The Protagonist Podcast

This week we return to the world of fan fiction as we discuss Cather in the novel Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell. Topics include PG-13 rated snuggling, the reasons we write fiction, autism in literature, Cather’s satisfying victories, and her awesome boyfriend.

Todd and Joe are talking about a pop culture phenomenon from a decade ago: High School Musical. How does it hold up for a first time viewer? Can a VERY close reading of a ninety second scene yield insights in the plot? Do they have more fun than they expected talking about this film? Listen to find out.

This week all-star guest Kjerste Christensen joins Todd and Joe to talk about the outstanding 2006 graphic novel The Arrival, by Shaun Tan. Discussion topics include the power of a wordless novel, Tan’s unique style, and the story’s compassionate and overall hopeful tone.

This week, we enter the Shondaverse to talk about Olivia Pope from the tv show Scandal. We talk about the tone of the show, quality writing and acting, and wonder about Olivia’s blind spot.

Novelist Frank Cole joins Todd and Joe as they discuss Christopher Rowe in the The Blackthorn Key. This middle grade novel by Kevin Sands is a bit like The Da Vinci Code meets Shakespeare (but for kids), and in the conversation the guys discuss puzzles in literature, solid plot mechanics, what makes a strong character, and things that go BOOM!

In the spirit of the Winter Olympics, Joe and Todd are joined by special guest Chris Maverick to discuss the film Cool Runnings. They talk about family film expectations, current attitudes toward this film, and what character arcs the film presents.

Todd, Joe, and Producer Andrew play a new Valentine’s Day game. They try to build the longest chain of actors they can by saying “Actor A dated Actress B in Movie X, and Actress B dated Actor C in Movie Y…” Their most impressive chain starts with Will Smith and ends with … well, we’ll let you listen to find out.

Todd and Joe talk about Mary Jane from the comic book Spider-Man Loves Mary Jane. They discuss the significance of high school emotions, the blending of superheroes and adolescent drama, and one of a Todd’s favorite artistic portrayals in comic books.

We’re joined by special guest Karissa Evensen to discuss the novel Wyrd Sisters by Terry Pratchett. We talk about his Discworld series, the three witches, and the relationship between truth and story.

This week, inspired by a patron request, Todd and Joe dip a toe into the world of fan fiction. They talk about what it is, it’s gray areas, and Producer Andrew points out some iconic works of fan fiction.