Page Chewing

40 Episodes
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By: Steve

Page Chewing is where books, comics, and conversations collide. From in-depth chats with authors and artists to lively discussions with fellow readers, we explore the craft of storytelling, the worlds we love, and the ideas that stay with us long after the last page. 

Weekly Reading & Podcast Update | From Fantasy to Philosophy
Last Sunday at 10:00 PM

In this episode, Steve shares his weekly reading updates, discussing his current reads including 'House of Chains' and 'Outer Dark'. He reflects on his experience with comics, particularly 'Conan', and delves into the film 'Gandhi', analyzing Oscar trends from the 1980s. The conversation shifts to the joys of physical books versus digital media, exploring the challenges of supporting local businesses in a digital age. Steve also contemplates the importance of creating a personal soundtrack for life and the impact of literature on personal growth.

Amazon Affiliate links for items discussed:

Steppenwolf: https://amzn.to/441iEyd<...


Page Burners: House of Chains by Steven Erikson - Chapters 3 & 4
Last Saturday at 12:00 PM

In this episode of Page Burners, we dive into the intricate world of the Malazan series, focusing on chapters three and four of "House of Chains." Join Vallick, Shannon, and Steve as they explore the complex character development of Karsa Orlong, his evolving worldview, and the humorous yet profound dialogues that shape his journey. From the power of words to the recurring theme of chains, this discussion unravels the layers of Steven Erikson's storytelling. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights, humor, and a touch of nostalgia as we prepare for the next chapters. Don't miss out...


Exploring the Depths of B.R. Yeager's Negative Space with Carl D. Albert
Last Friday at 12:00 PM

In this conversation, Steve and Carl delve into the themes and intricacies of B. Yeager's book, Negative Space. They explore the unique prose style, character voices, and the nonlinear storytelling that creates a sense of despair and madness. The discussion touches on the eldritch forces at play, gnostic influences, and the existential themes that permeate the narrative. They also reflect on character arcs, the role of technology, and the symbolism within the book, drawing comparisons to other works and ultimately sharing their final thoughts on the impact of the story.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction...


Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 109
Last Thursday at 12:00 AM

In this episode of the Pick of the Week podcast, hosts Steve and Jarrod discuss their latest comic book picks, including Skin Breaker, Life 6, Powers 25, and more. They delve into the themes of each comic, exploring character development, storytelling techniques, and the impact of artwork. The conversation also touches on the nostalgia of classic comics, the significance of reprints, and the ongoing read-along of Frank Miller's Daredevil. The hosts share their thoughts on the evolution of comic storytelling and the importance of engaging narratives in the comic book medium.

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Weekly Reading & Podcast Update | Sick Week and Comic Book Reading
11/02/2025

In this episode of Page Chewing, Steve shares his experiences during a week of illness, discussing the books and comics he managed to read while bedridden. He dives into his favorite horror literature, explores the intricacies of manga, and highlights character-driven crime noir stories. Additionally, he reflects on the themes of cold war tensions in literature and shares his thoughts on recent film discussions. The episode concludes with a personal ghost story, adding a touch of the supernatural to the conversation.


Chapters

00:00
Welcome Back and Weekly Update

01:01<...


Page Burners: House of Chains by Steven Erikson - Prologue, Chapters 1 & 2
11/01/2025

In this episode, the group delves into the prologue and first two chapters of 'House of Chains,' the fourth book in the Malazan series. They explore the themes of exile, identity, and the complexities of Karsa Orlong's character. The discussion highlights the dynamics between Karsa and his companions, the Teblor culture, and the subversion of traditional barbarian tropes in fantasy literature. The participants share their insights and predictions, reflecting on the rich lore and character development that Erikson is known for. In this engaging conversation, the participants delve into the complexities of Karsa Orlong's character from the Malazan...


Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 108
10/29/2025

In this episode, Steve and Jarrod dive into their top 10 favorite horror comics, exploring various themes, characters, and storytelling techniques that define the genre. They discuss the impact of horror on comic storytelling, the evolution of horror comics, and the significance of art in conveying horror narratives. The conversation also touches on recent comic releases and the importance of story arcs in comics, culminating in a wrap-up of their recommendations for listeners.


Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Weekly Polls and Horror Books

02:40
Discussion on Favorite Horror Comics<...


Friday Conversation: The Legacy of Cold Fire: A Conversation with CS Friedman & Michael R. Fletcher | Ep 154
10/24/2025

In this engaging conversation, acclaimed authors CS Friedman and Michael R. Fletcher discuss the profound impact of Friedman's Cold Fire Trilogy on Fletcher's work, the challenges of adapting literature into other media, and the evolving landscape of the publishing industry. They delve into the complexities of character morality, the nature of evil, and the importance of reader interpretation. The discussion also highlights the significance of effective communication in writing and offers recommendations for fans of fantasy and science fiction.


CS Friedman: https://www.csfriedman.com/

Michael R. Fletcher: https://michaelrfletcher.com/

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Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 107
10/23/2025

In this episode, the hosts discuss various comic book titles, including Marvel's Ultimate Universe conclusion, the horror series '30 Days of Night', and the time travel story 'Temporal'. They also review 'Endeavor', 'Return to Planet Hulk', and 'Skin Police', highlighting the political themes in the latter. The conversation continues with 'Invincible Universe: Battle Beast', 'Conan the Barbarian', and 'Creeping Below', before wrapping up with 'Cul-de-Sac' and 'Terabytes'. The hosts also delve into the classic Frank Miller's Daredevil run, reflecting on its impact and storytelling.

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Weekly Reading & Podcast Update | The Cozy Vibes of Fall Reading
10/19/2025

In this episode, Steve shares his recent reading experiences, including reflections on dark themes in literature and the cozy vibes of fall reading. He discusses his engagement with manga and graphic novels, highlighting the challenges and rewards of these genres. The conversation also touches on the importance of authentic connections in author interviews and the burnout that can come from content creation. Steve reflects on the balance between audience expectations and personal enjoyment in his podcasting journey, concluding with a hopeful message for listeners.

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Friday Conversation: Jose’s Amazing Worlds of Fantasy | Ep 153
10/17/2025

In this engaging conversation, Steve and Jose delve into the multifaceted nature of horror, exploring what truly scares us and how personal experiences shape our perceptions of fear. They discuss the challenges of long fantasy reads and the fatigue that comes with them, while also highlighting the rise of indie publishing as a significant force in the literary world. The duo reflects on the evolution of booktube, noting a shift from traditional book reviews to more dynamic content. Finally, they tackle the ethics of wealth in society, particularly in relation to sports and entertainment, questioning the values that prioritize...


Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 106
10/15/2025

In this episode, the panel discusses various comic book titles, including their weekly picks and reviews. They delve into Alan Moore's critique of superhero stories, the evolution of themes in comics, and the nature of fandom. The conversation also covers specific titles such as Absolute Evil, Detective Comics, and the Punisher, highlighting both successes and disappointments in recent releases. The episode concludes with a look ahead to next week's reading.

Written review: https://pagechewing.com/all-that-we-see-or-seem-by-ken-liu-review/

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Weekly Reading & Podcast Update | All That We See or Seem Review
10/14/2025

In this episode, Steve reviews Ken Liu's latest novel 'All That We See or Seem', exploring its themes of technology, surveillance, and personal growth. He also discusses the disturbing elements of 'Negative Space' by B.R. Yeager, reflecting on the impact of streaming services on entertainment consumption, and shares his thoughts on a quote from 'Fight Club' regarding freedom and loss.

I misspoke during the episode, the book releases on the 15th of October. I thought today was the 15th.



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Panel Chewing: Berserk Volumes 40 & 41
10/12/2025

The conversation delves into the complexities of the manga Berserk, focusing on character development, psychological themes, and the narrative's darker elements. The participants discuss their thoughts on Volume 40, the significance of dream sequences, and the relationships between characters like Guts and Casca. Griffith's motivations and the implications of empire building are explored, alongside the role of humor in the series. The discussion culminates in reflections on the Golden Age arc and the future of Berserk as the group anticipates the next volume's release.

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Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 105
10/11/2025

In this episode of Panel Chewing, hosts Steve and Jared discuss their recent comic book readings, including the impact of Jim Shooter on the comic industry, the transition to Frank Miller's Daredevil, and their picks of the week. They reflect on classic comics like Superman and Batman, explore new titles like Endeavor and Good as Dead, and conclude with a deep dive into the iconic Dark Phoenix Saga from the X-Men. The conversation highlights the evolution of storytelling in comics and the significance of character development and artistic contributions.

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Quotes from the Second Apocalypse by R. Scott Bakker
10/10/2025

In this episode, the hosts delve into their favorite quotes from the Second Apocalypse series by R. Scott Baker, exploring themes of vengeance, morality, and the ambiguity of the text. They discuss the significance of hope and regret in history, the role of teachers in learning, and cultural interpretations of hell. The conversation highlights the complexity of ignorance and certainty, showcasing the depth of Baker's writing and its philosophical implications. In this conversation, the participants delve into the intricate themes of power, knowledge, and the human experience. They explore how power can be both a source of safety and...


Weekly Reading & Podcast Update | Navigating Life and Literature
10/05/2025

In this episode, Steve shares his recent reading experiences, including the Malazan series and Ken Liu's upcoming novel. He discusses various comics, upcoming reads, and reflects on social media's impact on society. The conversation also touches on film reviews, including 'The Deer Hunter' and the disappointing series 'Alien Earth'. Steve promotes a friend's new book and emphasizes the importance of unplugging from social media.

Pre-Order Carpentry in the Elven Forest: www.thedeepdarkscave.com


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Panel Chewing: Berserk Volume 39
10/05/2025

This conversation delves into the intricacies of Berserk volume 39, exploring character dynamics, artistic evolution, and thematic depth. The participants discuss the significance of the World Tree, the Oracle's mysteries, and Griffith's ambitions, while also reflecting on Casca's character and the implications of the dream sequence. The conversation highlights the tension between Guts and Griffith, as well as the uncertain role of the Elf Kingdom in the overarching narrative.

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Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 104
10/01/2025

In this episode of the Pick of the Week podcast, hosts Steve and Jarrod discuss their weekly comic book picks, delve into classic comic runs, and provide in-depth reviews of recent releases. They explore the ongoing X-Men saga, particularly the Dark Phoenix storyline, and share their thoughts on various titles, including their picks of the week. The conversation highlights the challenges of maintaining quality in comic storytelling and the impact of nostalgia on their reading choices.

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Unpacking Violence and Humanity in Cormac McCarthy's 'The Crossing' with Carl D. Albert
10/01/2025

In this conversation, Steve and Carl D. Albert delve into Cormac McCarthy's 'The Crossing,' the second book in the Border Trilogy. They explore the thematic parallels between this book and 'All the Pretty Horses,' focusing on the coming-of-age journeys of the characters, the inherent violence in humanity, and the symbolism of nature, particularly through the character of the wolf. The discussion also highlights the contrasting paths of the brothers Billy and Boyd, the impact of tragedy on their lives, and the cultural reflections of America and Mexico within McCarthy's narrative. The conversation concludes with a deep appreciation...


Page Burners: Blood Follows by Steven Erikson
09/27/2025

In this episode of Page Burners, the hosts delve into the novella 'Blood Follows' from the Malazan series, discussing character dynamics, humor, and the implications of necromancy. They explore the cliffhanger ending, the setting of Mole, and the mysteries surrounding the protagonist Reese's family. The conversation highlights the blending of horror and humor in the narrative, as well as connections to the broader Malazan lore. In this conversation, the participants delve into the intricate themes of necromancy, folklore, and character dynamics within the Malazan universe. They explore the connections between water and the undead, the gothic tropes reminiscent of...


Panel Chewing: Berserk Volume 38
09/27/2025

In this episode, we dive into the intricate world of Berserk Volume 38, exploring the complex dynamics of Griffith's rule and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Join Steve, Dan, Joe, and Varsha as they unravel the layers of Griffith's ambitions, the implications of his actions, and the ongoing debate about redemption and intention. With insights into the manga's pacing, character development, and the broader themes of power and consequence, this discussion offers a thoughtful examination of one of manga's most compelling narratives. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of Berserk and the questions it raises...


Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 103
09/24/2025

In this episode, Steve and Jarrod discuss their comic book collections, the challenges of selling comics, and share their thoughts on various recent comic book releases. They explore surprising values in their collections, review several titles including 'Buried Long Long Ago', 'Survive', 'King Spawn', and 'CalExit', and conclude with their picks of the week. The episode also features a read-along discussion of 'Uncanny X-Men', highlighting character development and storytelling.

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Panel Chewing: Berserk Volumes 35, 36 & 37
09/21/2025

In this conversation, the hosts delve into the intricacies of Berserk volumes 35-37, discussing character development, narrative progression, and the impact of time on the story. They explore the significance of the pirate arc, Guts' struggles with his identity and the use of the Berserker armor, and the themes of humanity and monstrosity. The role of side characters and the return of familiar faces are also examined, alongside the enigma of Griffith's power and the uncertain future of the series.

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Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 102
09/17/2025

In this episode of Panel Chewing, hosts Steve and Jarrod discuss their latest comic book picks, including Absolute Martian Manhunter, The War, and the Uncanny X-Men series. They delve into the art and storytelling of various titles, compare the current state of Marvel and DC comics, and share their thoughts on new releases. The conversation culminates in a deep dive into Uncanny X-Men issues 130 and 131, exploring character developments and plot twists. The episode wraps up with a call for listeners to join in on the reading and share their feedback.

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Panel Chewing: Berserk Volume 34
09/14/2025

In this discussion, the group delves into the complexities of Berserk Volume 34, focusing on Griffith's ambitions, the nature of reality, and the moral dilemmas surrounding his actions. They explore the evolution of monsters and apostles, the implications of the astral realm, and the overarching themes of sacrifice and heroism within the narrative. The conversation highlights the intricate storytelling and character development that define the series, while also addressing the philosophical questions raised by Griffith's choices and the consequences of his actions.

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Page Burners: Full Series SPOILER Memories of Ice Malazan Discussion
09/13/2025

In this episode, the hosts delve into the intricate world of the Malazan series, focusing on key themes and character arcs from 'Memories of Ice'. They explore the significance of Dragnipur, the nature of chaos, and the complexities of characters like Bellerden and Draconis. The discussion also touches on the legacy of the Bridgeburners and the emergence of the Bonehunters, as well as the emotional weight of character deaths and the narrative purpose of the Crippled God. Through their analysis, the hosts highlight the rich storytelling and thematic depth that define the Malazan series. This conversation delves into the...


Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 101
09/10/2025

In this episode, Steve and Jarrod discuss the current state of the comic book industry, focusing on the resurgence of comics, the challenges faced by new readers, and the impact of digital accessibility. They review various comic books, including Green Lantern, Superman, and X-Men, while sharing their thoughts on the evolving landscape of comic storytelling. The conversation also touches on the importance of pacing in comic series and the effects of delays on reader engagement. Finally, they share their picks of the week, highlighting standout issues and themes.

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Weekly Reading & Podcast Update | Burnout and New Reads
09/07/2025

In this episode, Steve shares personal updates, including his recent travels and health challenges. He reflects on his reading journey, discussing books like 'Cities of the Plane' and 'Memories of Ice,' while expressing feelings of burnout from fantasy genres. He introduces upcoming reads and podcast plans, highlights his favorite comics, and discusses films like 'Rocky' and 'Annie Hall.' The conversation shifts to the impact of AI on Hollywood and content creation, followed by a brief mention of fitness tracking devices and insights into the publishing industry.

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Panel Chewing: Berserk Volume 33
09/07/2025

In this conversation, the hosts delve into Berserk Volume 33, exploring character dynamics, relationships, and the evolving narrative. They discuss the significance of ship battles, the art style, and Guts' internal struggles. The conversation also touches on Griffith's manipulative nature, the theme of sacrifice, and the transformation of Kanishka. Speculations about future volumes and the convergence of storylines are also highlighted, providing a comprehensive overview of the themes present in this volume.

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Panel Chewing: Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 100
09/04/2025

In this celebratory 100th episode of Panel Chewing, hosts Steve and Jared reflect on their journey through comic book discussions, share insights on recent releases, and delve into the nuances of superhero narratives and anthologies. They explore the evolution of characters, the impact of storytelling in comics, and the significance of thematic elements in series like X-Men. The episode wraps up with a look ahead to future reads and a heartfelt thank you to their listeners.

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Panel Chewing: Berserk Volume 32
08/31/2025

In this conversation, Steve and Varsha delve into Berserk Volume 32, discussing its themes, character developments, and artistic elements. They explore Griffith's political maneuvers and the implications of his actions, the evolution of characters like Guts and Farnese, and the overall aesthetic of the manga. The discussion also touches on the nature of evil, the role of humor, and the anticipation of future conflicts, all while reflecting on the deeper themes of power and redemption within the narrative.

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Panel Chewing: Berserk Volume 31
08/24/2025

In this conversation, the hosts delve into the latest volume of Berserk, exploring its themes, character dynamics, and the influence of Indian mythology. They discuss the tonal shifts in the narrative, the moral complexities of characters, and the strategic elements in combat. The conversation also touches on the nature of evil within the story, the role of Griffith amidst the Kushan invasion, and the artistry that defines the series. As they reflect on character growth, particularly Guts and Casca, they ponder the future directions of the story and the potential for deeper character arcs.

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Page Burners: Memories of Ice by Steven Erikson | Chapters 25 & Epilogue
08/23/2025

In this episode, the hosts delve into the final chapters of 'Memories of Ice,' exploring character arcs, themes of motherhood, death, and redemption. They discuss the complexity of tracking characters in the Malazan series, the impact of chaos magic, and the moral implications of forgiveness and punishment in a world filled with dark histories. The conversation highlights the intricate relationships between characters and the overarching themes that define the Malazan universe. In this conversation, the participants delve into the themes of redemption, justice, and the nature of evil within the Malazan series. The discussion also touches on the...


Panel Chewing: Berserk Volume 30
08/17/2025

In this conversation, the group discusses Berserk Volume 30, exploring themes of dark humor, character development, and the pacing of the story. They delve into the dynamics between characters, the art and design elements, and the implications of magic and monsters within the narrative. The discussion also touches on Griffith's manipulative role and the nature of power and evil, leading to predictions about future developments in the series.

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Crafting Worlds: Thomas J. Devens on Fantasy, Magic, and Storytelling
08/15/2025

In this engaging conversation, author Thomas J. Devens discusses his works, including the 'Vermin of the Old Empire' series and 'The Fall of Emros.' He shares insights into his writing process, the transition from novels to novellas, and the importance of character development and death in storytelling. The discussion also touches on the challenges of self-publishing, the role of magic in his world-building, and the impact of reader engagement on his writing. The conversation concludes with a look at future projects and the evolving landscape of fantasy literature.


Find Thomas: https://linktr.ee...


Panel Chewing Weekly Pulls - Pick of the Week | Episode 99
08/15/2025

In this episode, Steve and Jarrod delve into the world of comics, focusing on the concept of annuals and their significance in long-running series. They discuss their favorite picks of the week, including various new releases and their thoughts on the current comic book landscape. The conversation also touches on the X-Men series, particularly Claremont's run, and the impact of storytelling and artwork in comics.

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Exploring Cities of the Plain by Cormac McCarthy: Chapters 7 - 14
08/13/2025

In this episode, Steve discusses the concluding book of the Border Trilogy, 'Cities of the Plain.' He reflects on the narrative's key events, including the tragic story of John and Magdalena, the significance of various scenes, and the overarching themes of change and the passage of time. The conversation delves into character relationships, particularly between John and Billy, and concludes with a poignant reflection on the trilogy's ending and its emotional impact.

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Weekly Reading & Podcast Update | The Border Trilogy Read Along Update
08/10/2025

In this episode of Page Chewing, Steve discusses his recent readings, including the Border Trilogy and Memories of Ice, while reflecting on the differences between audio and physical books. He shares insights on character deaths in literature, highlights a unique comic book, and reviews classic films from the Oscars project. Additionally, he touches on his fitness journey and the impact of AI on entertainment, predicting future trends in the industry.

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Panel Chewing: Berserk Volume 29
08/10/2025

In this conversation, Steve, Joe, and Varsha discuss Berserk Volume 29, exploring its themes, character dynamics, and the evolution of relationships. They delve into the smaller stakes of this volume compared to previous ones, the development of characters like Isidoro and Griffith, and the role of magic in the story. The discussion also touches on the political intrigue surrounding alliances and the anticipation of future conflicts, all while appreciating the artwork and humor present in the volume.

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