Mammoth Rider: SJ Poyton's Long Road to Publishing

Here’s a story that will encourage many of our listeners: SJ Poyton’s epic journey to publication has spanned nearly 20 years, and her perseverance has paid off with the release of her sci-fi children’s novel, Mammoth Rider. Think Jurassic Park, but much more plausible.

In this episode, SJ and Julia Golding sit down to discuss the environmental themes behind the book, as well as the importance of including neurodiverse characters in a way that portrays their unique minds as simply being part of who they are, and even as a part of their gifts. SJ and Julia go on to decide how one should name a mammoth, before speculating about which mythical creature they would wish to introduce into the real world.

To learn more about SJ, and to order your own copy of Mammoth Rider, visit https://www.sjpoyton.com/ 

(00:04) Introduction to SJ Poyton and Mammoth Rider
(00:47) A 19-Year Journey to Publication
(04:35) What Mammoth Rider Is About
(06:56) How Mammoths Could Help Fight Climate Change
(09:05) Greenland, Nyala, and the White Mammoth
(12:15) Neurodiversity in the Book and in SJ’s Life
(17:10) Dyslexia Representation in Fantasy
(21:01) Writing the Sequel to Mammoth Rider
(26:08) Science Notes, Ethics, and Questions for Readers
(26:56) Which Fantasy Creature Would You Bring Back?

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Mythmakers is the podcast for fantasy fans and creatives, brought to you by the Oxford Centre for Fantasy. In each episode, we embark on an exploration of the world of fantasy—both classic and contemporary. From the stories behind your favourite series to expert tips for aspiring writers, we dive into books, films, TV shows, and the creative process behind them.

Brought to you from the heart of Oxford—home to literary greats like J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Lewis Carroll—we continue the storytelling tradition in the very city where Narnia, Middle-earth, and even Wonderland took shape drawing on the city’s magical blend of ancient buildings, labyrinthine libraries, and gentle river meadows.

Ready to step into the Wardrobe with us into your next big adventure? Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/ to learn more!