A Literary Cornucopia

A Math and logic professor by day and an author by night. Who would have guessed that Charles Lutwidge Dodgson and Lewis Carroll were one and the same? Could these two personalities be more incompatible? Very shy and often bullied at school, this writer of the wonderful children’s book Alice in Wonderland also endured several illnesses, one of which left him deaf in one ear. 

J.R.R. Tolkien, the English writer and scholar achieved fame with his creative epic stories: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings . He created detailed languages and rich mythology for Middle-earth, making it a believable and immersive world for readers. His works continue to inspire and influence writers, scholars, and readers around the world.

C. S. Lewis was one of the intellectual giants of the twentieth century and without a doubt one of the most influential writers of his day. He might be best known for “The Chronicles of Narnia" which is a series of seven high-fantasy novels, written between 1949 and 1954 and published from 1950 to 1956. The series is considered a classic of children's literature and has been adapted for r...

For those into fantasy, horror, science fiction, and graphic novels, Neil Gaiman is the writer of choice. Influenced in part by C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Edgar Allan Poe, it is not surprising that his work has earned him fame. 

P.D. James made a significant contribution to the detective fiction genre. She began writing crime novels when she worked as senior administrator in the National Health Service (NHS). She had a very unique way of depicting the criminal mind. Her detective fiction was a reflection of society's fears, anxieties, and moral dilemmas during her time. Those have not changed much. This episode provid...

Dame Agatha Christie was a prolific mystery writer. Novels, short stories and plays all involved plots with many twists and turns. Even her own life had its mystery when she disappeared for eleven days! We'll never know if it was a publicity stunt.

Much has been said about this poet. I can only add that after re-reading her poetry, I realize how unique she was not only as a poet but as a woman of strength in many ways. The Victorian Period produced two notable poets: Elizabeth Barrette Browning and Christina Georgina Rossetti. Each had her own style but of the two, Christina has left an indelible mark in my soul. ~~LMM

In keeping with April as National Poetry month, I revisited Episode 30 to listen to my poem inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's poem "A Dream Within Dream." Poe both as a writer and as a poet is definitely in a category by himself. I've always been attracted to his narratives but his poems hold a special place in my heart. After nearly two centuries, why does his body of work appeal to...

Celebrating the 100th episode with flash fiction, a very short and sweet story. Loosely based on a true event from a long time ago. Care to share your own? You may send yours to aliterarycornucopiapodcast@gmail.com. ~~LMM

If you had your choice, would you rather deal with 5-year old kids or teenagers? Pick your poison because of the two groups, it might not be easy. This story deals with a young woman who might not be able handle either group.

The month of February brings back childhood memories. Can a child have romantic feelings towards another? The answer may not be so simple. How can a child handle an emotion that he (or she) doesn't fully understand?

This episode includes the conversation between Adriana and Mia and their observations during the first days back in the English class. The group started off with discussions on heaven and in particular the main character’s encounter with five people in his heaven. All in all it was an emotional beginning of the new semester. 

Resolutions: How good are you at keeping them? Only time will tell. Will 2024 be different?

I'm ending the year 2023 and Season #4 with a mystery story. Coming up with a plot for a mystery is a challenge but the process can be fun. I hope to add more for the new year 2024 and Season 5. If you have any comments, please email me at aliterarycornucopiapodcast@gmail.com

Sometimes when we read a novel for the second (or maybe a third) time, we see things in a different light. Events looked at through a different lens become more clear or we as the reader might not mind the mystery behind them. It's always about perspective with Shirley Jackson's novel.

A Literary Cornucopia podcast shares from the Classroom Chronicles Advanced podcast part one of the unit on Gothic literature. The CCA is a podcast project dealing with topics discussed in the 11th grade advanced level course in English. Gothic literature is a topic not often dealt with in a Christian school but is one that should be included for the benefit of all English language learners. This...

Three students from the 11th grade English class react to the ghost story after they listened to it. Judging by what they said, the story left a mark.

If you want to sleep well at night, this ghost story must be read during the daytime. Bram Stoker has a way of drawing the reader or listener into a world few are familiar with. This radio drama uses all the techniques to make the listener feel he is right there! You will feel the Judge staring right at you, just as the protagonist did. Source: https://archive.org/details/bram-stoker-the-judges-ho...

Ever have a toy you weren’t fond of? Maybe it was a doll that you didn’t want to cuddle. As children we sometimes react to toys that mystify our parents. Our actions defy logic, don’t you think? Listen to these accounts and decide.  

Gothic Literature is a genre to be enjoyed, especially at this time of year. Check out this brief summary of one of my favorite genres. ~~LMM

I’ve read this novel several times at different stages of my life. I always learn something about human psychology.

Can you imagine not having memories? No emotions, no colors, everything is the same. A dreary existence, right? If you're a fan of dystopian novels, you might want to check this one out. It has a deep message for all ages.

These students listened to Episode 72 and had to come up with their own unique ending to this tale. I enjoyed listening and was impressed with their creative imaginations.

Mythology in the modern world, three youngsters out to save the world, what's not to like? With its twists and turns, it's a roller coaster of an adventure.

The first installment was a delight to read; a very straightforward tale. Adults and children alike will enjoy the journey into the land of Narnia. I've seen the movies but nothing compares to the C. S. Lewis' narrative. His vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling immerse readers in the world of Narnia, making it feel as real as any other fantastical realm.