Today's blog will be short.
Our second episode ever of the Wordplay Podcast is now up and running. Our guest this week is Ally Condie, author of MATCHED, and you can actually win a signed copy of it if you go and listen.
I'm also, as promised, throwing in a chance to win an advanced copy of THE DEATH CURE just for fun. To enter for this chance, all you have to do is post a comment on this here blog and tell us something you liked, learned, hated, ANYTHING, about the podcast from either this week or last week.
Simple right?
To go to the official Wordplay website, CLICK HERE!!!
EDIT: For those of you looking for it on iTunes, CLICK HERE
Posts
210 comments:
1 – 200 of 210 Newer› Newest»I hate that I can't listen to podcasts at work. :(
The podcast was fun adn i love how the books were being analyzied and it soundedso real..i love the talk show feel :D
coffee_ishita@yahoo.com
I hate that there are not more podcasts. I love how all of ye interact together. I love finding out new stuff about authors, and I think Ally Condie comes across as so nice. Thanks so much for the chance.
natcleary)at)gmail(dot)com
On the first podcast, I learned that fart jokes are funny.
readingvacation(at)att.net
I learned that everyone really is reading Mockingbird.
Love the podcast!!!!! Hate that I can't find it on iTunes, but that's probably my problem
I love the singing at the end of the second podcast. You should definitely keep that. :)
Love learning more about different authors...Matched is def on my reading list now!
haha I liked how you mentioned that if you took all of the stars in Ally Condie's reviews, you could make a new milky way galaxy. All you guys interact really well together, also.
shay.d.cohen@gmail.com
I loved the solo at the end. Even if it was only two words. Maybe more next week?
katieonfiction.blogspot.com
Very interesting podcast! I love listening to authors talk about plot-driven books vs. character-driven (great points!). Also, the little jokes in between are great!
golfgirl96@gmail.com
i am glad that, like you all mentioned in the 1st podcast, you like to read the YA books. I always thought that I was needing to grow out of it, but now that I know that every age still reads them I know that I can be glad that I love YA books. :)
Ally had a "Friday night to remember", and somebody likes "Moon River"!!
Laura Hartness
CalicoCritic at gmail dot com
how ally codie described her book in the beggining it sounds really intresting, something i would like to read when it comes out!Also i liked how you guys were discussing when your wrighting, if you think about plot or character first. I always just love to read and create a special bond between the main characters, thats what always keeps me reading because i feel like they become a part of me. Anyway i love the podcasts! so keep em' comin!!
The podcast was interesting. I wish the clarity was better, but it was fairly easy to understand for the most part.
I liked hearing what was a dream come true for Allie. I thought it was interesting that it was a dream come true for her to place her book in Southern Utah. Who would have thought??
rbcca@hotmail.com
I thought the whole podcast was interesting. Everything talked about was explained well. I especially loved the humor and other book references like harry potter.
I really liked hearing about what you guys are reading at the beginning of the first podcast. I'm always really curious about what types of books authors read. I also really loved that you guys explained the different reading levels: early reader, middle grade, and YA. I worked in a library during my senior year of high school, and I wondered how publishers and people determined what reading level a certain novel was. You three are really fun to listen to, and I can't wait to hear more of your podcasts!
I like the convo of the differences between YA and M/G, etc. There is so much left open, sometimes a novel is heard to be placed in a group.
I also, myself, hate to climb through sewers.
Thanks so much!
Amy
amydelrosso(at)gmail(dot)com
I've never listened to a podcast before now, but it was really cool. It's kind of like a collaborative youtube video, except it's just sound. Haha.
Also, I had never heard of Ally Condie before and now I want to read her books. I tend to like books about dystopias.
It's also just interesting to hear an author's view on the components of what makes a good book.
Lastly, I NEED The Death Cure so I really hope I win! :D
patrickstephendavis@gmail.com
I think the sound quality leaves room for improvement, but I liked the 2 podcasts so far. Thanks for giving length ranges for MG and YA in the first one and I liked the idea of setting as the antagonist in the second. I'm really looking forward to The Death Cure coming out and now I want to read Matched! Thanks!
What is NOT to love about the podcasts??? It rocks!
Liked: The plot vs. character discussion. It was really interesting!!
Learned: Ally Condie is currently reading a book called Mockingbird.
Hated: I didn't hate anything, but it was hard to hear Ally at times.
I loved your discussion about characters vs. plot lines as a place to start your book writing. I start with a plot line and create my characters from there!
Ally is just total awesomeness. So of course, the podcast was brilliant! =)
I love this podcast! I think it's really interesting and I love talking about books with people so it seems like I am now talking with all of you about them. Although, I will admit I've only read your books (Maze Runner, 13th Reality...).
i hated how i turned up the volume to listen to her talk and then BAM, my eardrums explode from the host' voice.
I loved getting Ally's reading recommendations.
(and yes, I do know what Jughead comics are!)
rosie.chic1@gmail.com
I love podcasts because is very funny!! Now listen the new one =D
lekaza88@hotmail.com
I love the podcast!, I love to listen to people who I admire, and somehow feel more real and ... james, I love your voice, very manly (I had to say that), I also love the dynamic in the conversation, very natural and so fun.
Bothers me a little the audio quality of the voice of Ally.
I love how it feels like I'm just listening to friends chatting about books. :) You all joke around with each other and don't take yourselves too seriously. It's nice!
And your voice is totally not annoying!
I love hearing what Ally was reading at the time. Definitely very interesting. I also really like how each author had different opinions about "plot-driven versus character-driven", which provided a very interesting discussion to listen to. I didnt hate anything!
bearsluck202@gmail.com
First of all, I love the two podcasts! Second, love your voice, kind of hot hahaha just kidding. I love the laugh of all of you guys! I laugh with all of you when you do it, there’s a lot of thing that I liked about this podcasts, simply because you talk about books, and is my favorite thing in the whole world, that just the point of all of this, the way you analyze the plot, and the characters, the explanations, that’s so cool, and the only thing that I really hate was my bad english, hahaha, I tried to do my best with the listening and writing, but I has a lot of fun listening to you guys. Cannot wait to the next podcast! Btw, I love the break, last like… 5 seconds hahahaha. You guys rock!
neriss_04@hotmail.com
I thought it was interesting that you talked about (last week) the crossover between MG and YA. I never thought about how something labeled MG wouldn't be picked up by a teenager but YA is picked up by younger kids. You made me feel just a teeny bit guilty for not reading your 13th Reality series :) Just kidding, but I think I will read them now. You definitely made me curious.
Jessica
booksatruestory@gmail.com
First of all, I liked how you guys were actually funny! Like the milky way joke :) I also liked how Ally Condie was your guest star, and her newest book comes out on November 1, "Crossed". Which is very soon to when "The Death Cure" comes out, October 11. Two great books in a months time!
juzercool@hotmail.com
-I really enjoy finding out that people were teachers. Makes me think that one day I may actually be able to write something other than a lesson plan.
-I've had "Matched" on my amazon.com wishlist for a while now and I think I'll have to put it in my next order.
-I am proud to say that yes- I know what Jughead comics are.
-The discussion on villains that readers empathize with was very interesting. I will always have a place in my heart for Severus Snape.
I thought that the references to actual books when you were explaining things was awesome. It helped give something to relate to, or if you haven't read the book mentioned, it gave the speaker something to form concrete ideas about. I liked the use of commentators questions/suggestions as they were both great topics, and gave the podcast a personalized touch. I thought in the previous podcast your discussion about Middlegrade Fiction vs. Young Adult Fiction was interesting as it applied to myself, and probably a lot of your fans. The podcast is a neat way of presenting insight of the 'world of writers' to the 'world of readers', and I hope to hear more very soon!
I like what Orson Scott Card said (something like this): "Good literature is good literature." Age has little to do with appeal.
Would love a copy of The Death Cure!
Joan
http://whattoreadwhattoread.blogspot.com
I really enjoyed how you talked about how plot and character are intertwined. I'm a creative writing major, so hearing author's perspective on the topic was really interesting to me. I'm looking forward to the next podcast!
I learnt that I am passionate about writing novels! I listened again and again to your podcasts and they made me more and more excited every time I heard them!
Your insights into the world of writing and little reflections on how you did these in your own books is just brilliant! I hear that there are people who are also this passionate about writing.
Thanks so much for awakening this writing spirit inside of me!
bre.nicholls@gmail.com
I love learning about different authors and their books because I'm always looking for something to read. I love knowing what other authors are reading too. Podcasts are always awesome!
Can't wait for The Death Cure to come out therefore, I'm dying for an ARC! :]
xjessirae[at]hotmail[dot]com
What I liked the most was that two of my favorite authors were in it, Ally and you!! :D
haha wow. I actually never thought about the differences between the middle age and young adult books... That was a truly interesting experience. xD Applying that to the books I've read, that is a lot of young adult books. :O So I'm guessing The Death Cure is a young adults book? Thanks a bunch for giving me something to ponder! ^-^
Love the Podcast! I learned that the setting for CROSSED is based in Southern Utah, where Ally grew up (which is awesomesauce!).
I don't know which book I'm looking forward to the most, The Death Cure or CROSSED. :O! Thanks for the amazing giveaway!
*crosses fingers and hopes*
-Lena
addicted2novels(at)gmail(dot)com
I hate that I'm too lazy to listen to it even though I could in 5 seconds. You should really think about putting a permanant link to the podcast on the blog page, just saying.
Sincerely, person who really wants to read this book!!!
I loved the idea that no matter how wonderful your characters are, they have to DO something so show how thay change and grow. Good characters need a good plot and vice versa.
I learned that not everyone is annoyed by Moon River!
jpetroroy at gmail dot com
I love to hear my favorite authors talk about what I love most. Books, Humor, Authors, Words. You rock James and I can't wait to read The Death Cure. :-)
I love this podcast! I had to agree that the reader needs to develop a relationship with the character, I find this in many of the books I read, whether it's a negative relationship or not. I also agree that the character needs to develop! :D
robinsparkles@live.ca
twitter @hheartstrongg
This is so fun. I love what was said about Legoes and Snape.
I cannot find the pod cast on itunes either, why?
For those of you looking for it on iTunes, I just added the link to the blog post. Go back and take a look...
I liked that James just writes, not for a particular audience, but to get the best story written and to write his story.
I loved that quote about Ally Condie and the stars, because that's so true and only something that an author could come up with :) I know that's already been said (SORRY) but I loved it.
wordslikesilverblog@gmail.com
Ally was inspired. By Legos. :-D
I totally agree with what you said about characters and plot. You can't really have one without the other. I loved the singing BTW. Who did it?
I love listening to the insights of the authors. Inspiration, etc.
Karin
karinlibrarian@gmail.com
Hey guys. Great comments. Sorry about the sound quality. We record these over Skype and this is the first time we've had a guest join us by phone. I tried to get Ally's volume up to match ours sounds. Like it didn't work perfectly. But we will get better at it.
Thanks,
Jeff Savage
I was happy to learn that I'm not the only adult who still wants to read YA. I don't think I'll ever really grow out of it! Thanks for sharing your insights with us.
I love everything these podcasts represent. I am an avid reader and an aspiring writer and look forward to the book suggestions and writing tips :)
Bianca
I love how you guys were giving your opinions on what are the differences between middle grade novels and young adult novels and how you were explaining that when you write you don't think of the age you just write what comes to mind most of the time.
bi_bi_rocks@hotmail.com
I love how you guys were giving your opinions on what are the differences between middle grade novels and young adult novels and how you were explaining that when you write you don't think of the age you just write what comes to mind most of the time.
bi_bi_rocks@hotmail.com
I liked hearing your voice again, James!
My favorite thing here was learning that authors are like big teenagers who never really grow out of YA.
I really enjoyed hearing how your works differ from the 13th Reality series to The Maze Runner series. I also liked to hear how you felt more freedom to go darker with the YA novels. I respect you for not throwing F-bombs and sex scenes into your work! The podcasts are great! Your novels are very inspiring and I can't wait for The Death Cure to come out!
ae4527(at)gmail(dot)com
while I personally don't know what a jughead comics are my husband does....however I can totally relate to the comments about Oceans Twelve. I agree! There needs be a connection with character
I just love hearing authors view of the world of reading! Interesting info on age categories as well. Can't wait to hear more!
I actually really enjoyed the podcast. I loved that Divergent was mentioned - it is definitely one of the most interesting books I have read recently. I also liked hearing about the differences in the ways your books are written (character driven, or plot driven), and the importance of having the protagonist grow as a character.
How much would I love to have The Death Cure? More than I can possibly express in a comment. :)
saraorgill@gmail.com
I learned that Matched sounds like a really good book, and because of that I learned about plot vs character. When I write my short storied for school I will consider this. Cant wait for more of the podcasts. :D
I love what was shared on the "plot-driven versus character-driven" topic.
lesly7ch(at)yahoo(dot)com
Well, the podcast singing made me lol "Moon river..."
I totally agree with Ally about the MC of "Before I Fall" who was completely annoying and unlikeable in the first half of the story, but it was necessary that she come across that way in order to show the character's growth by the end.
cegluna(at)hotmail(dot)com
I liked the character Vs plot conversation. Matched sounds creepy. I couldn't imagine the government choosing my life partner. Reminds me of the Stepford Wives. And yes. I do remember Jughead. Lol. Good podcast.
I really liked your (James) comment about writing from the perspective of having no memory of the past, and how it was challenging to you. I sometimes try to write from completely different viewpoints than my own, and it really is a challenge, because without really realizing it, you base so much of what you write off of your own past experiences and feelings and perspectives. I've tried to write completely different characters, but when my friends read my writing, they say they an totally see part of me in the character whose viewpoint I'm writing from. Anyways, I really liked the podcast and can't wait for the next one.
BAHAHAHA The person proposing at prom cracked me up... XDD I couldn't imagine someone doing that to me.
Great podcast!
evanrose_@hotmail.com :D
I learned: That I need to read "Before I Fall".
I liked: Hearing my favorite authors voices!
I liked: Hearing the words "Harry Potter" in this podcast!
I already knew: I can't wait for Crossed!!
I already knew: I NEED NEED NEED THE DEATH CURE! :) I miss Thomas.
I enjoyed listening to the first person vs third person perspective bit of the conversation. :)
i hate that....podcasts won't work for me. sigh. but i LOVE your books! :)
americangirlie1991 at yahoo dot com
I love how your talked about Snape and the descussion about what more important plot or character. I think both are so important in writting a book. Thanks for such a great podcast!!!!! :)
I liked how there were so many references back to Harry Potter!
Loved that series and the first person third person point of view. I can't even believe how hard it would be to write when a character doesn't have a memory. Love your series and can't wait until October until The Death Cure comes out!!!! I don't think Im gonna live if I don't get The Death Cure I want it so bad!!!!! I hope I win!!!! Thanks for writting such a great triligy!!!!!!!!
I really liked how on last week's podcast you three discussed how a book's genre is decided. It is interesting that there are all of those different factors and that sometimes the author is totally out of the loop.
I also liked that you guys were so down-to-earth about everything.
Oh man, what didn't I like about the podcast? I think I already voiced my opinion in your last post, but I'll just say again that I loved it. I like the interaction between you three. I like the topics you discuss, very informative as well as entertaining. I look forward to hearing more of them!
kprwrite at hotmail dot com
I like how they are available on iTunes, makes them very easy to download
Loving the podcast. Loved to learn that i'm not the only one reading YA and teen novels at a mature age. Also found it interesting about how each author deals with 'voice' and finding their inner twelve year old. :) (Haven't listened to two yet. It's saved for the commute home)
I like Maze Runner... I love Scorch Trials... And I'm waiting for the Death Cure. It'll be a very nive thing to win a copy of this book before the 21th october. I know it's ready to be sell... Why are waiting for ? I'm ready to pay to buy the book right now... Can't wait... No nails left...
Even if I lose (as usual, I'm not a game winner) have a good time reading these books.
@wdwave
I love hearing how authors view their own carachters and how they feel like they have to give them flaws as well as strengths.
I loved the discussion question posed in this week's podcast with Ally Condie about plot-driven versus character-driven books as it made me think about what I felt was important in books. I loved hearing what everyone felt about that and I completely agree that it is necessary to have both character and plot, but there NEEDS to be a change in the character. The character needs to learn something right?
I liked from last week the discussion on the "need" to hide reading MG books, and Nathan's (I think it was Nathan's) comments on how he just pulls out his Kindle and no one knows what he's reading. :)
Then again, it's interesting to know what other people read, and so I for one openly show what I read in public (the rare times that I do read in public, anyway).
I don't often listen to podcasts, but I'll do anything to win a copy of Death Cure! So I listened to both podcasts. Consider yourself honored, Dude.
I loved just hearing your and Savage's voices, listening to you talk about your favorite books and giving author advice and stuff.
I liked hearing Ally Condie in the latest podcast. I remember liking Matched okay.
I won't say I hated it, because it's too strong a word, but I didn't like your sound quality very much. Try to get better mics or something in future episodes. Just a suggestion.
Despite that, I learned that podcasts are pretty cool! The music for your intros and after the break are great, btw.
I really liked the discussion about the relationship between character and plot, and how the two interact or differ in focus for the different authors.
I liked that the authors supported each other
Loved learning about "Matched" - I am going to have to download this book on the kindle!! SO excited!
I liked the discussion about third person vs first person storytelling. I've never thought about this particular point in depth. Can't wait for "Crossed and "The Death Cure"!
I agree that both character and plot is crucial to a good story. I think that character development is key as well. There needs to be some sort of change in your main character. Otherwise, what is there to glean from the book?
I took a full page of notes on the 2nd podcast...your discussion of POV was helpful because it's something I've always wrestled with. Also, helping solidify the concepts of char v plot driven...all these things I'm sure I'd have a better handle on if I'd majored in, let's say, English, instead of Travel and Tourism.
Also, James, the next part (you know, for your next Friday Night To Remember) is Wider than a mile, I'm crossing you in style some day.
Oh, dream maker, you heart breaker,
wherever you're going I'm going your way. But just a friendly suggestion: don't quit your day job :-)
Three of my favorite writers in one place! It was awesome. I'm assuming once I've read some of Nathan's work I'll have another fav, but Jeff, Ally and James in one spot? Yes please!
I really enjoy this podcast. It's a great source of information for beginning writers. It's a great place to get tips and advice to use for our benefit. A great idea was presented in Episode 2. A story needs plot and character, but if the character doesn't change, what is the point? Genius. Absolutely genius.
I loved the podcast, hearing about how you as authors saw other YA books, such as Divergent. I have read the first two books of MazeRunner, and look forward to reading Matched.
I really liked the discussion about plot driven and character driven stories. Its one of those concepts that I have struggled to put to words. This I think is why I love Twilight so much, even though the plot was a little shaky, But the characters are so well developed that it certainly makes up for the defects in the plot. And also what makes this story resonate deep with the love of it's readers.
I think the podcast was awesome! The questions and answers were intriguing, humorus and insightful. Your awesome dashner dude!
Wow! Good discussion with some smart authors! I really enjoyed the discussion of how the bookstores sometimes misplace books. They have some Y/A books in the same section as children's books, which clearly should be remedied. Still great listen and anxiously awaiting !
-Roy
Wow! Good discussion with some smart authors! I really enjoyed the discussion of how the bookstores sometimes misplace books. They have some Y/A books in the same section as children's books, which clearly should be remedied. Still great listen and anxiously awaiting The Death Cure! (Was deleted from original post)
-Roy
I learned that the decision whether to write a character or plot driven novel affects the end result in huge ways.
I also liked the fact that I'm not the only one who thinks that it isn't enough to have a lovable and relatable character when the plot's just..not that great.
Love the podcast! I loved that Ally just read "A Red Herring Without Mustard"...I love the Flavia de Leuce mysteries. Thanks for posting on iTunes, makes it easier for me to listen. And I am very excited to read "The Death Cure"...my opinion of the entire trilogy is hinging on how it ends...no pressure :)
I learned that "Crossed" is based on the geography of Southern Utah and comes out on November 1st! I loved Matched, The Maze Runner, AND The Scorch Trials. And, would LOVE a copy of The Death Cure.
Loved the podcast, really good content and book suggestions!
I learned that the next book will be named "Crossed". Simple, I know, but this was where I learned it! :)
I love listening to some of the steps you go through while writing and the journey you go on.
It sounds so exciting and makes me want to become an author.
your podcast is awesome. I usually start with a plot when i write...it's actually much cooler than I thought it would be!
and I have no idea if the Magic tree house is middle grade or not...i started reading them in 3rd grade, but only because it looked weird to me in 1st...idk
Also, it could be really cool if the more comments you posted the more chances you have to wih...ha ha
I guess we'll find out if more comments work...you're podcasts are great...
ps my email is alyssajens at gmaildotcom
I LOVE your books and I LOVED hearing you and Ally Condie (and other authors) talk!!! It's my goal to be an author someday, and I want my books to be like both of yours!!! I love both you and Ally, and I'm DYING for both of the new books to come out!!! Thank you for writing such clean, amazing books!!!!
my email adress is:
bookaholic121(at)gmail.com
Thank you for writing such amazing books!!!!!!
PS Minho's my favorite:)
I love reading so much and absolutely love The Maze Runner, The Scorch Trials, and I'm so excited for The Death Cure!!!!!!!!! I love hearing you guys talk about books and how you write.
Oh by the way my email is ashleynrayfiveatcomcastdotnet. Sorry.
Hearing about the stroy makes me want to go and read her bookd now
I love how all my favorite authors are on it :)
mbrdogs@gmail.com
The singing at the end of the podcast was hilarious, you guys should definitely do that again. To rephrase that statement, I Loved the part of the podcast where you sung.
Matched is definitly on my reading list now but after The Death Cure of course!!!! Can't wait till the next podcast!
rachael-3@hotmail.com
I love the use of fuests! Ally Condie's such a great author so it was really exciting when I realized she was the guest. Also, it's really helpful when you guys refer to popular books, like Divergent or Harry Potter. It always helped me to focus back in. I occasionally had no idea what you were saying due to sound quality, but it wasn't too bad. Oh, and I liked that short solo and the laugh that went along with it :)
I loved the humor, so funny!! On to listen to the other one too!
Hello there. What I like about this, first of all, is that your talking about book, besides is the fact that all of you are great friends and have a good time together with this, the podcasts are easy to hear from everyone and the variations from the books recomendations is cool, Ally is a great guest, and I can say there is too much things I would like to learn about writing. Such inspiration for a future writer or kind of lol. And btw I'm so excited for the firsts chapters from The Death Cure, so I hate there's only one person who can win this! Good luck everyone!
rmartincr@hotmail.com
I like how I can download to my iPad from iTunes, and then listen whenever/wherever. :-)
I really appreciate the fact that you guys took time out of your day to make these podcasts and give great advice to us aspiring authors! It's alsO fun to hear about new books! It adds to my "to read" booklist! I'm excited! Thank you!!!
Wow! What a fun podcast. I loved that I learned more about Ally Condie. I'm sure I'll be reading her books now. Thanks again.
emileenreynolds@yahoo.com
I liked how well you guys work together and the part on what is more important plot or character. Love it.
I like that Nathan said, "Give a flip."
That was a great podcast. I'm currently working on a novel, so the info about charactes and plot was very helpful.
I love hearing writers discuss what goes into their craft. It was really wonderful to hear you guys talk about plot and character development... I think it's something I (and probably most people) take for granted when I'm when reading.
So excited about The Death Cure! Thank you for giving away an early copy!
I love your books, but I tried to read "Matched" and I just couldn't get into it. I love that this series is a trilogy... seems like there are a lot of popular trilogies this year! Another book that your readers might like is "Divergent" by Veronica Roth, or, the "Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins.
I hope I win! :)
I love listening to podcasts during my commute to work. They keep me engaged!
As always, I love your fun sense of humor :).
I love that both podcasts made me miss English class so much, that I'm resisting the urge to answer this in essay form. Thanks!
Podcasts about books. That's always fun. I remember being there for a recording of Dan Well's and his crew's podcast. It was fun!
I loved how all of you talked about how a villain isn't really....good if you can't care about them. My favorite villain of all time is T-Bag from Prison Break because you have sympathy for him. A lot of sympathy.
It was fun to listen to. Good way to past the time.
mikko(dot)clubpenguin(at)gmail(dot)com
-Jackson
I'm a teacher, and I use that 'excuse' for why I read so many YA novels - I'm supposed to inspire a love of reading! It's vindication of sorts that there are other, important adults that also read this!
I love finding new books to read - can't wait to read Ally's books, and waiting not-very-patiently for Death Cure!
I liked your way of defining a plot-driven novel vs. character driven novel.
williamlake4@gmail.com
Thanks for the great giveaway!
I LOVED hearing that Ally is reading the Flavia de Luce novels!!!! Those are some of my favorite books, other than The Maze Runner and The Scorch Trials! I would LOVE LOVE LOVE you forever for an ARC of The Death Cure! I can't wait to read it! :)
hiii! I'm from peru! I love this books...but I can't participate in this concurs!!! good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The part that I especially liked about the podcast, was when you all were discussing plot versus character. As an asspiring writer, it was really interesting to hear the views each of you had about what was more important in a story, and how you all came to the conclusion that one without the other just wouldn't work. And I think that's the trick to it all...you can't just have an amazing plot or amazing characters. You have to have both. Otherwise, the part that IS amazing will just go to waste. there will be no point. so thanks for that topic discussion, it really made me think!
I love that comic books were mentioned, even if just for like 10 short seconds, hahaha.
I also liked the entire discussion about character vs. plot. How you guys discussed characters and how they intertwine with the plot, and about how characters and plot have to go together otherwise the story isn't going to work, character change, etc. There were some great writers' tips/structure tips in here which is really helpful for someone like me who's trying (key word, trying, aha.) to write a book.
Also, DARTH VADER & SEVERUS SNAPE WERE MENTIONED. +10 points. Hahaha.
dangerouspie@att.net
Loved how there is a former agent on the podcast! Every podcasters opinion is valuable and I'm listening every week for sure!
Oh and I'm 16 and fart jokes are just as funny as they have ever been!
hartbeau@hotmail.com
I like how you can listen to them! And like how they're not that long so it doesn't take e forever to read.
Loved the podcast!
I love them for the bus ride. very amusing.
The matched series is a favorite of mine. Oddly, Death Cure and Crossed were both a pre-order of mine until I realized it was holding up the rest of my book order. It would be great to get that advance copy.
The podcast was terrific and I love it that humor was a component. It is always terrific to hear from/about authors regarding their books.
Good Reading,
Sarah :)
I like that they went into the description of the book! And the fact that there is a chance of winning your book! :) haha
I love podcast! You can listen on iPhone!!!
Claire Guthrie
CMGuthrie@me.com
I learned about a couple of authors that I hadn't heard of before! (the ones you're doing the podcast with) And also about Allie Condie!! I'm halfway through Matched right now.
Also learned that your voice does NOT sound anything like i imagined it (Considering I was imagining the voice of the shank who narrated The Maze Runner, this isn't surprising) but it also doesnt sound weird or stupid.
I can't believe i'll probably have to wait another... (checks countdown widget)
34 DAYS
34 DAYS
34 DAYS
for the Death Cure.
God, that's a long time. When you've been waiting for a billion years already. ;D
(do I actually need to get down and do a little begging on hands and knees? Or do you get my hint? Lol jk)
Trish
Very cool! I always love to listen to people talk books--plus, your voice is perfect.
I'd love to win an ARC. I was supposed to get one from Emily Pourciau, but I can't reach her. :-)
Ally Condie!
I love both of y'alls books!
--Wait, what? Fart jokes? ;P
This podcast was actually quite interesting. It's surprising at how authors seem to get around and know and converse with one another. In a way, I was reminded of the term "guild". Like authors are a part of a special group with "connections".
With the words that centered on the plot and main character(s), I felt that, in my experience, I can relate to the character. With Thomas (in "The Maze Runner" Series) I was (still am) cheering for him the whole way because in some small way I knew how he felt.
Thanks for the chance to win! ~Caroline
imaginecaroline@comcast.net
Jammie, I knew you when!! Naomi would LOVE to have a copy so I enter and hope for her. Its been a pretty tough year.
Aubrey
The singings great lol
I enjoy hearing how writers balance plot and character. I am similar to Dashner, I will usually come up with an interesting plot or premise first. But when I start writing I let my characters off the leash so to speak to allow them to develop. If I need to change minor plot elements that fit my characters better as I write then I am open to those developments. Love the podcasy, keep up the good work!
It's cool hearing advice from published authors.
I learned that I must be pretty old since I know about Jughead comics.
I loved listening to the podcast overall. The whole experience made me feel so much more connected to current writers and authors that I adore. It was amazing to hear references to books that I've read and to things that I understand as a writer myself. I think that listening to these podcasts will help me grow as a writer and make me feel much more involved as a reader. I can't wait for more
(kristina.vallieres@gmail.com)
I listen the first podcast, is more funny to me, and I love the introduction about what can I expect about this, I like there’s a variety of books you show to the people, the short stories about all of you are funny, I love and I think is great that you guys took the time to do this for the fans, shared your time with us talks so good about all of you. James, your voice is not annoying, AND I LOVE THE GAMES OF THRONES TOO, God! Is so cool, and I’m going to buy it very soon. I learned there’s a chance for everything in the book world. So thank you for doing this for us! Can’t wait to The Death Cure and see the plan from WICKED! I don’t hate anything at all hahaha.
jules9203@hotmail.com
It is interesting to hear an authors take on developing a story. How there has to be a balance between plot and character development so that the reader can feel connected to the story. I also liked the discussion that each protagonist and antagonist in a story needs to have some sort of conflict within themselves if they are to be relatable and intriguing to the readers. It is fascinating to me to listen to this group of authors and think about how they had to build a story, from the ground up, with characters and plots that are fictional but at the same time so believable that the readers relate and become involved in the progression of development.
Oh and by the way, I was so glad that Ally was on this podcast. Matched has been on my reading list for a while and now I can't wait to read it!
mugsyv@gmail.com
Honestly? My favorite part is when you talk about Maze Runner! Is one of my favorite series, so I listen attentive and I think you do a great job in the whole world, suck an exquisite job, I think you’re the first male author I read. Now I’m trying with James Patterson, but yeah, definitely waiting for The Death Cure, can’t wait! I want some Brenda-Thomas ninja moves! I hate that seems eternity to October! :(
avriil13@hotmail.com
I learned that characters and plot are two pieces of the same whole. You can't have an intriguing plot and not characters that readers care about, and you can't have well rounded characters with a lacking plot. Together they create the story, not alone. I also learned, I tend to create the plot before I think of the characters. I really want to be an ya author!
I LOVED the part about talking about charachter and plot. when you dont care enough about the charachters in a book, you dont care about their plot. if one of the charachters is in a life or death situation, the suspense isnt there and you dont care if they die. i know ive read books like that without strong charachters, and i stopped reading the series.
Im sort of glad that you dont do more podcasts ...i would be completely addicted and not get any of my homework done for my classes, lol :) Well done. Cant wait to figure out what happens in the final book!!
I think its so true that no matter what, if you don't like the character, the books gonna suck. I like how you answer questions, that was very helpful. It's nice to hear your guys's opinions. I also loved the singing, even if it was only 2 words. :) The one problem is, its kinda hard to hear what Ally is saying. Overall, I enjoyed listening to the podcast, and I have definitely learned more about characters and plots.
The podcasts are funny. I hate that they are so short.
I thought you made an interesting point in the first podcast how people who read a book are usually reluctant to read another book by the same author if its supposedly for a "younger audience". After I read the Maze Runner I looked to see if you had written any other books. And as it turned out, you did. I was thrilled to see The 13th Reality, yet a little skeptical. I like so many other people was judging a book by its cover. (I really need to work on that)Despite my first reaction I got the first 13th Reality book and loved every bit of it! It's a shame that people miss out on reading that series because of the age group the book is type casted in. I’m glad I didn't miss out.
I love listening to authors discussing their books and writing styles and techniques. When I was 7 I was first really introduced to the world of fantasy and imagination. Growing up, I loved exploring these new worlds. And now, I am pursuing a career in high school English education. I enjoyed learning about ways of character development. It would be such a challenge to have to develop characters without memories. Learning about some of the process in developing that character was interesting. I would love to learn more and to have this book in my classroom because I feel like this series is can reach a wide audience of girls and boys and that is something I admire!
I know that I am not going to win but its worth a shot!!! I loved every part of both podcasts cant wait until next Monday when the next one comes out...Cant wait till October 11th for the last book to come out it just seems so far away :( Well Thanks for the chance to win such an awesome prize!!!
I always love hearing authors talk about their own books and get an idea of what they were thinking when writing it. I also love hearing authors talk about the books that they like to read. It makes it more like they're real people :P
Thanks for the awesome author talk :]
jasmineroster@gmail.com
I knew you were funny when it came to writing books, but i have to say your even funnier in real life ( well voice i guess) I was cracking up through both of the podcasts! Thank you for the weird looks and people thinking " wow this girl is truly nuts maybe she has the flare or something!"
Good luck and absolutely can't wait to read the next and neither can the rest of my class which i got to read all the books! :D
You sound much more relaxed in this episode. I'm looking forward to you guys finding your groove.
I've learned that Nathan might just join you and Jeff in the ranks of my favorite people. I like hearing you guys more often since I live so far away I can't see you very much.
The only two things that I did not like, as said by others here, is that there are not more podcasts and that they felt too short! I love hearing you all talk about all of that stuff. I just finished The Maze Runner, so I'm something of a newbie to anything to do with James Dashner, but I absolutely loved it! It is one of the best books/series I have read, and I have read many.
I also loved hearing Ally Condie, I also loved her book and didnt know until I listened to the podcast that her next book Matched is coming out November 1st. That is so close, I cannot wait!
The discussions about plot/character and 1st person vs. 3rd person was very interesting, being just a mere reader those things aren't something that I think about specifically. My favorite perspective would have to be 1st person, everything feels more personal more real, and for me you almost start to "be" that person. When a book really draws you in, at least for me, I feel I know this person as I would a best friend or sometimes, you actually start to feel like you are them. That being said, The Maze Runner was one of the few books I really enjoyed that was not in the 1st person, but like James said in the podcast, most of the time it almost was because a lot of what we heard or saw was still what Thomas saw or heard. I also found it interesting when James said something like, " the situation is the villain." It piques my interest and I feel I might know what he means but only just finishing The Maze Runner last night I could be wrong. I am going today to get the next book and I cant wait to see what happens! Thank you for writing this series :)
The Podcast's are great, keep em' coming! I cant wait to see what's next and who you have on there next. Thanks again!
Just listened to your discussion with Ally Condie - inspired! Thank you! I loved the discussion on third person vs. first person narratives.
I actually just listened to the audio of Matched and LOVED it! I would love to have a signed hardcopy of the book as well since it is such a beautiful cover - but I don't have a tweet account :(
But my boyfriend and I are SO excited for the Death Cure to come out, we listened to the audio of both the Maze Runner and the Scorch Trials and can't WAIT for the final installment! Please pick me for an advanced copy! I am a loyal Dashner fan!
Keep writing!
I really enjoyed the discussion between plot driven and character driven novels. It made me think of my favorite book to try to figure out if they were plot or character driven or both.
I enjoy the fact that this 'cast is MG/YA specific. I've never listened to a podcast that was staffed entirely by MG/YA authors.
kristy(at)looseleafep(dot)com
I love hearing what authors are reading, and the Jughead comics reference (Classic :) ).
I liked to see how cool it is for authors to actually take the time to do a podcast :)
love the podcast! thanks for the giveaway!
ala_tineh(at)hotmail(dot)com
I love hearing how the story/stories come about, either coming from a character or a story plot. I'm slowly working a book idea of my own so hearing how other authors approach a story/book is very helpful.Thank you!!
I just like the fact that I can hear from you without waiting for you to blog! Haha. Just kidding. You rock, sir! :)
First of all, I learned what podcast means! :D
As a brazilian girl, I was not familiar with the word. And, after listening to it, I realized that all those english classes and reading several books in english really paid off: I understood most of it. Result: I loved the podcast!!!!!!! It was really cool to hear great authors talking about plots and characters!!!
vfhirata@yahoo.com.br
My favorite part of the podcast was how you guys discussed plot driven books and character driven books.
I like how you guys talked about what books are classified in what age groups.
ashleynrayfiveatcomcastdotnet
-Ashley R.
I really like how Ally talked about the opening scene in Matched and that she knew she had to approach it in a certain way, so that we would believe it as readers. Something to think about when writing my own stories! Great podcast overall. Glad I listened in.
quailsrock23(at)yahoo(dot)com
i love your podcast, you guys talk talk about topics that i'm interested in and have thought about. Ally Condie was great too :D
I just love every part of the podcast! :P
i love the podcasts!
That was awesome! I loved the tips for writers. I liked the point that the readers have to like the character and characters can't be too perfect. I'm totally guilty of that. I also like the whole bit on the villains. I thought the comparison of first and third person was helpful, too. I will definitely try to fix my point of view in what I write.
seawriter95@gmail.com
Oh my goodness that was so amazing! I learned a lot, it was much better than I expected. (I wasn't expecting it to be bad by any means but it was just soo fantastic). I hope to be an author one day and I got so many great tips from you guys!You said things I never thought about. Like the whole plot vs. charecter thing. I never realized it but I do tend to focus either on the plot or the charecters and they should be entertwined. I think you guys made a good point when you said you need to be able to see whaere a charecter has grown and changes. And I loved what you said about villians, I never thought of them that way either. I loved that Ally Condie was on there, I loved Matched and I am sooo bumed I can't enter her contest! I don't have a twitter... You guys are so great together you all bring such cool points of view to the podcast!
penmaster97@gmail.com
P.S. I love jughead comics!!!!
I love podcasts! I love hearing an author talking about their work. And I love the opportunity to learn about new authors!
first time ever hearing about this,
its nice, different
kinda of like a radio just for authors :P
neat, i like it
Falisha
fosmondward@hotmail.com
love the podcasts. checking in!
I learned I could win a early copy of the death cure and I no long would need to wait to read it! Win your free book... I have a one track mind!
I learned that I am going to Amazon right now and downloading Matched to fill in the gap while waiting on The Death Cure.
I love everything about the podcast. It had a very fun mood to it.
Amazing! I love that you are reading GOT, that definitely catch me when I heard it, HBO has very good types of programs now in days, I just noticed the post and podcasts, I had to listen immediately and I must say it was fun and educational for me. I liked the fact that you are giving a copy of The Death Cure, I hope to be one of the lucky ones with my post. Hey! You say that I can say ANYTHING and win one copy! Just kidding :P About the podcasts, I was they taught me that you have two friends who are authors and their works are interesting, it’s the first time I heard about them, I like the fact that authors don’t stop being friends, often due to competition or whatever, I had heard previously about Matched, now I think I'll start reading as many people here say it. I like the way they carry out the podcasts, are dynamic, entertaining, nothing bored, I like you have guest authors! And do not be limited to a literary genre, I like the different variations of genres and the fact that you all speak of books, as planned a book, their characters, their plot, development, and how you compare them, I thought it was much easier, but I guess it's true, everything is perfectly planned, I also learned that there are many men who read Maze Runner, by the way, any news about the movie? I cannot wait! Less than a month to find out all his plans WICKED behind the hole story, I hope Tom and all his companions to escape unscathed, I hope you not killed Brenda is one of my favorites :(
Greeting from Mexico! Good luck!
xevilxqueenx@hotmail.com
Well first of all, I learned what a Judhead comic is! Never heard of it before. I really liked the discussion about protagonists and antagonists. What I don't like is the audio quality, but these podcasts just launched so I guess as time passes by you will find ways to tweak things and equalize the audio volumes/mics. Keep up the good work!!!!!
Gosh! I could go on and on about how great these podcasts were, but I'll TRY to keep it short! (:
On the first podcast I liked how y'all talked about the classifications of the books and how they fall into their category, and which books that are currently on y'alls nightstand. I also liked how you all talked about how any age could read any type of book. Im 15, and it doesnt bother me to read a Goosebumps book or a Magic Treehouse book(even though sometimes I do get made fun of). I also liked how y'all talked about the voice and how writers can remember their childhood too. I'm glad that I'm not the only one that thinks your not too old for a fart joke! Fart jokes are the best! I dont think I've ever listened to somthing that was both entertaining, easy to listen to, and educational! The ONLY thing I didn't like about the 1st podcast is that there was no singing and that James thinks he has a annoying voice(which you don't!!).
The only thing bad about the podcast was the sound, but the rest of the podcast was great! I liked the 2nd podcast a little better because Allie Condy was the guest! Allie Condy and her book Matched are both amazing, and I can not wait for the next book to come out!. I loved it when she told us about the proposal at prom, that was priceless! And I was so glad that my dad and I are not the only people in the world that know what Jughead Comics are! But the BEST part about the second podcast is when you talked about the Maze Runner! I was on the edge of my seat wishing that you could at least gave us 1 or 2 spoilers from the Death Cure. Oh well, I guess I'm going to have to wait until October for that one! Unless you feel very generous and let me win a copy! Hmmmmm, hopefully so! (;
God Bless!
faith4ever101@yahoo.com
I thought you made an interesting point in the first podcast how people who read a book are usually reluctant to read another book by the same author if its supposedly for a "younger audience". After I read the Maze Runner I looked to see if you had written any other books. And as it turned out, you did. I was thrilled to see The 13th Reality, yet a little skeptical. I like so many other people was judging a book by its cover. (I really need to work on that)Despite my first reaction I got the first 13th Reality book and loved every bit of it! It's a shame that people miss out on reading that series because of the age group the book is type casted in. I’m glad I didn't miss out.
I realize that this has already been posted, but I forgot to add my email, incase I....you know.....win. :)
lliuzza@yahoo.com
I really liked how the conversation of starting novels with a plot or character differs between authors. This was an incredibly interesting concept to me, as I am a more plot driven person when creating stories. However, I could also see how a writer could come up with a character and then create a story around that character. Regardless, it was an interesting conversation and one that I was fully engaged with. Dashner, you're the man. Can't wait for The Death Cure to be released, unless of course I win an advanced copy... hmmmmm...
I never realized how important it is in writing to have the main character change and evolve or the reader could lose interest. That was a great point and thinking back to Thomas in the Maze runner series how he is growing and changing so slightly is a big part of the appeal!
I really enjoyed the second blog. I never really hear about the making of books with the authors' perspective , and I thought it was quite nice. I especially liked some of the tips I got as a future author (fingers crossed).
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