In either case, the original “evangelical” impulse may remain.Authors understandably want to do more than entertain readers.3. Great stories reflect all God’s commands.It’s important to note differences between these two commands.So far as we know, the Creation Mandate is forever, an eternal call.The Great Commission is temporary . It won’t be around forever.This doesn’t make the Mandate more important. It does balance.That’s why the apostles spoke often about families and hard work.We have seen older novels that valued “message” over excellence.If we feel guilty over not witnessing, we may want to compensate.A novel may make us feel we’ve “evangelized” or helped others.But sometimes, even then, novels like that don’t fulfill that goal.Stephen enjoys novels that can reflect both these high callings.And yet only the Mandate tells creators to make great stories.My own novel does star space missionaries, yet has bigger ideas.The point isn’t “share the gospel.” It’s, “Here’s how that can look.”And then, “What are the costs to the human heroes who do this?”That story is mainly for Christian readers. Others may not get it.That’s okay. In my view, we need more stories “inside the club.”And yet Christians can bless nonbelievers just with great stories.They can reflect biblical truth, even gospel, yet have other goals.These can serve as pre-evangelism, or common grace for them.“Common grace” means the ways God blesses even nonbelievers.He sends rain and sunshine, good government, widespread virtue.And He enables good culture-making in a sinful world to bless us.Great stories, even if they don’t “evangelize,” can help evangelists.And either way, we follow both commands and glorify our Creator.Com stationTop question for listenersDid a great novel help you get saved? Or draw closer to Jesus?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Summer has returned. That often brings seasonal vacations that give you downtime in a car or airplane, maybe on a nice beach somewhere. You already know that’s a great opportunity to catch up on reading. So what are some tips and tricks to refocus on reading, finding the best fantastical novels and gaining the most from these worlds?

  • 312. Why Do Christians Believe These Top Seven Myths About Heaven?

    312. Why Do Christians Believe These Top Seven Myths About Heaven?

    · Fantastical Truth

    This week marks Ascension Day, May 14![1. Photo by Timo Volz on Unsplash.] So let’s rise to that occasion and survey at least seven notions about that place to which Jesus ascended—Heaven. Is it true that Heaven is only “spiritual”? Or that we can’t know about Heaven is like, so it’s best we not think much about that unchanging, un-earthly or very-earthly dimension where “time shall be no more” and where basically good people go? We’ll do our best to bypass modern myth and search the only certain Source.

    Episode sponsorsAll that Glows by Lauren SmythRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Novel MarketingThe Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. HodderMission updateNew at Lorehaven: weekly reviews, recent website upgradesSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildConcession standConcession: Randy Alcorn just released a similar article last week.By intention, I didn’t read the article, or my own previous material.There’s a chance some of my myths (in no special order) overlap.I do credit Alcorn’s Heaven (2004) as a formative influence.Yet here I’ll attempt to base my reasons straight on Scripture.In the past I’ve rankled some folks with strange afterlife ideas.Yet in the last 20 years more people have “discovered” New Earth.1. Heaven is only a “spiritual” place.This usually comes not from teaching, but memes and impressions.Some of us also recall the phrase “spiritual body” (1 Cor. 15:44).Since God is Spirit (John 4:24), isn’t this the same kind of spirit?Won’t this mean we’ll have no body, becoming intangible, ghostly?It’s true that God the Father is spirit, without a body. Yet not Jesus.All resurrection ideas are based on His physical/spiritual nature.Yes, Heaven today is for souls separated from bodies (2 Cor. 5).It won’t stay that way after the final resurrection Jesus promises.Paul in 1 Cor. 15 defines “spiritual body” as Spirit-powered body.And in 2 Cor. 5 he promises we will be “further clothed,” not naked.2. It’s best not to think about Heaven.This too is not taught in Scripture, except from misquoted verses.1 Cor. 2:9, “what no eye has seen
” doesn’t truly command this.Even if this were about Heaven, it never discourages imagination.But it isn’t anyway. It’s about “things God has revealed” (verse 10).Scripture’s images encourage, not suppress truthful imagination.I’m not sure why else God would inspire such fantastical imagery.With biblical foundation, it’s impossible to think “too much” on this.See also: nonsense about “being so heavenly minded
” Bad logic.Being biblically “heavenly minded” helps us love “earthly good.”We avoid that gnostic impulse the slogan was meant to counter.3. “Time shall be no more” in Heaven.People really do assume this phrase comes from the Bible.It’s actually from the hymn “When the Roll is Called Up Yonder.”That’s a partial quote from Rev. 10:6 (KJV), warning that time is up.But the phrase got loose and reinforces vague, “spiritoid” images.Maybe we could say time runs different in today’s Heaven.Revelation describes events in sequence, as Heaven watches.It references waiting martyrs (Rev. 6:11) and “half an hour” (8:1).In either case, Scripture never implies time/matter has gone evil.A possible rule: we need special proof for “X won’t be in Heaven.”Unless the Bible says, don’t assume that thing won’t last forever.4. Basically good people go to Heaven.We hear this all the time, in pop culture, funerals, our own doubts.A lot of time this myth isn’t specifically taught, only caught.But I did hear a Mormon apologist Jacob Hansen teaching this.In his view, basically only Hitler or “sons of perdition” go to Hell.This notion will result in doctrine and fiction with bad views of evil.Villains will become more “misunderstood” in reality and in stories.Scripture never teaches this. Hell is real. Not all go to Heaven.And if pagans saw Heaven correctly, they wouldn’t want to anyway.Imagine an eternity of worshiping King Jesus in everything we do.There can by definition be no perfect world apart from His reign.5. Today’s Heaven looks like Earth.Some years ago, we saw many books about “heaven tourism.”One or two got discredited. One or two got made into movies.Sometimes adults wrote the tell-all. But one little boy glimpsed it(?).Whether or not they had visions, they do reinforce some myths.For example, one book spoke of Heaven in many earthly terms.On principle, I disagree—but not because earthliness is bad.Rather, it’s premature. Heaven hasn’t yet united with Earth (Rev. 21).Similarly, I hear Christians talking about believers now resurrected.But unless they have their bodies back, resurrection is still future!Heaven is fantastic now. Next comes the even better sequel.6. We can’t know what Heaven is like.Even if God never promised New Earth, Heaven would be great.You get past death and suffering. You get to be with Jesus Christ.You get to reunite with believing family, saints, heroes, and angels.And even as you wait (accelerated time?) there are things to do!Angels in Heaven now worship God all the time. What an epic sight.You might get to witness a higher view of events playing on Earth.And I’m sure we begin getting answers to many of our questions.But also, see Revelation 6. Martyrs are still waiting for what’s next.In fact, they know about terrible things and want God’s vengeance.They get no “memory wipe,” only the start of greater perspective.7. Heaven could never unite with Earth.Reckless words about Earth and bodies devalues God’s creation.See: “that’s just her shell” or “she’ll never see him on this Earth.”In fact, God promised she’ll get back that body and he’ll be back.Nothing in Scripture condemns our body or the material world.It doesn’t endorse myths like “the Earth gets forever destroyed.”In fact, 2 Peter 3 speaks in terms of fire that refines our planet.Isaiah 60, 65-66 and Rev. 21 promise a Heaven/Earth reunion.The word “new” doesn’t negate those nouns’ ordinary meanings.Heaven is where God dwells. Earth is where we would have dwelt.In this future God and Man all dwell together in one world (Rev. 21)!Com stationTop question for listenersWhat do you long for most in Heaven or the future New Heavens?April wrote this for episode 303 about overseas tales:

    K-dramas may have romantic clichĂ©s just like anime or manga, but they handle them better than many Western media. It’s a slow build-up, less sexualized, and focuses on emotions, sacrifice, and getting to know the other person, rather than how quickly you can get two attractive people into bed or make them kiss. Western romance is more about lust these days and that’s because it has such a bad reputation as a genre, while the old-fashioned romance of classic books is still considered respectable literature.

    Next on Fantastical Truth

    This Thursday, some Christians will observe Ascension Day. That’s the lesser-known sequel to Easter Sunday, honoring the time when Jesus Christ returned to Heaven. His disciples recorded His famous last words, including His command: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” How does this Great Commission affect our fantastical stories?

  • 311. How Do Great Stories Help Us Return to Factory Settings?

    311. How Do Great Stories Help Us Return to Factory Settings?

    · Fantastical Truth

    Pragmata released to gaming consoles April 17. The new Capcom title promptly sold 1 million copies by its first weekend and provoked much discourse from fans and some haters. Why the hate? Because players everywhere, especially men, loved the key concept of an outer space soldier teaming up with a little android girl to fight robo-monsters. Gamers declared they would do anything to protect Diana. How do these stories help humans remember to restore our “factory settings”?

    Episode sponsorsAll that Glows by Lauren SmythRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoAuthor Update from Novel MarketingThe Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. HodderMission updateNew at Lorehaven: weekly reviews, some website upgradesSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildNew book quest for Mortal Queens by Victoria McCombs1. The tale of a mecha-man and robo-girlCapcom announced Pragmata nearly six years ago (June 2020).The game was later delayed, with sporadic, apologetic teasers.The pitch? Space marine finds orphaned android girl in moonbase.They team up to fight rogue robots in hopes of returning to Earth.Before it even released, Reddit banned one channel (TheGamer).They said some people were sexualizing the little robot girl, Diana.Which is unfortunately expected, and horrifying. More on this later.Last month, the final trailer arrived, and the game itself (April 17).After release, some men said they felt their “dad senses” awaken.

    You all HATE escort missions

    But make that NPC a cute kid, and suddenly you’ll burn the whole world down for them

    Japan’s population is crashing. Capcom realized people wouldn’t listen to government mandates to reproduce, so they started making “Parent Simulators”

    Pragmata feels like a psyop to make you want to have kids, a propaganda disguised as a game to boost the birth rates. And honestly it’s awesome.

    The timeline is full of people saying Diana makes them want to start a real family. I love that we really fell for it.

    —@‌TheRooster on X.com, April 20

    Female players were also positively affected by Diana’s cuteness.In response, critics blasted this positive response as closeted sin.They saw nothing but evil motives in the male players’ enjoyment.Single men, actual dads, and uncles alike said they’d die for Diana.And the game’s fans began referring to human “factory settings.”2. What we mean by saying ‘factory settings’Stephen hasn’t yet played Pragmata but wants to. Great reviews.It turns out the idea of “factory settings” has great foundations.This is just a pop-culture-y, meme-y way to say “human purpose.”It’s a rebuttal to false purposes, e.g. “get rich” or “be an activist.”In other words, the “chief end of man.” Let’s define this carefully.In the biblical view, our “chief end” is to glorify and enjoy God.To the Christian, our “chief end” is not to protect the innocent.Our chief end isn’t even getting married and having families.After all, in a sinful world, not everyone is blessed with this gift.But 
 that doesn’t mean we deny that original human purpose.It goes back to Genesis 1:27-28, God’s first command to people.We worship Him first by acts of creation, including marriage/family.This is our “factory setting.” By recalling the action, we get close.The next step is to rediscover that original motive: to glorify God.3.How these ‘factory settings’ can change usStephen’s response is different. He’s not been blessed with kids.Even those who are blessed with kids have rough family situations.And of course, as some critics say, the game shows only positives.Diana isn’t a real child, but a robot. (We don’t know spoilers here.)Real small children have sinful natures and many challenges.And yet
 can’t a game “simulate” these with health and death?You do “die” and respawn many times in a game, leveling up.It’s a direct and often numbers-based “parable” illustrating reality.That’s probably why many men love tabletop games and LitRPG.This is not just a psychological trick. Not just a “dopamine hack.”We may feel the same about beauty, knowing we’re made for more.To capture this longing, C.S. Lewis used the German sehnsucht.We could recall this longing, but let it stay in the world of fiction.Or else “translate” this (right or wrong) to our own human callings.But we also hope gamers will follow through on marriage/parenting.Not just to recover birth rates. Not just for high cultural influence.The purpose of any creation—even of people—is to glorify Christ.Com stationTop question for listenersWhen did a simple story remind you of your purpose as a person?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Next week marks Ascension Day, May 14! So let’s rise to that occasion and survey at least seven notions about that place to which Jesus ascended—Heaven. Is it true that Heaven is only “spiritual”? Or that we can’t know about Heaven is like, so it’s best we not think much about that unchanging, un-earthly or very-earthly dimension where “time shall be no more” and where basically good people go? We’ll do our best to bypass modern myth and search the only certain Source.

  • 310. Why Do Young Men Crave LitRPG Action Adventures? | with Jonathan Shuerger

    310. Why Do Young Men Crave LitRPG Action Adventures? | with Jonathan Shuerger

    · Fantastical Truth

    You’ve likely met some Christians who emphasize safety for children rather than preparing them for spiritual conflict. That’s why some more genteel-churchy responses to pop culture have said “it’s useless” or else “stay away” from stories like Harry Potter, Doom, or Dungeons and Dragons. So is it any wonder that a top-selling subgenre among young male readers is LitRPG, often with totally epic and jacked soldier good guys (maybe with mech suits) who slay evil aliens and demons?

    Episode sponsorsPerplexity by Chawna SchroederRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoLand of Giants by Laurie ChristineWisdom and Wonder Conference & ExpoMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new review of Wavemaker by F. C. ShultzComing in early May: major site upgrades, especially with searchSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildBackstory: Jonathan Shuerger

    Jonathan Shuerger is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who brings authenticity, faith, and a love of story to every page. His writing is marked by military precision, theological depth, and cinematic imagination. He’s the author of Devil Dog: A Marine vs. Hell, available on Royal Road. Find all his works at JonathanShuerger.com.

    1. Warrior culture v. safety cultureWhy we should train people for battle.The martial art of Jiu Jitsu appeals to people.Warrior culture seems to be dying.Safetyism seems to be taking over.2. How Christian culture responds to war storiesSome critics claim violent stories cause us to be violent.What kinds of battles do we expect ourselves (or our kids) to face?3. How young men long to level upExploring the quests young men want to take.Jonathan’s new LitRPT book Devil Dog:“A Marine wakes up in Hell. He’s confused by two things: he’s part of a Game where demons level themselves up, and he’s infused with holy energy in defiance of every infernal law. Time to regroup.”Com stationTop question for listenersWhat’s your favorite military story, whether from LitRPG or another genre?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Pragmata released to gaming consoles April 17. The new Capcom title promptly sold 1 million copies by its first weekend and provoked much discourse from fans and some haters. Why the gate? Because players everywhere, especially men, loved the key concept of an outer space soldier teaming up with a little android girl to fight robo-monsters. Gamers declared they would do anything to protect Diana. How does these stories help humans remember to restore our “factory settings”?

  • 309. Why Do Many Astronauts Fly Their Faith Out of This World?

    309. Why Do Many Astronauts Fly Their Faith Out of This World?

    · Fantastical Truth

    “We are now approaching lunar sunrise, and for all the people back on Earth, the crew of Apollo 8 has a message that we would like to send to you. “‘In the beginning, God created the Heaven and the Earth. And the Earth was without form and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters, and God said, “Let there be light.” And there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good, and God divided the light from the darkness.’”

    Episode sponsorsThe Star-Blessed by Angie DickinsonRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoLand of Giants by Laurie ChristineWisdom and Wonder Conference & ExpoMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new reviews, upcoming super searchSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildPlus the Lorehaven Authorship to help terraform Christian fantasyStephen heads to Houston to hype space missions April 25 at Houston Christian University’s Wisdom & Wonder Conference

    The crew of Apollo 8 in 1968 (NASA)

    1. Past astronauts paid tribute to ChristianityDec. 24, 1968: Apollo 8’s crew was the very first to orbit the Moon.These astronauts were Bill Anders, Jim Lovell, and Frank Borman.And they read from Gen. 1:1-10 (in the King James Version).But the Judeo-Christian roots of NASA go even deeper.General ideas: this is a generation still shaped by World War II.Some call this “positive world,” when churches/faith were in vogue.So was the actual gospel, co-mingled with “cultural Christianity.”Rocket engineer Wernher von Braun was one confessing Christian.These men did not just affirm Jesus as Savior but God as Creator.

    “And God said, ‘Let the waters under the Heavens be gathered together into one place. And let the dry land appear.’ And it was so. And God called the dry land Earth. And the gathering together of the waters called he seas. And God saw that it was good.” And from the crew of Apollo 8, we close with good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas and God bless all of you—all of you on the good Earth.

    Apollo 8 Commander Frank Borman, Dec. 24, 1968

    Many early astronauts publicly acknowledged Christ or religion.Among these were Captain Jim Lovell and Col. Buzz Aldrin.Aldrin, a Presbyterian, took a secret Communion on the Moon.During a pre-splashdown broadcast, he also read Psalm 8:3-4:

    “When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou has ordained; What is man that thou art mindful of him? And the Son of Man, that thou visitest him?”

    According to a 2019 Catholic Sun article:

    It turns out Aldrin’s religious faith is not an anomaly. In fact, the 29 astronauts who visited the moon during the Apollo program were a generally religious cohort. According to NASA, 23 were Protestant and six Catholic, with a high proportion of them serving as church leaders in their congregations.

    The astronauts didn’t talk publicly about their faith very much, but that’s largely because NASA started clamping down on public expressions of faith after the famous Christmas Eve Bible reading of Apollo 8, the first manned mission to the moon.

    So we can’t ignore these 1960s-era acts of culture war.People didn’t just get bored or naturally tired of public faith.They got intimidated and silenced by angry atheistic activism.Not the same as “classic humanism” mixed into scienctific pursuits.That often has Christian-based virtue, just without God or Christ.Ultimately this deconstruction kills the “science” it claims to love.Which leads to present-day selection bias among astronaut heroes.

    Captain Victor Glover, pilot of Artemis II in 2026 (NASA)

    2. Present astronauts praise God, even Jesus“Good Earth.” Reading the Apollo 8 transcript, Stephen teared up.We’ve also heard that phrase recently repeated around Artemis II.Key point: you can’t get far off Earth without loving this good Earth.You need to love God’s creation, natural law, math, and science.And you must value knowledge, wisdom, adventure over comfort.Regardless of personal faith, you must acknowledge higher Good.This is what we saw most recently among Artemis IIAmong these, Captain Victor Glover is the most recently famous.You’ve likely seen his quotes circulating around social memes.In the Orion capsule named Integrity, Glover said this for Easter:

    I don’t have anything prepared. I think these observances are important. And as we are so far from Earth and looking back at the beauty of creation, I think for me, one of the really important personal perspectives that I have up here is I can really see Earth as one thing.

    When I read the Bible and I look at all of the amazing things that were done for us, who were created [to be]—you have this amazing place, this spaceship. You guys are talking to us because we’re in a spaceship really far from Earth. But you’re on a spaceship called Earth that was created to give us a place to live in the universe, in the cosmos.

    Maybe the distance we are from you makes you think what we’re doing is special. But we’re the same distance from you. And I’m trying to tell you—just trust me—you are special.

    In all of this emptiness—this is a whole bunch of nothing, this thing we call the universe—you have this oasis, this beautiful place that we get to exist together.

    I think, as we go into Easter Sunday, thinking about all the cultures all around the world, whether you celebrate it or not, whether you believe in God or not, this is an opportunity for us to remember where we are, who we are, and that we are the same thing, and that we’ve gotta get through this together.

    After returning, Glover shared similar thoughts to his neighborhood:

    Some of us have never met before and you know whose fault that is? Ours. So, let’s choose to do this. Let’s be this more. Let’s be neighbors. I don’t know if you heard me say it, but God told us to love Him with all that we are and love our neighbors as ourselves. I love you.

    This too went viral. And many people said, “He’s sharing gospel!”Back to our previous question: is this the gospel? Yes and no.It’s part of the gospel. But not the whole thing. And that’s okay.It’s okay to “preach” part of gospel if it’s part of the whole thing.And assuredly, Victor Glover knows and confesses the gospel.Source: this Focus on the Family Daily Citizen article (April 26, 2023):

    Glover is bold and candid about the importance of his Christian faith in his life – and how we all need to see ourselves as sinners in search of hope and help.

    “No matter how long we’ve been in this, whether you’re a preacher, an elder, or a deacon, brand new in your faith walk, we all need to be growing he told a Texas church audience last year. “We have a sin nature, and we need Jesus. Jesus is that bridge that spans sin.”

    Captain Barry “Butch” Wilmore retired from NASA in 2025. (NASA)

    Several other astronauts publicly confess Jesus as Lord and Savior.These include Col. Jeffrey Williams and General Charlie Duke.In 2025, Captain Barry “Butch” Wilmore was stuck aboard the ISS.He’s since retired and now enters the Christian conference circuit!

    Captain Wilmore retired from NASA on August 6, 2025, after an illustrious career spanning 25 years. He feels called to use his experiences as an astronaut and his passion for astronomy to share the good news of God’s Word. He joined fellow astronauts Colonel Jeffrey Williams and General Charlie Duke in speaking at the Astronaut Encounter, where the three shared their personal testimonies and incredible stories.

    Captain Barry Wilmore, Answers in Genesis bio, undated

    We can’t imagine the responsibility of practicing faith in this space.And yet we know just soaring about Earth declares God’s glory.Commander Reid Wiseman shared a similar story on April 16:

    When I got back on the on the ship—I’m not really a religious person—but there was just no other avenue for me to explain anything or to experience anything.

    So I asked for the chaplain on the Navy ship to just come visit us for a minute, and when that man walked in, I’d never met him before in my life. But I saw the cross on his collar, and I just broke down in tears. It’s very hard to fully grasp what we just went through.

    Not all astronauts are Christians. Not even if they speak of God.But they’re doing amazing work in God’s world for His good Earth.Jesus might say, “You are not far from the Kingdom” (Mark 12:34).3. Future astronauts need space for JesusAlready we see “moon joy” that atheism cannot logically justify.Moreover, Space Race 2.0 isn’t just trying to beat the enemy.This version truly seems to be built on more sustainable energy.At the very least it’s built on Christianity-derived humanism.And it’s based on hard work leading to merit and real achievement.If it’s infected by false humanism and Sexualityism, it will collapse.Navelgazeitis will blind us, unable to gaze upon God’s heavens.Astronauts can’t live on that stuff. They’d never get off ground.For their jobs, they can certainly subsist on Christian principles.Those will get them to the heavens, to moonbases, and to Mars.But to gain New Heaven and New Earth, we need Jesus personally!Com stationTop question for listenersHave you met faithful Christians working with a space program?Next on Fantastical Truth

    You’ve likely met some Christians who emphasize safety for children rather than preparing them for spiritual conflict. That’s why some more genteel-churchy responses to pop culture have said “it’s useless” or else “stay away” from stories like Harry Potter, Doom, or Dungeons and Dragons. So is it any wonder that a top-selling subgenre among young male readers is LitRPG, often with totally epic and jacked soldier good guys (maybe with mech suits) who slay evil aliens and demons?

  • 308. Why Do Worldwide Fans Love Japanese and Korean Stories?

    308. Why Do Worldwide Fans Love Japanese and Korean Stories?

    · Fantastical Truth

    In spring 2026, social media platform X field-tested a new feature. Thanks to AI advances, with little fanfare, we now have universal translators. And suddenly the “curse of Babel” was temporarily lifted. Americans, Japanese, and Koreans began sharing their love of foods, patriotism, and fantastical stories. But for decades already, people around the world have found the wonder of creativity from overseas—manga, anime, games, and music. Why do we love these stories?[1. Photo by Branden Skeli on Unsplash.]

    Episode sponsorsThe Star-Blessed by Angie DickinsonRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoLand of Giants by Laurie ChristineAbove the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen BurnettMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new reviews of Perplexity and SanctifiedSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild1. Today every story can become localizedTo recap: God made people originally to act as one human family.Sin broke those relationships (Gen. 3), leading to global corruption.God’s global Flood rebooted the world (Gen. 6-9). Generations later one humanity shared in evil. So He confused languages (Gen. 11).People now live with distinct cultures, all human yet divided.Pentecost showed a glorious reversal of this division (Acts 1-2).Radio and internet also shortened com distances between nations.Side effect: this makes us feel all crises are equally important to us.But, great benefit: this allows us to share in one another’s stories.Auto-translate is not new, but recently on X it became default.These “universal translators” with AI are erasing language barriers.Japanese and Americans bonded over shared food, music, culture.And now Koreans and others are joining the conversations.So far it’s wholesome and humanist (in the best possible way).People love their cultures most, and like others who do the same.Yet many fans have liked Japanese and Korean media for decades.2. Fans love Japanese manga, anime, musicZack spent much of his childhood spent inside Japanese-created fantasy worlds.Stephen grew up enjoying cartoons that turned out to be anime:The original 1980s Superbook biblical fiction series 1 and 2The lesser-known New Testament-focused The Flying HouseAll voiced by the English dub cast of Kimba the White LionMust credit televangelist Pat Roberton’s original CBN stationThey worked with Tatsunoko Production before anime was coolStephen has also grown to love Miyazaki films and newer anime.Manga makes half of graphic novel sales. Western comics rarely crack top ten.Lots more manga get produced into anime, so it’s a dual format appeal.American comics tend to focus on superhero reboots from DC or Marvel.Meanwhile, manga spans nearly every genre of fiction.Manga focuses on adventure and achievement, rather than vanity.Manga focused on craftsmanship and audience, not sociopolitical agendas.Japan has much less influence Christian, yet creators address biblical themes.Many of them are at least familiar with the Bible as literature.So you’ll get a Chrisitan missionary-focused plot arc in Rurouni KenshinOr late-breaking messiah motifs and a “pastor” character in One Piece.3. Fans also love K-dramas and K-popKorean-made fantastical stories are also taking the world by storm.Both our wives enjoy a Korean original export: K-dramas.Many of them are whole-hearted tropey, romantic-dramedy.And many have fantastical elements, like modernized mythology.Then of course there’s the music. Many K-pop artists loveBands like Stray Kids and A-Teez overtly tribute Western fantasy.Stray Kids teamed up with Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool for “Chick Chick Boom.”A-Teez has a whole post-dystopian dimension-jumping narrative.And recently, A-Teez’s song “NASA” got used in Artemis IIKorea has more evangelical Christian influence than Japan.That’s likely why K-Pop Demon Hunters felt almost Christian.Certainly the movie well portrayed fallen “demons” and human redemption.The Holy Spirit can take the Gospel across any language barrier.Many Christians think “speaking in tongues” was for apostles only, now fulfilled.Other thinks it’s a “private prayer language,” not actual languages spoken today.Either way, we have stories and technological tools that help bridge cultures.May the Lord use this to spread the best fantastical stories across the worldMay we share the gospel to “all tribes and peoples and languages” (Rev. 7:9).Com stationTop question for listenersWhat are your favorite fantastical stories from other lands?Next on Fantastical Truth

    The late Captain Jim Lovell aboard Apollo 8 read Genesis 1 from orbit on Christmas Day. Col. Buzz Aldrin aboard Apollo 11 took secret Communion on the Moon. Captain Butch Wilmore spent time on the International Space Station and will speak at next month’s Teach Them Diligently conference. More recently Captain Victor Glover aboard Artemis II, en route to a lunar flyby, shared pre-gospel thoughts about God’s wonderful creation of planet Earth. Why do so many astronauts and faithful staffers of NASA take their biblical beliefs out of this world?

  • 307. Can True Fans Bring Dead Franchises Back to Life?

    307. Can True Fans Bring Dead Franchises Back to Life?

    · Fantastical Truth

    Doctor Who is dead and not regenerating any time soon.[1. Photo by Krists Luhaers on Unsplash.] Star Wars is suspended in the bacta tank. Star Trek is redirecting all power to life support. Meanwhile, Netflix struggles to sing life into Narnia, bad philosophers stone Harry Potter, and goblins threaten to overrun all that was good in Middle-earth. But there were some who resisted. When studios keep killing great stories, could fans bring resurrection?

    Episode sponsorsThe Star-Blessed by Angie DickinsonRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoLand of Giants by Laurie ChristineAbove the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen BurnettMission updateNew review of Lightshed by Crystal D. GrantSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild1. Star Trek and Star Wars are on life supportStar Wars—everyone blames Disney, Kathleen Kennedy, streaming.And of course The Acolyte all but ended fan interest in that galaxy.Much ink has been spilled about that, so we needn’t do a remake.Star Trek—everyone blames Paramount, Alex Kurtzman, streaming.Recently even Project Hail Mary author Andy Weir called Trek bad.Weir later semi-apologized, but only for a seeming personal slight.And this just in: J.J. Abrams’ company is downsizing and moving.2. Fantasy lands get slain by corporate orcsRings of Power stumbles on, seeming to promise a “good orc” plot.Andy Serkis directs The Hunt for Gollum, a dubious “side quest.”Then came the big news that Stephen Colbert is writing another.This second side-quest movie hints at revisiting Fellowship events.As for Colbert, he’s arguably an agitator and has no fantasy credits.Meanwhile, no news is bad news re. Netflix’s “rock ‘n’ roll” Narnia.Some fans are more optimistic. We wish we could be, but cannot.3. Solution: fight joyously for stories you love“If you don’t like it, don’t watch it.” Fair. But it’s okay to criticize.Avoid the traps of “blackpilled” cynicism we mentioned last week.Great stories go on, launching from big studios or small creators.Even that trailer from Amazon/MGM’s He-Man looks refreshing!But don’t lose hope for big franchises either. They may yet return.Next for Ryan Gosling? Star Wars: Starfighter from Shawn Levy.New owners could restore Star Trek and DC. Let’s pray for them!Com stationTop question for listenersWhich dead or dying franchise would you love to see return to life?Next on Fantastical Truth

    In March 2026, social media platform X field-tested a new feature. Thanks to AI advances, with little fanfare, we now have universal translators. And suddenly the “curse of Babel” was temporarily lifted. Americans and Japanese conversed with joy about tasty barbecue, patriotism, and the stories we love. But for decades already, people around the world have found the wonder of Japanese-made fiction—manga, anime, games, and beyond. Why do we love these stories?

  • 306. Why Do Fiction Fans Fight Over ‘Optimism’ vs. ‘Realism’?

    306. Why Do Fiction Fans Fight Over ‘Optimism’ vs. ‘Realism’?

    · Fantastical Truth

    This month’s Project Hail Mary film is being praised as a fresh, thrilling sci-fi take that is wholesome and sincere. As expected, we’re seeing more fantastical fans cry out for stories that celebrate the human spirit. Why do we love these stories? And how do different fan trends, even across whole generations, keep swerving between positive portrayals and other stories that may be called “cynical”?

    Episode sponsorsThe Star-Blessed by Angie DickinsonRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoThe Hole-Man by Dan DaetzAbove the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen BurnettMission updateNew at Lorehaven: new boosted Library searchSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild1. Optimistic stories celebrate common graceStephen read the book back soon after its May 4, 2021, release.Don’t miss the audiobook read by narrator Ray “Darkseid” Porter.Right from the title, Project Hail Mary honors human will and spirit.Weir publicly eschewed inserting “the message” (leftist politics).It’s a deeply humanist story (and not necessarily in a bad way).Brett McCracken from TGC wrote that the film honors biblical virtues and “celebrates friendship, sacrifice, and self-giving love.”Some vote blue. Some red. But everyone loves Grace and Rocky.2. Cynical stories show sin—and to a faultIn response, many fans are freshly condemning cynical stories.These make a show of hopelessness, grimdark, nihilism, despair.But there are fewer of these obvious cynical stories in pop culture.Their problem isn’t “show sin at all.” Their problem is lack of virtue.Do note that some popular “optimistic” stories are just posers.They’re just as cynical about virtue, yet may offer false “syncerity.”One can almost see the memos. They’re trying to have/eat cake.3. Many great stories rightly reflect both“Realistic” stories aren’t always cynical, and “colorful” stories aren’t always optimistic; this is defined more by ideas than appearance.Earnest and optimistic stories can be noblebright and nobledark.In fact, Project Hail Mary (book and film) mixes both of these.Even God gets a friendly shoutout—a hint at the morality’s origin.Spoiler: Ryland is no hero. He’s effectively assaulted. That’s dark.But desperate times call for Grace. He becomes a hero. That’s light.These stories defeat both forced “syncerity” and cynical tales.Com stationTop question for listenersWhat do you love about Project Hail Mary and optimistic stories?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Uh-oh. That big new trailer from that big studio just hit for that big fantasy franchise remake/reboot/sequel. It’s too big to fail! And then fail it does. They got the cast way wrong. They hired a bad writer. And they’re going to ruin everything we loved about the original. What’s worse? These big studios don’t seem to care. Do they? Or do some big studios have big secret reasons for “improving” fantasy franchises?

  • 305. How Do Great Stories Help Us Prepare for War-Time?

    305. How Do Great Stories Help Us Prepare for War-Time?

    · Fantastical Truth

    “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.” That’s what the Lord Jesus promised His disciples. How does His word, with support from fantastical fiction, help us prepare for armed conflicts across our real world?

    Episode sponsorsThe Star-Blessed by Angie DickinsonRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoThe Hole-Man by Dan DaetzAbove the Circle of Earth by E. Stephen BurnettMission updateNew at Lorehaven: join the Lorehaven AuthorshipSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildQuotes and notes

    The main relevant fact admitted by all parties is that war is very disagreeable. The main contention urged as fact by Pacifists would be that wars always do more harm than good. How is one to find out whether this is true? It belongs to a class of historical generalisations which involve a comparison between the actual consequences of some actual event and a consequence which might have followed if that event had not occurred.

    “Wars do no good” involves the proposition that if the Greeks had yielded to Xerxes and the Romans to Hannibal, the course of history ever since would have been perhaps better, but certainly no worse than it actually has been; that a Mediterranean world in which Carthaginian power succeeded Persian would have been at least as good and happy and as fruitful for all posterity as the actual Mediterranean world in which Roman power succeeded Greek.

    My point is not that such an opinion seems to me overwhelmingly improbable. My point is that both opinions are merely speculative; there is no conceivable way of convincing a man of either.

    C. S. Lewis, “Why Am I Not A Pacifist”

    1. Great stories show us that war is hell.Answer to Stephen’s earlier question: all great stories need conflict.Without any conflict, no fights, battles, war, sin, we’d have no story.(Side thought: without the Fall, fiction as we know it couldn’t exist.)Yes, we do love stories that are so focused on war that the word is right in the title: Star Wars, World of Warcraft, Warhammer 40,000.But it’s vital for stories to show conflict/war as somewhat realistic.People die and do not return. Wounds hurt. War-“glory” is fleeting.And of course, folks start or fight in wars for very corrupt reasons.2. Stories also show wars can be necessary.God Himself, as Author of the Story, allowed/planned for conflict.The very existence of fiction reminds us conflict serves a purpose.Folks uncomfortable with war often find ways to like these stories.This might indicate that even they know conflict has some purpose.Few critics would reasonably dispute (by faithful in-universe terms) the justifiable causes of the Federation, Fremen, or Men of Gondor.Deep Christian traditions of “just war theory” often supports them.Villains have many motives, but often can be stopped only by force.3. Best of all, stories help us long for peace.Having shown war as hell, but also necessary, stories can do more.The best ones remind us that all conflict and war is temporary.At our best, we as fans aren’t mercenaries who live for the fight.We do want that redemptive, happy ending for heroes, already!
 At least, until the next war-story reminding us that it’s not yet.Most stories hold this happy end always out of reach, off the page.Others, chief among these the biblical Story, directly promise this.Com stationTop question for listenersWhat are your favorite war-stories and why?Fans like Luke liked exploring pros/cons of adaptation:

    Our kids usually prefer books to their screen adaptations, but were very disappointed by the Mary Poppins books. The Disney adaptation took a lot of liberties, but it also made Poppins more likeable and wisely left out pagan elements of the story.

    Next on Fantastical Truth

    This month’s Project Hail Mary film is being praised as a fresh, thrilling sci-fi take that is wholesome and sincere. As expected, we’re seeing more fantastical fans cry out for stories that celebrate the human spirit. Why do we love these stories? And how do different fan trends, even across whole generations, keep swerving between positive portrayals and other stories that may be called “realistic” or else “cynical”?

  • 304. When Was the Film Better Than the Book?

    304. When Was the Film Better Than the Book?

    · Fantastical Truth

    Adaptations. Sometimes we act like we don’t like them. But sometimes we do. And sometimes each new version of a story—book to film or TV show—changes the original but adds something new and amazing. Today we explore the pros and cons of adaptations.

    Episode sponsorsFirebreak by Kathy TyersRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoThe Hole-Man by Dan DaetzThe Lorehaven AuthorshipMission updateNew at Lorehaven: review of The Star-BlessedSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild1. When the film was better than the book(?)Zack believes The Lord of the Rings films are better than the books.He also finds The Hunger Games films better than the books.Both Dune films are more accessible than the novels, at least so far.2. When film versions make changes yet winOne Piece condenses/adapts a lot from the original, yet is beloved.The Three Body Problem series wonderfully adapts the book.Next week’s Project Hail Mary is being hailed as a faithful version.3. When remade versions beat earlier versionsAvatar: The Last Airbender has flaws yet beats the 2010 film.12 Monkeys the show is far better than 12 Monkeys the movie.Many of the DC and Marvel new versions beat earlier adaptations.Com station

    Top question for listeners

    Which of your favorite film versions beat or match original books?Next on Fantastical Truth

    “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.” That’s what the Lord Jesus promised His disciples. How does His word, with support from fantastical fiction, help us prepare for armed conflicts across our real world?

  • 303. Why Do Many Fans Crown ‘One Piece’ King of the Anime?

    303. Why Do Many Fans Crown ‘One Piece’ King of the Anime?

    · Fantastical Truth

    Kaizoku ou ni ore wa naru! Today around the world, millions of fans who love Japan’s hit manga/anime series, One Piece, are rejoicing for many reasons, including today’s release of the live-action series season 2 on Netflix. Why do so many fans love these comical, earnest adventures of Captain Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates?

    Episode sponsorsFirebreak by Kathy TyersRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoThe Hole-Man by Dan DaetzThe Lorehaven AuthorshipMission updateNew at Lorehaven: our book quest into fantasy EmbergoldSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildQuotes and notesThe hit manga just reached 600 million, matching SupermanAfter 1,170+ chapters and nearly 30 years, creator Eiichiro Oda’s pirates-with-powers story is sailing toward its final arcs.The popular anime is ending hiatus to resume in April.And today Netflix is christening the live series Season 2, after 2023’s Season 1 happily broke the “anime to live-action curse.”Oh, and this just in: last week Oda and crew made the meme come true.He really did write down the answer to “what is the One Piece,” the treasure sought by every pirate.He locked this in a chest, buried it deep in the sea, and initiated a great fan-pirate era.But spoiler alert: I think I know the secret of the One Piece. And by the end of this episode, I shall spell out my grand fan theory.Mission updateNew at Lorehaven: our book quest into fantasy EmbergoldSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild

    The Mugiwara (Straw Hat) Pirates of One Piece, with friends from Fishman Island.

    1. One Piece plots with deep heroic ambition.Plot summary: Luffy sets his goal of becoming king of the pirates.He recruits a crew with other goals, yet following him as captain.Over many years and arcs, their goals all begin to come together.It’s a celebration of labor, pain, reward, and growing to maturity.So it’s like “follow your dream” but much longer, deeper, complex.After all, dreams/goals lead to disloyalty, idolatry, and overwork.One day I had to stop watching One Piece for good reason.Why? I had been overworked and needed more rest than ambition.Altogether it’s a reminder of the great adventure that’s often hard.In a world of “you’re great as you are,” this is a worthy challenge.2. One Piece recruits a nakama pirate crew.And yet this story isn’t just about individuals with selfish interests.Everyone in the Straw Hat pirate crew grows in their relationships.It’s much like a “found family” but not without natural family bonds.Some of them have deep childhood trauma and must find healing.Villains also have tragic pasts, but are also evil and must go down.Trauma is serious, death is permanent, and personal loss will sting.Many fans (myself included) find this “wacky realism” refreshing.Oda wisely avoids and mocks the idea of romance among the crew.And also wisely, the live-action series reflects all of these themes.That’s one reason One Piece LA broke the live-action-anime curse.3. One Piece sails to fantastical new worlds.Fans praise Oda’s worldbuilding that is indeed massively creative.Fantasy meets sci-fi meets horror, in land, sky, and deep oceans.Each island brings new crises and often many evil leaders to fight.Thus, Luffy and the Straw Hats have toppled multiple dictatorships.It’s all part of Luffy’s strong views of loyalty to friends and freedom.And now the Straw Hat Jolly Roger flag appears in realSome fans recoil from Oda’s art style, reflecting well in the anime.Characters often have wacky proportions, heavy on caricature.And alas, manga/anime is fond of “comedic” nudity/sexual imagery.Yet with cautions, you can now enjoy this story in many art forms.BONUS: has Stephen found the One Piece?Some fans believe the One Piece is more of a traditional treasure.Others claim a metaphor, e.g. “the friends we made along the way.”But I think the series has given us plenty of clues to identify it.For the treasure chest, Oda wrote, “As for the One Piece, it is 
”If fans found the buried paper, they’d read: (continued in episode!)Com stationTop question for listenersWhat’s your favorite crazy story with wild action and heroic heart?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Adaptations. Sometimes we act like we don’t like them. But sometimes we do. And sometimes each new version of a story—book to film or TV show—changes the original but adds something new and amazing. So next week, we’ll explore the pros and cons of adaptation, whether it’s One Piece, or The Pendragon Cycle, or the latest superhero retelling.

  • 302. How Does Space Opera Sing of New Worlds? | Firebreak with Kathy Tyers

    302. How Does Space Opera Sing of New Worlds? | Firebreak with Kathy Tyers

    · Fantastical Truth

    Space is a dangerous place. Even recently we learned that the entire Artemis program has been rebooted, adding more rockets and risks! In other worlds and other galaxies, “space” is full of human life, music, adventure, romance, and fantastical new worlds. Just in time for Firebreak, book 1 of the Firebird Interlude Trilogy, we’re joined by longtime science fiction novelist Kathy Tyers to explore how the best space operas sing through this teeming expanse.

    Episode sponsorsFirebreak by Kathy TyersRealm Makers 2026 Conference & ExpoThe Hole-Man by Dan DaetzThe Lorehaven AuthorshipMission updateNew at Lorehaven: Andromache review, weekly reviewsSubscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven GuildYou’ll get notified of monthly events, like last week’s livestream.Backstory: Kathy (Tyers) Gillin

    Kathy Tyers sold her first novel, Firebird, to Bantam Spectra in 1986. Since its initial 1987 publication, it has been rereleased by Bethany House Publishers, Marcher Lord Press, and Enclave Publishing, and was followed by further Firebird-universe novels Fusion Fire and Crown of Fire. Kathy finished the Firebird series in 2011 and 2012 with Wind and Shadow and the messiah tale Daystar. Enclave Publishing has also re-released her early novels One Mind’s Eye, Shivering World (Christy Award winner, 2019), and Crystal Witness. Now she’s returning to the Firebird whorl for a new series of novels. The Firebird Interlude trilogy begins March 10 with the release of Firebreak. Kathy is also known for her Star Wars Expanded Universe novels—The Truce at Bakura and New Jedi Order: Balance Point. She lives in Montana with her husband William T. Gillin.

    KathyTyers.comon Facebook1. What are the origin stories of space opera?1818: Mary Shelley’s first sci-fi-ish/horror novel Frankenstein1830: British author Percy Greg’s poetical Across the ZodiacLate 19th century: the prolific Jules Verne, across Earth and spaceLate 19th/early 20th century: H. G. Wells brings the humanismEarly 20th century: Edgar Rice Burroughs shares pulp adventureOther written tales and film serials helped create early space operaThis tradition focused not just on big ideas, but big human storiesWithout these tales, we might not have stories like Star WarsAnd that’s one way that today’s guest learned she liked sci-fi2. Why do today’s fans love space opera?Kathy Tyers has written harder science fiction, like Shivering World.Spaceships are cool, but many fans like human drama even more.For example, the Firebird Series is set in a far future galactic Whorl.Readers resonate with Lady Firebird and her husband Brennan.This, by the way, marks a rare example of married-couple heroes.Similarly, Star Wars has spaceships, but focuses on human heroes.Christians also see cool ideas and tech as means to human ends.Without our humanity, we become “minds of metal and wheels.”Even the best Star Trek episodes well understood this reality.3. What might be the future of space opera?More about the Firebird Interlude series—titles, dates, speculation.Coming this June, Kathy Tyers gives a keynote at Realm Makers.Meanwhile, we may expect to March onward into big space opera.Project Hail Mary, based on Andy Weir’s novel, gets early plaudits.Next up, actor Ryan Gosling and director Shawn Levy’s Starfighter movie (set in the Star Wars universe) is receiving a new hope from fans.People do want futuristic, human-centric science-accented drama.And yet Christians see this not as simply “hope in the human spirit” but hope of redemption, for grace-filled humans and a future age.Com stationTop question for listenersWhat space opera stories help you sing in joyful gratitude?Next on Fantastical Truth

    Kaizoku ou ni ore wa naru! Today around the world, millions of fans who love Japan’s hit manga/anime series, One Piece, are rejoicing. First, because after 1,170+ chapters and nearly 30 years since 1997, creator Eiichiro Oda’s pirates-with-powers story is sailing toward its final arcs. Second, because the popular anime is following soon after, breaking hiatus to resume in April. And third, because on March 10, Netflix is christening the One Piece live-action series Season 2, after 2023’s Season 1 flagrantly and happily broke the “anime to live-action curse.” Why do fans (like Stephen himself) love these comical, earnest adventures of Captain Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates?

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