Why Tolkien Hits Different Than Brandon Sanderson

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Dave Butler, author of 20+ novels and editor-in-chief at Plain and Precious Publishing, to unpack what’s happening to modern fantasy, sci-fi, and storytelling as a whole. We dive into why so many stories today feel different… and whether something deeper has been lost. From the rise of “hard magic” systems popularized by Brandon Sanderson, to the growing influence of modern publishing trends, Dave makes the case that fantasy may be drifting away from its roots, away from mystery, meaning, and the kind of storytelling that shaped writers like Tolkien. We also explore: • Why modern fantasy often feels more mechanical than mythic • How publishing has changed (and who decides what gets published) • The challenge of finding trustworthy books for your kids • Why Tolkien still resonates in a way many modern stories don’t • And whether we’re starting to see a return to more meaningful storytelling If you’ve ever wondered why stories don’t feel the same anymore—or how to navigate what to read and recommend, this conversation is for you. Let me know your thoughts in the comments: Do you prefer “hard magic”… or something more mysterious? Chapters: 00:00 INTRO: Critiquing modern fantasy authors 06:55 Fantasy and sci-fi subculture origins 15:18 Evaluating ideological themes in books 16:37 Challenges of writing and publishing 29:32 Navigating the flood of books 35:03 Talking about Leonard Cohen songs 37:00 David Has some... thoughts on my boy Brandon Sanderson 45:18 Balancing magic in writing 58:47 Crossing the Barrow Downs 01:02:35 Sacred names and their power 01:04:40 Secret flame of the sun 01:12:55 Critiquing George R.R. Martin's writing 01:15:33 George Martin's novellas adaptations Find Dave Butler on X: https://x.com/DavidJohnButler Purchase "Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.co... Purchase "He Lives: A Rhyming Testimony of the Living Christ" https://plainandpreciouspublishing.co... Follow Me on Instagram   / smallsimplescreens   By Small & Simple Screens helps Latter-day Saints see what movies, books, and media are actually teaching about God, family, and the world… I analyze kids’ stories, symbolism, and storytelling patterns through a gospel lens—not to cancel culture or panic parents, but to help families raise discerning kids in a media-saturated world. Disclaimer: This channel and its content reflect my personal views and analysis as a Latter-day Saint parent, creator, and storyteller. It is not produced by, endorsed by, or representative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or its official teachings. Any references to doctrine, scripture, or Church publications are offered for discussion and personal study, not as official interpretation. CONTACT: [email protected] #mormon #lds #latterdaysaints