The Twelve: Liz Hyder and Timeslip Fantasy

Episode Description

One of the things we love most is encouraging new voices in fantasy - and so on today’s episode of Mythmakers, we are delighted to meet Liz Hyder, author of award-winning Bearmouth and forthcoming The Twelve (coming October 2024 from Pushkin Press). The Twelve is a wonderful YA fantasy adventure set in Pembrokeshire Wales, it is a gripping mystery and a delightfully poetic read with a heart for the environment and the kids who don't quite fit in with other teens. Join us to hear Liz's journey to being a writer, the books she recommends and the processes she follows.

For more information on Liz and her works visit https://www.lizhyder.co.uk

For more information on the Oxford Centre for Fantasy, our writing courses, and to check out our awesome social media content visit:

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0:00 Introduction to MythMakers Podcast

1:22 Early Influences and Gateway Books

2:50 Discovering Tolkien and Alan Garner

5:17 Alan Garner's Influence and Ongoing Inspiration

9:29 Writing Apprenticeship and Novel Drafting

11:15 Letting Go of Published Works and Moving Forward

12:30 Introduction to "The 12" and its Setting

14:55 Comparisons to Other Fantasy Writers

16:48 Personal Connection to Wales and Manorbeer

21:44 Setting the Story at the Turn of the Millennium

26:55 Loneliness and Isolation

30:37 Childhood Bullying Experiences

33:52 Characters Finding Connection

34:55 Patterns and Themes Emergence

36:48 The Empowerment of Editing

40:21 The Complex Villain

44:42 Collaboration with Artist Tom de Fresten

46:21 Caravan Holiday Destination: Narnia

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More about Mythmakers

Welcome to Season 4 of Mythmakers!

Mythmakers is the podcast for fantasy fans and creatives brought to you by the Oxford Centre for Fantasy. We will be exploring fantasy old and new, look at what went into writing your favourite series, learn tips from the experts, and discuss new books, TV shows and films.

Mythmakers is brought to you from the city of Oxford - home to many of the world's greatest fantasy writers, from J.R.R. Tolkien and Middle-earth, to C.S. Lewis, creator of Narnia, and the grandfather of them all, Lewis Carroll with his Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. The Oxford story continues with outstanding contemporary writers finding inspiration among the ancient buildings, labyrinthine libraries, and gentle river meadows.

Ready to jump down the rabbit hole with us to find your next mythmaker? Visit https://oxfordcentreforfantasy.org/