Redeeming Reads

Travel to late 19th Century Russia in this episode on Dostoyvesky’s magnum opus. A murder mystery that dabbles in both theology & philosphy, this classic explores concepts of free will, athiesm, suffering, & human responsibility. The Devil himself makes an appearance. Dylan confesses to shattering his Chemex. Taylor rates Dunkin Donuts’ coffee. Also find out the most legendary single origi...

What could be redemptive about cyclops, cannibals, sirens, and sea monsters? Taylor & Dylan discuss the oldest classic to yet appear on the podcast—the ancient epic Greek poem, The Odyssey by Homer. They talk translation theory, narrative form, and share how this work stands apart from more modern works of classic literature. Also, Taylor educates Dylan about hard cider. Intro: 00:52 Book Discussi...

This episode, Taylor & Dylan discuss the American classic by John Steinbeck. Topics of discussion include theological deconstruction, transcendentalism, homelessness, Christian nationalism, & civil war battle hymns. Why does God move toward those who are poor? How should Christians approach social justice? Larger questions include - What is an espresso blend? Do people eat coffee cherries?...

On this episode, Taylor & Dylan enter the mind of Kafka with The Castle, exploring his manipulation of time, logic, and consciousness. They talk about God’s sovereignty over convoluted and incompetent bureaucratic systems and the purpose behind the frustrations we face in life. Ties are made to Ecclesiastes and Job. Taylor forgets Salvador Dali’s name. Dylan fails to summarize the story. What make...

Dylan & Taylor read a banned book. But what's with the talking animals? Do biological traits predestine our future? What does Jesus say about totalitarian regimes? Richard Wurmbrand & Bonhoeffer make an appearance. Do Dylan & Taylor spill the beans on their own political views? In this single-part episode the guys discuss George Orwell's novella Animal Farm. Animal Farm by George Orwel...

Dylan & Taylor introduce the next book on the podcast & why it is still applicable in 2022.

The guys go remote this episode. Taylor chooses a tea as a coffee alternative. The guys discuss the finale of the book and draw connections to Pilgrim’s Progress. What do Kurtz’ dying words mean? What is the role of the women in the novel? Is the story an allegory after all? The guys interpret themes of sight, blindness, and truth unveiled through the light of the gospel. Heart of Darkness by Jose...

This time Dylan brings the coffee for Taylor. They learn the cost of ivory tusks in USD, discuss the literary decision to leave most characters unnamed, & compare the story to ancient Greek epics. Taylor reflects on the Holocaust's impact subsequent to the progress of the Insustrial Revolution. Dylan reflects on implications from the sermon on the mount in the face of corrupt authority. How do...

Dylan Berridge & Taylor Gilbert introduce the purpose behind Redeeming Reads: a podcast interpreting classic novels in light of the gospel.

Taylor brings the coffee for Dylan to try. They discuss various themes of their long-standing favorite novel, such as existentialism, absurdity, psychological descent, light-dark dualism, hypocrisy, & Marlow’s seeming indifference in the face of racial oppression. What do we do with the absurdity in our own lives? Is Heart of Darkness inspired by Ecclesiastes? Does this story represent a de-cr...

Dylan & Taylor explain their first book selection for the podcast.