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Lycurgus was the law-giver of Sparta - like Moses for the Hebrews - and his laws remained in place for over 500 years! Lycurgus’ example and laws made Sparta one of the greatest Greek city-states, whose history was revered, studied, and even emulated by everyone during its day. Tales and movies of Sparta’s greatness are still told, written, and even put…

Lonesome Dove is a Pulitzer Prize-winning Western epic by Larry McMurtry. The story follows retired Texas Rangers Augustus McCrae and Woodrow Call as they lead a cattle drive from Texas to Montana in the late 1870s. They gather a varied crew and face harsh landscapes, outlaws, Native American raids, and personal trouble. The story combines adventure, friendship, and tragedy, portraying the cost of ambition and the mythos of the Old West.

Recommended reading for adults only, due to violence, language, and sexual elements.

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We read and discuss Tolkien’s essay On Faerie Stories, where Tolkien discusses how he views and writes fairy tales.

There is a lot to learn:

* What are fairy stories?

* Where do they come from?

* Who are they for?

* Why are many modern “fairy tales” not so at all?

* How have some recent versions become poor retellings? And more.

This is one of those books I never would have read except that my children asked me. And then the story turned out to profoundly rival many that I have read in “higher” literature like Plutarch’s Lives.

The main character begins at a great height in life, falls miserably low, and rises again through miraculous providence. She keeps her “princess” dignity throughout, strengthened by imagination and stories.

All ages should read. The hardcover edition illustrated by Tasha Tudor is the best.

* 00:00 Introduction

* 00:50 Retelling of A Little Princess (Spoilers)

* 06:21 Readings from A Little Princess

* 19:48 Discussion

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Everyman’s Plutarch series provides short biographies about famous men and women in Western history, from ancient, medieval, and modern times.

Romulus was the founder of Rome. We retell and discuss his story, reading from Famous Men of Rome with notes from my personal reading of Plutarch’s Lives. This is recorded live as we homeschool our own children.

Th…

Tolstoy’s writing is long, deep, and serious. He pulls you into the lives and characters of his subjects. You become bound up with their actions and decisions. Anna’s tale is a true tragedy, which contrasts with Lenin’s tale showing how happiness can be achieved.

We’d recommend becoming familiar with a list of characters before listening, since the story is complex and our discussion isn’t meant to teach but explore the book.

Suitable for adults, preferably already married. Yet, the lessons should be learned by all.

We own several copies but this one is our favorite. It’s a great translation, and the binding is just beautiful.

We recommend watching this movie version of the book.

* 00:00 Introduction

* 01:06 Retelling of Anna Karenina

* 05:32 Reading Selection of Anna Karenina

* 29:03 Discussion

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Theseus is the first character discussed in Plutarch’s Lives. So, we begin with him as well. He was a founding figure of Athens, establishing many customs and traditions. He achieves great victories and commits great sins.

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Everyman’s Plutarch series goes through the great figures of history, with short biograph…

Western morality is bound up with the deceptively profound lessons of Aesop’s Fables. Men of old took them seriously. Ancient students memorized them. Socrates recounted them on his death bed. Aristotle said they were necessary for maturity. Jesus spoke at least one of the fables to his disciples. Renaissance men translated them along with Homer. Great Christian leaders used them in sermons. Our language and moral assumptions today are infused with Aesop’s Fables. We had a great time recording this one. Listen and follow along!

We have the Calla Edition Aesop’s Fables.

* 00:00 Introduction

* 00:51 Reading of Aesop's Fables

* 08:52 Discussion

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A modern epic that reaches back to classic stories to create something new. Worth reading as a tale in itself and as 20th century political worldview. Very heavy with themes of freedom vs. tyranny, adventure and home, leadership, loyalty, bravery, sacrifice, survival, and the importance of story and myth in fostering identity and hope.

We have the Scribner Classics edition and it is beautiful!

* 00:00 Introduction

* 00:53 Retelling of Watership Down

* 07:59 Reading From Watership Down

* 15:04 Discussion

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What the podcast is about, who it’s for, and why you should join the journey. Free to listen. If you enjoy, please support by subscribing and sharing.

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