A Feast of Words: Short Stories & Poems to Enjoy Anytime episode artwork

EPISODE · Sep 8, 2025 · 1H 7M

A Feast of Words: Short Stories & Poems to Enjoy Anytime

from A Toast to The Arts · host Big Blend Radio Network

Welcome to the debut episode of our new series, A Feast of Words, airing in honor of National Literacy Month! This episode is a must-listen for both readers and writers alike, as we celebrate the power of storytelling and the written word. We've gathered a diverse group of acclaimed authors to share their work and discuss the art of autobiographies, short story collections, and poetry. Our conversation explores the influence of literary giants like Jack London, the role of anthologies in fostering new voices, and the importance of community and editing in a writer's journey. Tune in to discover fresh narratives across a wide range of genres. Featured Guests & Books - CLIFFORD GARSTANG - Award-winning author, writer, and editor shares from his short story collection “House of the Ancients and Other Stories.” More: https://cliffordgarstang.com/house-of-the-ancients-and-other-stories/    - DIANE DOBRY - Travel writer and memoirist shares her “Happy New Year in Budapest” story from the collection “A Pocketful of Dreams.” Read her story: https://gettinghungary.com/happy-new-year-in-budapest/    - LINDA BALLOU – Travel writer and fiction/non-fiction author shares from her essay “Jack London and Me,” which is in the 2024 San Francisco Writer’s Conference Anthology. Learn more,get book links, and hear Linda's full podcast episode about Jack London: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/linda-ballou-jack-london-and-me/  - HEIDI SANDER – Canadian travel writer, educator, and award-winning poet, shares from her poetry collection “Stratford Gems Book 1: A Poetic & Photographic Journey of Stratford.” * More: https://pages.heidisander.com/books/ and https://www.heidisander.com/ - MATT COST – Award-winning author of mystery and history, Matt discusses his story “Dead Men Don't Kiss” featured in the “Celluloid Crimes” anthology, available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Celluloid-Crimes-Deborah-Well/dp/B0FNPHXDZD * More: https://mattcost.net/ - EVA ELDRIDGE - Travel writer, book industry expert, editor, and co-President of Tucson Sisters in Crime, talks about two anthologies she curated. Both books are available on Amazon: * Trouble in Tucson: https://www.amazon.com/Trouble-Tucson-Coast-Crime-Anthology/dp/B0BTRPH84K  * Feisty Felines: https://www.amazon.com/Feisty-Felines-Other-Fantastical-Familiars/dp/1680576194  * More: https://evaeldridge.com/ and https://3sides2authorservices.com/  * Tucson Sisters in Crime: https://www.tucsonsistersincrime.org/  - SUZANNE FLAIG – Mystery writer and author, talks about two anthologies she is part of. The books are available on Amazon: * Mystery Most Humorous: https://www.amazon.com/Donna-Andrews-Presents-Malice-Domestic-ebook/dp/B0F6KRMY7D * Danger Awaits!: https://www.amazon.com/SoWest-Sisters-Sleuths-Chapter-Anthology-ebook/dp/B0FNS2H162 * More: https://www.suzanneflaigwriter.com/ - ARYN YOUNGLESS – Writer, indie publisher, and genealogist, discusses anthologies she is part of, including one she put together in high school. * “Made in L.A” and “A Night of Misfit Stories” anthologies: https://asyounglessauthor.com/read-me/ * “Echoes of the Youth” high school anthology: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084? params=ujFY7byK3uekkrw6NR3kIQNoGBES3ivK2SdcQjK09Lk * Genealogy Services: https://www.genealogybyaryn.com/    Key Takeaways for Writers & Readers - For Writers: Gain insights into the submission process for anthologies, the value of short story collections as a stepping stone, and the crucial role of editing. Learn about building a supportive community to help you on your creative journey. - For Readers: Discover acclaimed authors and fresh narratives across a variety of genres, including memoir, mystery, travel, and poetry. This episode will help you find your next favorite story. 

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Celebrate National Literacy Month with our brand-new podcast, ”A Feast of Words,” with eight authors who share short stories and poems.

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A Feast of Words: Short Stories & Poems to Enjoy Anytime

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