When a reader thinks about fantasy books, there are probably specific images that are evoked in the reader’s mind. Magic, for sure. Probably some dragons. Hobbits and wild mythologies. Maybe even some fairies, right?

None of these things appear in Susanna Clarke’s praised and prized fantasy novel Piranesi, but it is absolutely one of the finest examples of the genre. Following our titular main character has he navigates an endless museum with three floors (one the ocean, one the clouds, and one his home, filled with sculptures and birds of all kinds), Piranesi grasps readers from the start with his curious writing style, earnestness and curiosity. But Piranesi isn’t completely alone in this House, and his curiosity leads to an incredible mystery for the ages.

Although fantasy’s stories are often beyond our world, they grasp firmly at many of the same issues we “normal humans” face: mental health is an unfolding theme in Piranesi, as are identity and trust. These core themes transcend the endless hall of clouds and rain, and leave readers with the sense that they too have visited the House, its Beauty immeasurable and its Kindness infinite.

In this episode, we’re digging deep into the Women’s Prize-winning novel, analyzing Piranesi’s motives and choices, as well as discussing our personal relationships with fantasy. We’re also offering ideas for the way to visually adapt Piranesi, so CD Projekt, if you’re listening…