Episode 92: The Casual Vacancy

Dietrich and Josh return from a week-long break with a new podcast, a new email address, and a new website. To celebrate their good fortune, they finally discuss The Casual Vacancy by JK Rowling in a two-part section. First, they talk about the massive burden of expectation that this book struggles under, and the challenge of stepping from young adult to a VERY adult novel. In the second half, it's spoilers everywhere, as they look at the staggering cast of deep and rich characters that populate Rowling's world, and both come away tremendously impressed. In addition, they answer an author's questions about some literary science fiction, Josh steals Dietrich's usual role by discussing a fascinatingly violent video game, and Dietrich discusses the outstanding Modern Family. You can send questions and comments to questions@thelibrarypolice.com.
To download this episode, right click here and select "Save As"
What We've Been Reading |
The Casual Vacancy by JK Rowling33:47 to 54:08 (Non-Spoiler)
54:08 to 1:31:38 (Spoiler) For the first half, the pair discuss the high bar of expectation Rowling had to overcome, and the tremendously mixed fan and critical response. For the second half, they discuss the rich characters, deep plotting, and gut-wrenching ending. |
Off The Bookshelf |