Episode 230: Sci-Fi Vs. Fantasy
This week, Josh and Dietrich look at a pair of genres nearly always bundled together, and discuss the commonalities and differences between science fiction and fantasy. They talk about why the complex and elaborate world building of fantasy doesn't often make an appearance in scifi, and why fantasy rarely explores the deeper philosophical or political questions raised by so many science fiction greats. Josh discusses the difference in stakes in the two genres, and the pair look at several authors of each genre that borrow some of the best attributes from the other. In addition, Dietrich talks about a young adult series about a teenager desperately trying to not become an actual supervillain, Josh raves about a nonfiction book about North Korea and an abducted film director, and they wrap up the episode discussing the second season of The Handmaid's Tale, a Netflix adaptation of one of their favorite young adult series, and the brilliant final season of The Americans. You can send questions or comments to librarypolicequestions@gmail.com.
