I'm in shock that you made a video about JCO... that is not even 10 minutes long. This video made me so happy as hearing you talk about books and authors you're passionate about always cheers me up ^^
Yes! I literally came on the Internet today just to Find someone who shared a deep love of Joyce Carroll Oates’ writing. Was introduced to her in high school through speech and debate and have been reading her works ever since.
Well you’ve come to the right place and you’re very welcome! 😄 I’ve been a huge fan since reading her books at university and feel so lucky I’ve had the chance to interview JCO multiple time on my channel. I’m always happy to discuss certain books by her or her work in general.
I live in Istanbul, and haven't found a writing/reading community -- yet. So, I absolutely love your channel. I didn't think I could be so motivated to read a novel -- and I just downloaded the Grave Digger's Daughter. Thank you!
I’m so happy to be reading Joyce Carol Oates , she is a great author and I’m thrilled! I feel like you do and I want to read all of her books! I so agree!
A couple of years ago I went to the Brooklyn book festival because I heard Karl Ove Knausgaard was there. The event was held in a church and there was a line to get in. When I did get in the church it was packed so I went up to the balcony and walked toward the stage, so impressed that he drew such a huge audience. I looked over the railing and sitting next to him was Joyce Carol Oates and I realized why the place was packed to overflowing. Where are you going....is one of the best short stories every.
I literally started A Book of American Martyrs earlier today, pure serendipity. It's my first JCO and I decided to pick it up in great part because of how often and how enthusiastically you mention her here! Pretty much every time I hear the plot for one of her books I think "wow, that sounds like something I'd love" so I'm finally taking the plunge with this one.
Im not much of a reader but in 7th grade I opened up "First love" during homeroom and finished it after the last bell rang that same day, I want even the last student out of class. I felt it was such an achievement, even if I didn't really understand the abusive content.
I’m now going to start the gravediggers daughter, I also have Blonde and we were the Mulvaneys! I’m glad you recommended this so Thankyou Eric, I enjoy your channel!
As one of your many subscribers who you’ve convinced to reevaluate various presumptions about JCO and actually give her a try, I would say you don’t talk about her enough on your channel! I smiled all the way through this. I will be so curious to hear your final thoughts on her latest novel, and I was pleased to discover just now that Scribd has the ebook of The Gravedigger’s Daughter so that will probably be the next one of hers that I try. Loved this.
Okay... expect a video about JCO every 3 days then. 😂 Seriously, thank you so much and it meant so much to me you took a punt on reading her based on my (persistent) recommendation. Yay, snap up that Scribd copy! I think you'll really like The Gravedigger's Daughter as well.
I have her book ZOMBIE. About to start reading it. I have not read any of her books before so eager to dig in. I just heard about a new TV series coming out based on her book BLONDE.
In 1973 I audited a course at West Point on Western Intellectual history. One of our assignments was to choose an author from among six suggestions. We then read three books from our chosen author for discussion. I chose JCO although there were not as many books to choose from at that time. The professor suggested her because she was writing in an important way about our society. My favorite at that time was THEM. By the way, the professor, named Josiah Bunting, had also published fiction himself.
I’m doing a reread on Joyce Carol Oats, the novella, Called Beasts nobody’s talked about it yet. I have read many of her works Blonde, where are you going? Where have you been?, We were the Mulvaneys., and many more.
A few years ago I met JCO through a storybook that in Spanish is called "Pequeñas avalanchas". His writing impressed me and aroused some anguish about the protagonist, the places and how situations occur. Until now, I have given myself the opportunity to discover what other people have to say about her and I am happy to find someone who conveys so much emotion and reaffirms my thoughts about her work.
Eric Karl Anderson I accidentally read “Them (#2,I think)” before I knew it was part of the series. I am waiting for Garden of Earthly Delights to arrive now. 😊
I saw her ad for Masterclass and became intensely interested in reading her cause i just loved the way she talked about writing and stories. But had nooo idea where to start so that's what brought me to your channel. Still have no idea what book of hers to read first as she has written so many, but the ones you mentioned here sounded interesting to me so, we'll see...
I loved Trespasses. Bringing The Troubles into a deeply personnel story of relationships was impactful. The Marriage Portrait was also well done. As a woman, stories in that time period always leave me with a pit in my stomach. Demon Copperhead was incredible. I was so sucked in. I could see The Bandit Queens being selected. It was a unique story. I didn't get along with I'm A Fan. I read Memphis a while back and enjoyed it. Next up is Glory. I'm having fun reading books from the prize lists - and hearing your thoughts on them. It leads me to authors I may not have picked up. I will say that sometimes I need to read light, fun, quick books in between some of these heavy stories to reset.
Good to hear about your progress reading through the list! I’m so glad you found Demon Copperhead so powerful. Hopefully you’ll find Glory compelling. And I know what you mean about needing some lighter reading after novels about weighty subjects.
I'm nearly finished with her journal (The Journal of Joyce Carol Oates 1973-1982) and it's so insightful - she really is persistent and would work tirelessly on a novel until she was finished. I've read so many of her books but actually haven't read The Gravedigger's Daughter yet - I'll definitely put it on my list. Thanks for sharing this!
The first JCO book I read many years ago was "Expensive People." After that I have kept reading her books. As much as I love many of Oates' novels I believe she is a master of the short story. You (Eric) probably know that "My Life as a Rat" is the novelization (?) of her short story "Curly Red." I've read both and "Curly Red," to me, is perfection. "My Life as a Rat" tries to fill in more of the main character's life but it doesn't need filling.
Oh wow this is great Eric, I am also a huge fan of her work. JCO and John Irving are 2 of my favorite authors. I have Beasts on my summer TBR, I like her dark and gothic stuff. And I’m picking up her new one when I get a new coupon at B&N. I am headed to your beginners guide, can’t get enough of her. You should do a JCO book club!
So loved this homage to JCO and how nice to see she signed one of your copies! I've said before I am a huge fan and working my way through her long list. If there was nothing else left to read I would be content to just read JCO till the end of my days! Blonde is waiting for me next after a few others at the moment. There is something in You Must Remember This that sticks with me as my favourite, what a story! She has influenced my own writing immensely but in a way, I think, that allows my own voice to emerge. I imagine she's must be a great teacher. Enjoyed reading The Faith of A Writer. What you said about the excitement of reading someone like her now in her own lifetime, as a comparison to reading Dickens or others when they were alive is so true. It feels like such a privilege. If there one writer I would love to meet it would be her but I feel I would be so starstruck I would be at a complete loss of words. Thanks so much for this vid on her, a nice way to start my day. Will stop now and say happy birthday to her on Twitter!
That's so great to hear, Kelly. Her dark/gothic fiction is truly amazing and chilling. Hope you enjoy her new novel and a book club is a tempting idea! 😄
Hi Eric, I recently discovered your channel. I am 3/4 of the way in The Gravedigger's Daughter. I absolutely love it. My first JCO, and def not the last. Thank you for this video and first book recommendation. Have a healthy and peaceful 2021!
Hi! I read Where Are You Going Where Have You Been? for college and was impressed by her writing. It was also based on an incident that happened in my own town, which I found interesting. I haven't read her extensively, but that short story was good and spooky and I'd like to read more.
Thank you for pointing out some of her works to start with. She has quite the catalog of books! I will look into Gravediggers Daughter as my first JCO. :)
Well, I'm the perfect audience for this video, because these *were* my questions. I've read one novel (about Woodrow Wilson & demons (?) at Princeton) which didn't draw me in because of all the real-life characters which kept throwing me out of the story. Also a short story about a young girl home alone & a guy who wants to take her for a ride in his car. Wow, that was scary. But I've always meant to give JCO another try (or two) & you've just given me the means to do that. Thank you!
Glad I could help! Yes, the novel The Accursed mixes in historical figures. If you'd liked the gothic element to that novel but would like to read one of her books without any real historical figures you could read Mysteries of Winterthurn. And her stories are excellent - I'd recommend her short story collection 'I Am No One You Know' Hope you find more you enjoy!
Well thought out video. I would say that my favorite would be Joseph finder he has a unique way of writing a story that we've heard multiple times but does it in a different way that makes it interesting.
I've only read her book of short stories called 'Lovely, Dark, Deep' which I thought was absolutely incredible. Definitely need to read more of her work - thanks Eric for the recommendations!
I actually noticed recently that my library has a lot of JCO books so I was already thinking of checking her out - the library is a great way to try before you buy an author's works. Thanks for this very timely video. I love how enthusiastic you are about your favourite author!
@@EricKarlAnderson The MasterClass is wonderful. The format is very intimate and the workbook is really great. The All Access Pass is worth it. I felt like I know the teachers by the end of the class. Have taken JCO, Neil Gaiman, Margaret Atwood and David Sedaris for writing so far, but keep coming back to Joyce's.
Thanks for this video. My first JCO read was The Falls which I loved, and I have read about 20 of her books since then, my favourites being Rape A Love Story, Black Girl White Girl, Gravediggers Daughter, and the recent American Martyrs was terrific but overlong.
Thanks for making this video! I’ve been wanting to read something from JCO since I started following you, but I didn’t know where to start! Also, in a completely unrelated note, your Moomin flower pot is the cutest thing I’ve ever seen
Just discovered this video and channel. Great stuff. I too am a HUGE Joyce Carol Oates fan! I am currently reading her upcoming novel, NIGHT SLEEP DEATH THE STARS, for review & it is divine!
Very pleased to meet you! That's fantastic. I have a copy of the new novel but haven't started it yet. I'll need to make time since it's huge, but I'm looking forward to it so much. Even amongst JCO fans it seems to be considered her best novel in years!
I don't know who you are Eric Karl Anderson, but you seem like really nice. I've only read two of JCO's books, but I think I'm going to check out whatever book you recomend at the end of this video, just go you seem so stoked to be talking about it.
Great video, Eric. I haven't read anything she's written yet so thanks for the invitation and recommendation. I want to read one of her books before the end of this year.
I'm taking a Creative Writing class and her story "Heat" is in our recommended reading. She's pretty rad. I like to know about the authors that I'm required to read about so I'm glad I found your video. I saw where she talked about how the character Rebecca in The Gravedigger's Daughter was loosely based off of her grandmother. She's a fascinating lady.
I don’t think JCO could have a better advocate than you! I remember watching the video you published three years ago so I had to check out this updated version. I’ve only read them, Blonde, and a couple of other shorter books by her. the Gravedigger’s Daughter might be my next read of hers.
Hurray! Another JCO video! I’ve been meaning to finally read one of her books, and this may finally be the time that I do 🙂 I loved how animated and happy talking about JCO makes you - especially in this video! Hopefully I will be able to hold her flag along with you shortly!
Such a great video! Thank you for the overview, the passion and the suggestion for an entry point! I've always been overwhelmed by sheer number of books -- what if I pick the wrong one? I feel like I can give J-Co a shot now, armed with your video.
Always happy to hear about JCO - no complaints from me! I haven't read a lot of her books - about 5 or 6 but the two that stick out for me is We Were the Mulvaneys and Black Water. They are so completely different it's hard to believe they are written by the same person! I really really want to read her first book, which was also an award winner - Them.
Thank you and yes, those are great. "them" was actually her 4th novel but it was one of her first big successes because it won the National Book Award. Her first published book was a book of short stories - "By the North Gate"
I have My Sister, My Love and a short story collection called Lovely, Dark, Deep (I believe that’s the correct title) by her, but haven’t read them yet. I will pick one up this summer in honor of her birthday.
Ooh yes, that's a really powerful harrowing novel and I think the stories in that collection are just brilliant. I didn't even mention what a fascinating short story writer she is - it's where she often experiments the most with form.
I finished my first JCO novel - _Hazards of Time Travel_ - just today. I loved the first half, but the second half fell apart for me. Nonetheless, I like her prose style a great deal and will try another.
Thanks Eric, good video, just looked her up on Wikipedia, did you know there's another book due out this year 'The Pursuit' and another earmarked for publication next year? I've not read any of her books yet and was surprised to see how much she's written just under her own name, let alone her other pen names too, which I'd never heard of and wouldn't have made any connection to her. I've only heard of a a few of her books. But that happens with so many writers that some of their titles are more famous than others.
JCO is like a more literary Stephen King. Her output is insane for the quality imo and no they aren't all masterpieces, but I enjoy her style and prose enough that I've never regretted reading one of her books or gave up on one.
I was trying -and failing- to find a book by here to read after my first failed attempt with Zombie due to odd translation, but everything I was drawn to was too big to start with and I couldn't figure it out. She only has 2 translated works and I can't believe she wrote over a hundred! Great video, I'll try your recommendation.
I've read a couple of JCO books- but have bought quite a number more. I remember Zombie as being extraordinary. I'd love to revisit it. Have you read that one?
Yes, Zombie is so fascinating. I remember her saying she wanted to write a book from the perspective of someone who doesn't necessarily think in terms of language but more in symbols and images. A great challenge! But I think she conveyed his perspective and the horror of how he didn't feel empathy for his victims.
So, I finally picked up my first JCO, which was The Accursed simply because it was calling to me in a bookstore and I loved the Gothic description. I absolutely LOVED it and when I learned she had an entire "gothic saga" I almost had a joyful heart attack. I recently finished Bellefleur and it was easily one of my favorite books of all time, I am quite obsessed. So, clearly I'm going to read the whole Gothic saga, but after that, what do you recommend for me? Still Gravedigger's Daughter? Or something else? Great video as always! Love your channel
I read my first JCO a couple of weeks ago - the collection Night Gaunts and Other Tales of Suspense. The ones you've mentioned sound so interesting, I'm looking forward to picking up Marya especially and hopefully very soon. Great video!
I’m a fairly new JCO fan. I read American Appetites a few years ago. The wide variety of her material plus different narrative methods gives me a little pause. As my concentration is not as apt after head injury I listen to most books I read. I enjoyed My Life As a Rat Immensely and started the book a second time as soon as I finished it. So glad to find your channel. Do you have a suggestion for another of JCO set between late twentieth century and now ? Thx for what you do. 😊🙏
I think we should always unapologetically champion our favourite authors, and I'm sure your enthusiasm will encourage other people to read JCO. I have only read one of her books so far, which I really liked - The Garden of Earthly Delights. It reminded me of East Of Eden. On my TBR I have Bellefleur (which sounds completely crazy and gothic) and A Book of American Martyrs. I'd love to know what you thought of Bellefleur if you have read it :)
Thanks! Yes, that was one of her early novels and I think those showed her influences (like Steinbeck) a lot more. Bellefleur is so brilliant and fascinating - it is a wild gothic ride fully of lots of intriguing mysteries and suspense as well! I do love a family saga and this is one of the best ever in my opinion.
@@EricKarlAnderson hi Eric, thanks heaps for sharing your thoughts on Bellefluer. I have moved it up my TBR.. definitely sounds like something I will really enjoy. I love how she's such a diverse writer. I just bought Blonde as well this week. That cover 😍😍😍
I read every JCO novel through BLACK GIRL, WHITE GIRL in 2006 or so and then I quit. Although she is a gifted stylist, the characters often seem skewed, distorted, artificial and the plots didn't follow a reasonable trajectory. I always felt dismal after finishing a novel of hers. I don't seek fatuous happy endings at all but a nominal sense of reality. After watching your reviews and finding your enthusiasm infectious, I am tempted to try again. Thank you.
I've never read her, apart from a short story or two during my undergrad. You make me want to read some of her novels finally. I think I've had a very different idea about what her writing is, compared to what you describe here.
Thank you for the video I wanted to find out who she was my friends are getting happy bc she is on Twitter they didn’t know @ JoyceCarolOats anyways this is just the info I was looking for so this is like perfect. Thanks for sharing something you love with us that makes me really happy too and I am going to get one of her books on audiobook from the library when I finish you video bc I am getting *excited by your enthusiasm*
I’ve just discovered her and read five of her books in a week! I want to read all her books! She is so special.
I'm in shock that you made a video about JCO... that is not even 10 minutes long. This video made me so happy as hearing you talk about books and authors you're passionate about always cheers me up ^^
😂 And thank you!
Yes! I literally came on the Internet today just to Find someone who shared a deep love of Joyce Carroll Oates’ writing. Was introduced to her in high school through speech and debate and have been reading her works ever since.
Well you’ve come to the right place and you’re very welcome! 😄 I’ve been a huge fan since reading her books at university and feel so lucky I’ve had the chance to interview JCO multiple time on my channel. I’m always happy to discuss certain books by her or her work in general.
@@EricKarlAnderson I just got a twitter and started following her. The first post was a takedown of one of my film favorites. Love it!
Your enthusiasm is contagious! I hope to read something of hers this year.
👍
I live in Istanbul, and haven't found a writing/reading community -- yet. So, I absolutely love your channel. I didn't think I could be so motivated to read a novel -- and I just downloaded the Grave Digger's Daughter. Thank you!
Great! Hope you enjoy it!
I’m so happy to be reading Joyce Carol Oates , she is a great author and I’m thrilled! I feel like you do and I want to read all of her books! I so agree!
A couple of years ago I went to the Brooklyn book festival because I heard Karl Ove Knausgaard was there. The event was held in a church and there was a line to get in. When I did get in the church it was packed so I went up to the balcony and walked toward the stage, so impressed that he drew such a huge audience. I looked over the railing and sitting next to him was Joyce Carol Oates and I realized why the place was packed to overflowing. Where are you going....is one of the best short stories every.
I literally started A Book of American Martyrs earlier today, pure serendipity. It's my first JCO and I decided to pick it up in great part because of how often and how enthusiastically you mention her here!
Pretty much every time I hear the plot for one of her books I think "wow, that sounds like something I'd love" so I'm finally taking the plunge with this one.
Wow! It was meant to be. That's great to hear and I hope you enjoy it.
Im not much of a reader but in 7th grade I opened up "First love" during homeroom and finished it after the last bell rang that same day, I want even the last student out of class. I felt it was such an achievement, even if I didn't really understand the abusive content.
I just discover Joyce Carol Oates and I find her, and her stories amazing. Also this man is adorable.
I received for Christmas and am currently reading Cardiff, By the Sea and am enjoying it.
LOVE LOVE LOVE. You will forever be the person who got me to pick up Joyce Carol Oates. Thank you.
Eric, your passion is so beautiful and soothing. Thanks for sharing this lovely video.
Thanks for saying so!
I am just discovering JCO; currently reading The Gravedigger’s Daughter. I’m enjoying it very much. Thanks for.introducing her writing to me Eric!
That’s great to hear! I’m so glad you’re enjoying her writing.
I’m now going to start the gravediggers daughter, I also have Blonde and we were the Mulvaneys! I’m glad you recommended this so Thankyou Eric, I enjoy your channel!
As one of your many subscribers who you’ve convinced to reevaluate various presumptions about JCO and actually give her a try, I would say you don’t talk about her enough on your channel! I smiled all the way through this. I will be so curious to hear your final thoughts on her latest novel, and I was pleased to discover just now that Scribd has the ebook of The Gravedigger’s Daughter so that will probably be the next one of hers that I try. Loved this.
Okay... expect a video about JCO every 3 days then. 😂
Seriously, thank you so much and it meant so much to me you took a punt on reading her based on my (persistent) recommendation.
Yay, snap up that Scribd copy! I think you'll really like The Gravedigger's Daughter as well.
Every three days? Don’t threaten me with a good time! 😜
I have her book ZOMBIE. About to start reading it. I have not read any of her books before so eager to dig in. I just heard about a new TV series coming out based on her book BLONDE.
In 1973 I audited a course at West Point on Western Intellectual history. One of our assignments was to choose an author from among six suggestions. We then read three books from our chosen author for discussion. I chose JCO although there were not as many books to choose from at that time. The professor suggested her because she was writing in an important way about our society. My favorite at that time was THEM. By the way, the professor, named Josiah Bunting, had also published fiction himself.
I’m doing a reread on Joyce Carol Oats, the novella, Called Beasts nobody’s talked about it yet. I have read many of her works Blonde, where are you going? Where have you been?, We were the Mulvaneys., and many more.
A few years ago I met JCO through a storybook that in Spanish is called "Pequeñas avalanchas". His writing impressed me and aroused some anguish about the protagonist, the places and how situations occur. Until now, I have given myself the opportunity to discover what other people have to say about her and I am happy to find someone who conveys so much emotion and reaffirms my thoughts about her work.
0:24 so cute! Haven't read her yet - will fix at some point.
😄
Love Joyce 😊 The Falls and Them was great as well. I am reading the rest of her Wonderland quartet now. All her books are great ❤️
It's such an excellent series and I think the novel actually called Wonderland is my favourite from that group.
Eric Karl Anderson I accidentally read “Them (#2,I think)” before I knew it was part of the series. I am waiting for Garden of Earthly Delights to arrive now. 😊
I saw her ad for Masterclass and became intensely interested in reading her cause i just loved the way she talked about writing and stories. But had nooo idea where to start so that's what brought me to your channel.
Still have no idea what book of hers to read first as she has written so many, but the ones you mentioned here sounded interesting to me so, we'll see...
I love you you are such a positive and smily person!
Thank you! ☺️
I loved Trespasses. Bringing The Troubles into a deeply personnel story of relationships was impactful. The Marriage Portrait was also well done. As a woman, stories in that time period always leave me with a pit in my stomach. Demon Copperhead was incredible. I was so sucked in. I could see The Bandit Queens being selected. It was a unique story. I didn't get along with I'm A Fan. I read Memphis a while back and enjoyed it. Next up is Glory.
I'm having fun reading books from the prize lists - and hearing your thoughts on them. It leads me to authors I may not have picked up. I will say that sometimes I need to read light, fun, quick books in between some of these heavy stories to reset.
Good to hear about your progress reading through the list! I’m so glad you found Demon Copperhead so powerful. Hopefully you’ll find Glory compelling. And I know what you mean about needing some lighter reading after novels about weighty subjects.
Her literary criticism and her recent poetry collection are well worth reading, as well.
Well, Eric, I never have read her but she is now on my list of writers to seek out. Many thanks
Great! Hope you enjoy her books
I'm nearly finished with her journal (The Journal of Joyce Carol Oates 1973-1982) and it's so insightful - she really is persistent and would work tirelessly on a novel until she was finished. I've read so many of her books but actually haven't read The Gravedigger's Daughter yet - I'll definitely put it on my list. Thanks for sharing this!
Wonderful! Yes, the Journals are so thoughtful. I’m glad you’re enjoying them.
Wow! This is great! I’m so excited for Part 2!
The first JCO book I read many years ago was "Expensive People." After that I have kept reading her books. As much as I love many of Oates' novels I believe she is a master of the short story. You (Eric) probably know that "My Life as a Rat" is the novelization (?) of her short story "Curly Red." I've read both and "Curly Red," to me, is perfection. "My Life as a Rat" tries to fill in more of the main character's life but it doesn't need filling.
Terrific introduction to Joyce Carol Oates, I will definitely try out her novels. Thank you.
So happy to hear this , I also love Joyce Carol Oates. I’m. Reading accursed right now! Thankyou
Wonderful! That's such a wild gothic novel.
Oh wow this is great Eric, I am also a huge fan of her work. JCO and John Irving are 2 of my favorite authors. I have Beasts on my summer TBR, I like her dark and gothic stuff. And I’m picking up her new one when I get a new coupon at B&N. I am headed to your beginners guide, can’t get enough of her. You should do a JCO book club!
So loved this homage to JCO and how nice to see she signed one of your copies! I've said before I am a huge fan and working my way through her long list. If there was nothing else left to read I would be content to just read JCO till the end of my days! Blonde is waiting for me next after a few others at the moment. There is something in You Must Remember This that sticks with me as my favourite, what a story! She has influenced my own writing immensely but in a way, I think, that allows my own voice to emerge. I imagine she's must be a great teacher. Enjoyed reading The Faith of A Writer. What you said about the excitement of reading someone like her now in her own lifetime, as a comparison to reading Dickens or others when they were alive is so true. It feels like such a privilege. If there one writer I would love to meet it would be her but I feel I would be so starstruck I would be at a complete loss of words. Thanks so much for this vid on her, a nice way to start my day. Will stop now and say happy birthday to her on Twitter!
That's so great to hear, Kelly. Her dark/gothic fiction is truly amazing and chilling. Hope you enjoy her new novel and a book club is a tempting idea! 😄
I have read several of JCO's books, been a fan of hers for decades.
Great video.. well done.. big JCO fan here
Hi Eric, I recently discovered your channel. I am 3/4 of the way in The Gravedigger's Daughter. I absolutely love it. My first JCO, and def not the last. Thank you for this video and first book recommendation. Have a healthy and peaceful 2021!
That’s great to hear! I’m so glad you’re enjoying it and will read more. Happy New Year!
Hi! I read Where Are You Going Where Have You Been? for college and was impressed by her writing. It was also based on an incident that happened in my own town, which I found interesting.
I haven't read her extensively, but that short story was good and spooky and I'd like to read more.
Have never even thought about reading JCO before but your passion and belief in her has made me incredibly eager to start
Hooray!
Thank you for pointing out some of her works to start with. She has quite the catalog of books! I will look into Gravediggers Daughter as my first JCO. :)
Thank you for such a thoughtful description of this author and her work!
You're welcome! 📚
Well, I'm the perfect audience for this video, because these *were* my questions. I've read one novel (about Woodrow Wilson & demons (?) at Princeton) which didn't draw me in because of all the real-life characters which kept throwing me out of the story. Also a short story about a young girl home alone & a guy who wants to take her for a ride in his car. Wow, that was scary. But I've always meant to give JCO another try (or two) & you've just given me the means to do that. Thank you!
Glad I could help! Yes, the novel The Accursed mixes in historical figures. If you'd liked the gothic element to that novel but would like to read one of her books without any real historical figures you could read Mysteries of Winterthurn. And her stories are excellent - I'd recommend her short story collection 'I Am No One You Know'
Hope you find more you enjoy!
Well thought out video. I would say that my favorite would be Joseph finder he has a unique way of writing a story that we've heard multiple times but does it in a different way that makes it interesting.
I've only read her book of short stories called 'Lovely, Dark, Deep' which I thought was absolutely incredible. Definitely need to read more of her work - thanks Eric for the recommendations!
Another fantastic video Eric 👍😊☺️
I actually noticed recently that my library has a lot of JCO books so I was already thinking of checking her out - the library is a great way to try before you buy an author's works. Thanks for this very timely video. I love how enthusiastic you are about your favourite author!
Yes, that's a great way to try an author's work and then you can just fill your own shelves with the authors you love! Hope you enjoy JCO's books. 😀
You are adorable. Diving into my 1st JCO read today!
Thank you Eric. I can't get enough of JCO, since taking her Masterclass. I had not read anything of hers before if you can believe that)!!
So glad you've discovered her books. How did you find the Masterclass? I've been curious to take it.
@@EricKarlAnderson The MasterClass is wonderful. The format is very intimate and the workbook is really great. The All Access Pass is worth it. I felt like I know the teachers by the end of the class. Have taken JCO, Neil Gaiman, Margaret Atwood and David Sedaris for writing so far, but keep coming back to Joyce's.
Thanks for this video. My first JCO read was The Falls which I loved, and I have read about 20 of her books since then, my favourites being Rape A Love Story, Black Girl White Girl, Gravediggers Daughter, and the recent American Martyrs was terrific but overlong.
Thanks! That's great to hear. Yes, The Falls has such a striking opening and a really powerful story.
Thanks for making this video! I’ve been wanting to read something from JCO since I started following you, but I didn’t know where to start!
Also, in a completely unrelated note, your Moomin flower pot is the cutest thing I’ve ever seen
Just discovered this video and channel. Great stuff. I too am a HUGE Joyce Carol Oates fan! I am currently reading her upcoming novel, NIGHT SLEEP DEATH THE STARS, for review & it is divine!
Very pleased to meet you! That's fantastic. I have a copy of the new novel but haven't started it yet. I'll need to make time since it's huge, but I'm looking forward to it so much. Even amongst JCO fans it seems to be considered her best novel in years!
Eric Karl Anderson yes! I hope you enjoy the new novel. I don’t want it to end :)
I don't know who you are Eric Karl Anderson, but you seem like really nice. I've only read two of JCO's books, but I think I'm going to check out whatever book you recomend at the end of this video, just go you seem so stoked to be talking about it.
Great video, Eric. I haven't read anything she's written yet so thanks for the invitation and recommendation. I want to read one of her books before the end of this year.
Thanks and I really hope you do!
I'm taking a Creative Writing class and her story "Heat" is in our recommended reading. She's pretty rad. I like to know about the authors that I'm required to read about so I'm glad I found your video. I saw where she talked about how the character Rebecca in The Gravedigger's Daughter was loosely based off of her grandmother. She's a fascinating lady.
I don’t think JCO could have a better advocate than you! I remember watching the video you published three years ago so I had to check out this updated version. I’ve only read them, Blonde, and a couple of other shorter books by her. the Gravedigger’s Daughter might be my next read of hers.
Thank you! :)
My first novel I read of JOC was WONDERLAND....her masterpiece.
Such a good book! I vividly remember several scenes from it.
Hurray! Another JCO video! I’ve been meaning to finally read one of her books, and this may finally be the time that I do 🙂
I loved how animated and happy talking about JCO makes you - especially in this video! Hopefully I will be able to hold her flag along with you shortly!
Thanks Eric, for the video
Really great video, I'm looking to expand on JCO after reading Hazards of Time Travel.
Also, can I just say I love your Moomin vase!
Thanks!
Such a great video! Thank you for the overview, the passion and the suggestion for an entry point! I've always been overwhelmed by sheer number of books -- what if I pick the wrong one? I feel like I can give J-Co a shot now, armed with your video.
That's so great to hear! Hope you enjoy her books.
Great video! Very helpful. : )
I got an ad for JCO's masterclass at the start of this video...coincidence?
Always happy to hear about JCO - no complaints from me! I haven't read a lot of her books - about 5 or 6 but the two that stick out for me is We Were the Mulvaneys and Black Water. They are so completely different it's hard to believe they are written by the same person! I really really want to read her first book, which was also an award winner - Them.
Thank you and yes, those are great. "them" was actually her 4th novel but it was one of her first big successes because it won the National Book Award. Her first published book was a book of short stories - "By the North Gate"
New follower here, right now I'm thanking the Gods for your channel.
Thanks so glad you're enjoying it!
I got into JCO because you kept mentioning her. ☺
Hooray! 😀
I have My Sister, My Love and a short story collection called Lovely, Dark, Deep (I believe that’s the correct title) by her, but haven’t read them yet. I will pick one up this summer in honor of her birthday.
Ooh yes, that's a really powerful harrowing novel and I think the stories in that collection are just brilliant. I didn't even mention what a fascinating short story writer she is - it's where she often experiments the most with form.
Happy Bloomsday 🌹☘️🌸🍀
Happy Bloomsday to you too! 😄
I finished my first JCO novel - _Hazards of Time Travel_ - just today. I loved the first half, but the second half fell apart for me. Nonetheless, I like her prose style a great deal and will try another.
oh interesting! That's a very different kind of novel for her. Hope you find one of her other books to enjoy.
You are a JCO-fan? I had no idea. LoL. Can't wait to hear your take on Life As a Rat!
😂
I see her quite a bit at charity stores. I may have to pick them up as I see them.
Snap up a bargain! 😄
Thanks Eric, good video, just looked her up on Wikipedia, did you know there's another book due out this year 'The Pursuit' and another earmarked for publication next year? I've not read any of her books yet and was surprised to see how much she's written just under her own name, let alone her other pen names too, which I'd never heard of and wouldn't have made any connection to her. I've only heard of a a few of her books. But that happens with so many writers that some of their titles are more famous than others.
JCO is like a more literary Stephen King. Her output is insane for the quality imo and no they aren't all masterpieces, but I enjoy her style and prose enough that I've never regretted reading one of her books or gave up on one.
Oates sounds interesting.Ive bought Blonde, and now have the gravediggers daughter on my tbr. Thanks Eric!
Wonderful! I hope you enjoy them.
I have only read We were the Mulvaneys and thought it was brilliant. I really have to read some of her other novels.
Great! Hope you find more of her books you like.
I've never read any of her books however after watching this video I'll have to pick one up.
*My Life as a Rat* I love the book 🇧🇷 👊🏾
Where can I get Greg Johnson’s biography? The one place I found it, it was exorbitantly priced!
You do you, Eric! You're the JCO king. Lol sending 💘
😇🤗
Everybody!!!!!!!!! Read Bellefleur. It’s the best of jco. It’s the best of all it’s the first one I read absolutely phenomenal I promise
I was trying -and failing- to find a book by here to read after my first failed attempt with Zombie due to odd translation, but everything I was drawn to was too big to start with and I couldn't figure it out. She only has 2 translated works and I can't believe she wrote over a hundred!
Great video, I'll try your recommendation.
Thanks! ☺️
I also heard that JCO ~loves~ playing video games 👾
Shhh! 🤫
Blonde is an ICONIC novel!
I have met Joyce Carol Oates 2 times. I have read about 4-5 fiction and non-fiction books. Articles in NY Review of Books.
She's such an inspiration!
I have been reading JCO for years. I have 36 of her books. I highly recommend Daddy Love and Zombie.
Those are great (though VERY dark)
Daddy Love will always haunt me.
I've read a couple of JCO books- but have bought quite a number more. I remember Zombie as being extraordinary. I'd love to revisit it. Have you read that one?
Yes, Zombie is so fascinating. I remember her saying she wanted to write a book from the perspective of someone who doesn't necessarily think in terms of language but more in symbols and images. A great challenge! But I think she conveyed his perspective and the horror of how he didn't feel empathy for his victims.
So, I finally picked up my first JCO, which was The Accursed simply because it was calling to me in a bookstore and I loved the Gothic description. I absolutely LOVED it and when I learned she had an entire "gothic saga" I almost had a joyful heart attack. I recently finished Bellefleur and it was easily one of my favorite books of all time, I am quite obsessed. So, clearly I'm going to read the whole Gothic saga, but after that, what do you recommend for me? Still Gravedigger's Daughter? Or something else? Great video as always! Love your channel
I read my first JCO a couple of weeks ago - the collection Night Gaunts and Other Tales of Suspense. The ones you've mentioned sound so interesting, I'm looking forward to picking up Marya especially and hopefully very soon. Great video!
Thank you! Hope you enjoy Marya.
I’m a fairly new JCO fan. I read American Appetites a few years ago. The wide variety of her material plus different narrative methods gives me a little pause. As my concentration is not as apt after head injury I listen to most books I read. I enjoyed My Life As a Rat Immensely and started the book a second time as soon as I finished it. So glad to find your channel. Do you have a suggestion for another of JCO set between late twentieth century and now ? Thx for what you do. 😊🙏
That's great you've been reading more of her work! Another I'd suggest is A Book of American Martyrs or Marya: A Life.
Excellent! Thx so much
I think we should always unapologetically champion our favourite authors, and I'm sure your enthusiasm will encourage other people to read JCO.
I have only read one of her books so far, which I really liked - The Garden of Earthly Delights. It reminded me of East Of Eden.
On my TBR I have Bellefleur (which sounds completely crazy and gothic) and A Book of American Martyrs. I'd love to know what you thought of Bellefleur if you have read it :)
Thanks! Yes, that was one of her early novels and I think those showed her influences (like Steinbeck) a lot more.
Bellefleur is so brilliant and fascinating - it is a wild gothic ride fully of lots of intriguing mysteries and suspense as well! I do love a family saga and this is one of the best ever in my opinion.
@@EricKarlAnderson hi Eric, thanks heaps for sharing your thoughts on Bellefluer. I have moved it up my TBR.. definitely sounds like something I will really enjoy. I love how she's such a diverse writer. I just bought Blonde as well this week. That cover 😍😍😍
I read every JCO novel through BLACK GIRL, WHITE GIRL in 2006 or so and then I quit. Although she is a gifted stylist, the characters often seem skewed, distorted, artificial and the plots didn't follow a reasonable trajectory. I always felt dismal after finishing a novel of hers. I don't seek fatuous happy endings at all but a nominal sense of reality. After watching your
reviews and finding your enthusiasm infectious, I am tempted to try again. Thank you.
I've never read her, apart from a short story or two during my undergrad. You make me want to read some of her novels finally. I think I've had a very different idea about what her writing is, compared to what you describe here.
A rare instance where I was disappointed to see a video is under 10 minutes. 😁
Ha! If only I'd have known you'd want more I'd have talked for HOURS!
The nerd level of this video is great.
So Donna Tartt cannot be that passionate about her writing... 😬
Mumin!
Gore Vidal spoke unkindly ofJCO. I think she is verbose and her novel THEM was grim.
Vidal had an interesting point of view but he was unfairly unkind about many people. I would take his gossip with a pinch of salt.
Thank you for the video I wanted to find out who she was my friends are getting happy bc she is on Twitter they didn’t know @ JoyceCarolOats anyways this is just the info I was looking for so this is like perfect. Thanks for sharing something you love with us that makes me really happy too and I am going to get one of her books on audiobook from the library when I finish you video bc I am getting *excited by your enthusiasm*