In this episode, I sit down with my friend Dave Butler, author of 20+ novels and editor-in-chief at Plain and Precious Publishing, to unpack what’s happening to modern fantasy, sci-fi, and storytelling as a whole.

We dive into why so many stories today feel different… and whether something deeper has been lost.

From the rise of “hard magic” systems popularized by Brandon Sanderson, to the growing influence of modern publishing trends, Dave makes the case that fantasy may be drifting away from its roots, away from mystery, meaning, and the kind of storytelling that shaped writers like Tolkien.

We also explore:
• Why modern fantasy often feels more mechanical than mythic
• How publishing has changed (and who decides what gets published)
• The challenge of finding trustworthy books for your kids
• Why Tolkien still resonates in a way many modern stories don’t
• And whether we’re starting to see a return to more meaningful storytelling

If you’ve ever wondered why stories don’t feel the same anymore—or how to navigate what to read and recommend, this conversation is for you.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments:
Do you prefer “hard magic”… or something more mysterious?

Find Dave Butler on X: https://x.com/DavidJohnButler

Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids
Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ"
https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/he-lives-a-rhyming-testimony-of-the-living-christ

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By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world…

I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world.

Disclaimer:
This podcast and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

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