From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics. Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column?  Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.

Who

This week, we focus on well-known short story collections from notable US authors.

Some examples of influential short story writers include Jhumpa Lahiri, Ray Bradbury, Raymond Carver, James Badwin, Richard Yates, Ted Chiang, Shirley Jackson, and Ottessa Moshfegh.

What

Some examples of notable works include Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri, The October Country by Ray Bradbury, Will You Please Be Quiet, Please? by Raymond Carver, Eleven Kinds of Loneliness by Richard Yates, and Exhalation by Ted Chiang.

Other well-known short story collections include The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson, Homesick for Another World by Ottessa Moshfegh, Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri, and Going to Meet the Man: Stories by James Baldwin.

Where

Many of these works take place throughout the United States, throughout the world, in countries such as India, as well as throughout outer space.

When

These works were published in the 20th and 21st-centuries.

Why

The works may be of interest to AU students who would like to read a series of shorter texts on a variety of topics and themes, including grief, loneliness, love, family conflict, as well as gender, race, and class.

These works also cut across a variety of genres including literary fiction and genre fiction (science fiction and horror).

How

AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth. Courses related to the short story are available in a variety of disciplines, including those that may fit into your Degree Works. (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)

AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in ENGL 344: American Literature I, a senior-level, three-credit course, which “introduces students to American literature, its history and development, and its rich variety of forms and techniques.”  (Please note that this course requires ENGL 211: Prose Forms and ENGL 212: Poetry and Plays as prerequisites.)

Students may also be interested in the follow up ENGL 345: American Literature II, a senior-level, three-credit course, which “follows the introduction to American literature begun in ENGL 344. ENGL 345 continues the exploration of the history and development of American literature and its rich variety of forms and techniques.”  (As above, this course requires ENGL 211: Prose Forms and ENGL 212: Poetry and Plays as prerequisites.)  Happy reading!

From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics. Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column?  Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.

Who

This week, we focus on famed English science fiction writer, Arthur C. Clarke.

Clarke was born on December 16, 1917, in Minehead, Somerset, England and died on March 19, 2008, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where he had lived since 1956.

Although Clarke was a prolific writer of hard science fiction (novels and short stories) and non-fiction (scientific and technical works), he is best remembered for the multiple Oscar-winning film script (directed by notable US director Stanley Kubrick) and influential novel 2001: A Space Odyssey.

(Hard science fiction is defined as a subgenre within science fiction that focuses on “hard” sciences, such as physics, mathematics, and astronomy, as opposed to soft science fiction, which is concerned with “soft” sciences, such as politics, anthropology, and sociology, among others.)

During his lifetime, Clarke received numerous Hugo, Nebula, and Locus awards, which honour the best writing in science fiction.

What

Some examples of Clarke’s notable works include the Space Odyssey series (2001: A Space Odyssey, 2010: Odyssey Two, 2061: Odyssey Three, and 3001: The Final Odyssey), the Rama series (Rendezvous with Rama, Rama II, The Garden of Rama, and Rama Revealed), and Childhood’s End.

Other influential works include The City and The Stars, The Fountains of Paradise, A Fall of Moondust, and The Sands of Mars.

Where

Most of Clarke’s works take place throughout the solar system, including Earth, Mars, and the Moon.

When

The majority of Clarke’s works were published in the 20th century.

Why

Clarke’s fiction and non-fiction may be of interest to AU students who enjoy the hard sciences, such as physics, astrophysics, and mathematics, as the works often focus on a great deal of scientific detail. However, these works may be of interest to AU students who enjoy soft sciences as well, including psychology, sociology, and political science.

In addition, these works may appeal to AU students who would like a brief introduction to what is known as the Golden Age of Science Fiction (from the late 1930s to late 1940s). Other notable authors from this period include Isaac Asimov and Robert A. Heinlein.

How

AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth. Courses related to the works of Arthur C. Clarke are available in a variety of disciplines, including those that may fit into your Degree Works. (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)

AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in PHYS 204: Physics for Scientists and Engineers I, a junior-level, three-credit course, which is “an introductory calculus-based physics course recommended for science, engineering, and pre-med students.”  (Please note that this course requires MATH 260: Calculus for Social Sciences and Economics or MATH 265: Introduction to Calculus I ( as prerequisites.

In addition, students may also be interested in ENGL 387: Writing Speculative Fiction, a senior-level, three-credit course, which “develops speculative fiction (SF) writing skills through a combination of strategic study and writing activity.”  (Please note that this course requires ENGL 381: Creative Writing in Prose and course coordinator approval. as prerequisites.)  Happy reading!

The Voice Magazine

On a personal note, Hailey grew up in a small town in the interior of BC, where her life was split between her grandparents, her dad, and, when she wasn’t working in the Lower Mainland, her mom.”

She continued, “I spent a lot of time with my grandparents, learning from their experiences and ways of life. When my mom was home, our time together was cherished, but I understood the sacrifice her job called for in order to ensure a roof over mine and my brother’s heads. After moving to Surrey to be with my mom at 16 years old I learned the many lessons needed to become a responsible adult. Now, at 19, I live with my boyfriend, who also attends Athabasca University. Our life here feels like a blend of new adventures and familiar comforts.”

Hailey let us know a bit more about her educational journey. Post-graduation, “while my exact plans after graduation aren’t set in stone, I know I want to work with youth.”  She continued, “My goal is to give the kind of help and support I wish I had gotten during difficult times. Whether through counseling or mentorship, I strive to make a positive impact on young lives, helping them navigate challenges and develop the tools to thrive emotionally and mentally.”

She had some great study advice for fellow students. “What helps me stay on track while studying is writing down my study plans and making sure to include breaks for stress relief and mental health. Having a clear plan keeps me organized, and taking regular breaks helps me recharge my battery, making it easier to stay focused.”

She also had some insight for new learners. “For new students, I recommend making a study plan with clear goals and deadlines. This helps you stay on track and avoid rushing at the last minute. Take regular breaks to take care of your mental health and avoid burnout. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from teachers or friends when you need it. Having support is crucial. Lastly, be patient with yourself. Learning takes time, and it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. Focus on growing, and let your interests guide the way.”

When she is not studying, Hailey enjoys journaling, noting it helps her “reflect on my thoughts throughout each day, as well as reading in order to temporarily escape the stresses of the real world.”  She explained, “I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s going for walks or exploring nature. Having fun with my friends, boyfriend, and my dog is something I value, as it brings joy and balance to my life. These activities help me stay connected and recharge outside of my studies.”

She also enjoys reading, letting us know that the author H.D. Carlton has made an impact on her life. “Her books are both dark and deeply emotional, with a unique blend of romance, suspense, and personal growth. The complex characters she creates, specifically their struggles and vulnerabilities, made me think about how love isn’t always easy or perfect, it’s often messy and challenging. Carlton’s storytelling changed the way I view relationships, showing that love can be powerful and transformative, even when it involves pain and healing. Her work has made me appreciate the depth of real, raw connections between people.”

The Voice Magazine asked who in her life had the biggest impact on her desire to learn, and Hailey credited her mother. “She works as a paramedic, which means she has to keep learning all the time in order to help people. Watching her juggle her tough job while still caring for others showed me how important learning is. She always told me to ask questions, be curious, and keep improving myself. Her example made me realize that learning is something you can always do to make a difference, and that has stuck with me.”  Best of luck, Hailey!

At times, in an online learning environment, it can feel like you are all alone, but across the nation and around the globe, students just like you are also pursuing their Athabasca University (AU) studies!  Each week, The Voice Magazine will be bringing you some of these stories. If you would like to be featured next, do not hesitate to get in touch!

From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics. Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column?  Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.

Who

Inspired by last week’s column on the craft of writing in general, this week we focus specifically on writing science fiction (SF).

Examples of authors who have written about the craft of science fiction writing include Ursula Le Guin, Ray Bradbury, and Orson Scott Card.

In addition, many more authors and editors have contributed to understanding the conventions, storylines, and tropes of this genre.

What

Notable books detailing the craft of science fiction writing include How to Write Science Fiction and Fantasy by Orson Scott Card, Steering the Craft: Exercises and Discussions on Story by Ursula Le Guin, and Zen in the Art of Writing: Releasing the Creative Genius Within You by Ray Bradbury.

However, it is also important to read well-regarded anthologies, such as The Science Fiction Hall of Fame, Volume One, 1929-1964, edited by Robert Silverberg; popular science fiction magazines, such as Asimov’s Science Fiction and Analog Science Fiction and Fact; and consider science fiction awards, such as the Hugo Awards, and the Nebula Awards, and the Locus Awards; to fully understand the genre’s conventions.

Finally, it is crucial to read widely in hard science fiction (science fiction focused on the “hard sciences,” such as physics, astronomy, mathematics, etc.) and soft science fiction (science fiction focused on politics, psychology, sociology, anthropology, etc.). Of course, these sub-genres are much more complex than space in the column allows. Briefly, hard science fiction typically focuses more on realistic science, while soft science fiction is more concerned with character development and humanity.

Some examples of hard science fiction include the Foundation series by Isaac Asimov and 2001: The Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke.

Examples of soft science fiction include The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula Le Guin and The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury.

Other authors include Robert A. Heinlein, Philip K. Dick, and Octavia Butler.

While science fiction in the English-speaking world has been dominated by authors from the United States and the United Kingdom, there are also vibrant science fiction communities throughout Latin America (consider La vía del futuro (The Way of the Future) by Bolivian author Edmundo Paz Soldán) and Eastern Europe (consider Solaris by Polish author Stanisław Lem).

Where

Many of these works focus on science fiction in the United States and in the United Kingdom, as well as Bolivia and Poland.

When

These works were published from the 20th to the 21st centuries.

Why

The works may be of interest to AU students who would like to start writing their own science fiction short stories or novels or who would like to hone their science fiction writing craft. These books, anthologies, and magazines may also be of interest to students who are not familiar with this genre and would like a brief summary of some notable works.

How

AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth. Courses related to the craft of science fiction writing are available in a variety of disciplines, including those that may fit into your Degree Works. (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)

AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in ENGL 387: Writing Speculative Fiction, a senior, level, three-credit course, which “develops speculative fiction (SF) writing skills through a combination of strategic study and writing activity.”  (Please note that this course requires ENGL 381: Creative Writing in Prose and the permission of the course coordinator as prerequisites.)

Although it is listed as a prerequisite, students may simply be interested in ENGL 381: Creative Writing in Prose, a senior-level, three-credit course, which focuses on “your work and its development.”  (This course requires ENGL 211: Prose Forms, ENGL 212: Poetry and Plays, a grade of “B” in ENGL 353: Intermediate Composition, as well as the permission of the course coordinator as prerequisites.)

Students may also consider ASTR 310: Planetary Science, a senior-level, three-credit course, which focuses on “the physics of the Solar System.”  (This course requires ASTR 210: Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics, or several other options as prerequisites). Happy reading!

From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics. Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column?  Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.

Who

Let’s do something a little different this week. Instead of focusing on a particular author, genre, or theme, let’s consider the craft of writing in general.

Various successful authors have written books on this type of craft, such as Stephen King, Jhumpa Lahiri, Ursula Le Guin, Ray Bradbury, and Mary Karr, while many others have built successful careers on helping writers achieve their writing goals, such as William Strunk Jr.

What

Some well-known works related to the craft of writing include On Writing by Stephen King, The Art of Memoir by Mary Karr, In Other Words by Jhumpa Lahiri (please note that Lahiri’s work focuses more on translation), and The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr (which focuses on editing and style).

Other books include Steering the Craft by Ursula K. Le Guin and Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury.

Where

Most of these works mention a variety of geographical locations, including the United States, Italy, and England.

When

These works are fairly recent, published in the 21st century.

Why

The works may be of interest to AU students who would like to improve their fiction and non-fiction writing, improve their editing skills and style choices, and even consider the craft of translation.

How

AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth. Courses related to the craft of writing are available in a variety of disciplines, including some that may fit into your Degree Works. (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)

AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in ENGL 381: Creative Writing in Prose, a senior-level, three-credit course, which focuses on “your work and its development.”  Students are encouraged “to have a sound background in literature and proven essay-writing ability.”  (Please note that this course requires ENGL 211: Prose Forms and ENGL 212: Poetry and Plays, a “B” grade in ENGL 353: Intermediate Composition, and the permission of the course coordinator as prerequisites.)

As mentioned above, students may also be interested in  ENGL 353: Intermediate Composition, a senior-level, three-credit course, which “takes a practical approach to the art of essay writing by having students apply the major principles of composition in five essay assignments.”  (Please note that this course requires ENGL 255: Introductory Composition and  ENGL 211: Prose Forms as prerequisites.)  Happy reading!

The Voice Magazine recently had a chance to chat with Octavio Gouveia, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology student, currently living in Toronto, Ontario.  He stated, “I acknowledge that I live and work on the traditional lands of the Indigenous peoples of this area.”

On a personal note, Octavio is “a Brazilian-Canadian living in Toronto.”  He continued, “Although I have studied psychology and early childhood education in the past, I decided to pursue psychology in Canada to stay updated and to experience education at a Canadian university.”

He has some big plans post-graduation.  “After I complete my studies, I plan to apply my knowledge to support others, especially those with unique challenges like myself.”

Octavio had some great study tips for fellow AU learners.  “I study best in a structured environment with minimal distractions.  Setting specific goals keeps me motivated, and I often break my study sessions into manageable chunks.  I also find that using visual aids helps me absorb information better.”

He also had some good advice for new students and/or prospective students.  “Embrace your uniqueness, and don’t be afraid to advocate for your needs.  I wish I had known earlier that it’s okay to ask for accommodations.  Your differences can be a strength, so use them to your advantage.”

When he is not studying, he enjoys “watching TV shows and movies, reading, and having fun with [his] kids.”  He continued, “These activities help me relax and connect with my family.”

Octavio also enjoys reading, sharing several books that have made an impact on his life.  “One author who has significantly impacted my life is Brené Brown, mainly through her book Daring Greatly.  In this book, she explores the concepts of vulnerability and courage, emphasizing that embracing our imperfections is essential for living a fulfilling life.  Her insights helped me understand the importance of authenticity and connection, especially as someone navigating challenges related to my identity and experiences.”

He continued, “Additionally, Malcolm Gladwell’s Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking influenced my decision-making perspective.  Gladwell’s exploration of intuitive judgments and our quick assessments have helped me appreciate the complexity of human behaviour.  It encourages me to trust my instincts while being aware of how these snap judgments can impact my interactions with others.  These authors have provided me with valuable tools to navigate my personal and academic journey.”

As for the one person who has had the greatest influence on his desire to learn?  “I draw inspiration primarily from myself and my determination to overcome challenges.  As someone who navigates life with AuDHD, I have faced misunderstandings related to my condition.  Each challenge motivates me to prove that nothing can stand in the way of my success.”

And his experience with online learning so far?  “My experience with online learning has been quite positive.  I appreciate its flexibility, but I sometimes miss the interpersonal interactions in a physical classroom.  However, I find that online resources can be invaluable and accessible.”

The Voice Magazine also asked Octavio what his first project would be if he were the new president of AU.  He stated, “I would prioritize initiatives that enhance support for neurodiverse students and those from the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring that resources are available to help everyone succeed.”

We also asked which famous person, past or present, he would like to have lunch with, and why, and he chose singer Michael Jackson.  “I would enjoy discussing how his experiences can relate to resilience and overcoming challenges,” he explained.

As for his most memorable lesson learned in life?  “My most valuable lesson is that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.”  And his proudest moment?  “My proudest moment was successfully navigating a challenging situation that allowed me to advocate for myself and others with similar experiences.”

On a final note, Octavio added, “I am proud of my identity as an autistic person with ADHD and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.  My experiences have shaped who I am and drive my commitment to helping others who face similar challenges.”  Best of luck, Octavio!

At times, in an online learning environment, it can feel like you are all alone, but across the nation and around the globe, students just like you are also pursuing their Athabasca University (AU) studies!  Each week, The Voice Magazine will be bringing you some of these stories.  If you would like to be featured next, do not hesitate to get in touch!

The Voice Magazine recently had a chance to chat with Christine Sabourin (she/her), a 35-year old Bachelor of Arts in Psychology student from Cornwall, Ontario—“with roots from an even smaller township of Monkland, Ontario,” (where she spent her “formative years”).

She added, “I acknowledge and am grateful to live, learn, play, and work on the traditional territory of the Audenosaunee, Mohawk, Haudenosaunee, and Huron-Wendat.  This Territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties.”

Christine also mentioned, “I am passionate about being part of a diverse society where everyone can belong and have the right to exist.  I am an artist who likes to explore new ways to create, an avid P!nk fan, a skateboard enthusiast, and a nature/animal lover.  Psychology has been a fascination for me from a young age and I am proud to be further pursuing this interest at the academic level.”

As for her future plans?  “My plans are currently undetermined.  My greatest desire is to make a difference in this world and make the world a better place.  I would love to infuse my skills and knowledge in youth, the world of skateboarding, and those who feel unseen and unheard.  To let them know they have a place and belong,” she explained.

She also had some study tips for fellow AU students.  “My study habits vary.  At times I need absolute silence and other times I need noise.  I have been learning to pace myself, which has been an asset.  I enjoy being by the river or our local conservation area when the weather permits.  I set out goals as to what I want to accomplish or what needs to be completed.  I highlight the text in color-coded format during my readings to categorize the information.  I also make notes/or transcribe the applicable highlighted sections as much as possible, sometimes I fall short in this practice.  When I receive a good grade that helps to keep me motivated.  Seeing the work payoff is rewarding.  Sometimes I use external rewards, whether it is a treat, a trip to a skatepark, or if I reach this grade I can purchase a particular big ticket item.”

In addition, she had some great advice for new and/or prospective students.  “The advice I would give new students/or prospective students is time management skills are everything.  The process of learning can be taxing but it also can be enjoyed.  Investing in the joys of learning will help relieve some pressures.  I highly recommend familiarizing yourself with your learning style and using strategies that support the way you learn.  If pacing helps, pace on.  Try new methods of learning if you are not seeing the desired results, or tweak existing ones.  Ask for help, this is a hard one.  I struggle with this all the time, but anytime I have it has been beneficial.”

When this busy student is not studying, she is creating art “and going to events where [she] displays and sells [her] work through [her] small business Meraxic Creations.”  She continued, “I mostly work with mixed media, pyrography, and upcycled skateboarding products.  I love to create and do not limit myself to these mediums, the sky is the limit.  I enjoy being in nature, skateboarding, puzzles, and listening to music/going to concerts.”

As for her experience with online learning so far?  “The experience so far has been good.  It is challenging for me as I am more of an auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learner.  My most challenging aspect is the freedom to chip away at the course, mostly I love it as I can make it work with life obligations and work.  However, the inner procrastinator battles to delay the course progression.  Being no due dates, or professors in a class to guide, set and remind you of the expectations or due dates can be tough.  The accountability of course completion is fully on the student.  On the bright side, I see how this develops greater autonomy and character, which I am grateful for.”

Her most memorable AU course so far has been SOCI 301: Social Statistics.  “Being a person who does not enjoy math and requiring a math credit, my thought was let’s get this credit out of the way.  Looking through the options I figured okay, these other courses would probably be easier but this one, SOCI 301, would serve me best, not knowing what I was getting myself into.  I proceeded with enrollment and fees.  I then had a session with one of our guidance counselors, informing them of this they asked me why I would start my university career with the hardest course.  They kindly let me know that I could withdraw and suggested that I do so and start with an easier course to ease me in and get the feel.  I investigated this option as I realized the mistake I had made.  As I paid with a credit card there was a large amount that was not refundable.  For me, this was too much of a loss to bear, and thought I would have to grind it out.  I began the course and soon was like oh no what have I done at this point I was fully invested and there was no turning back.  I surprised myself, fully immersing myself in ensuring that I get through this with the hopes of never needing to do math again; I utilized the tutor service before submitting my assignments and further worked on them before submitting them, and one by one, they came back with 100%.  I could not believe it.  With the tests, I finished the course with an A.  Although the process was challenging, I got through.  It was an amazing boost in confidence, and I am still in awe of this experience.  It reinforces the saying, ‘We can do hard things.’”

Christine also had positive things to say about communication with her course tutors.  “Communication with tutors has been great thus far.  They have been responsive and helpful, they will provide their guidelines in what they are able and not able to assist with and provide resources to gain assistance with what they are unable to do as it conflicts with objectivity in grading.  For example, the use of Write Site in an English course.”

The Voice Magazine asked Christine what her first project would be if she were the new president of AU and she mentioned that she “would develop a Skateboarding Program.”  She explained, “With the sport reaching new heights and being inducted into the Olympics we can start new trends, new mindsets, and take the field by storm.  To build an elite program propelling talented skaters into the professional world would be groundbreaking.  To see skate teams competing like other sports at the post-secondary level would be revolutionary, while motivating a demographic that is often overlooked or cast aside.  I would also implement a research aspect diving into the benefits and effects this activity has on mental health, from the lens of community, personal development, and growth.”

We also asked which famous person, past or present, she would like to have lunch with, and why and she chose singer P!nk.  “I am a die-hard fan and have idolized P!nk since I was about 9 years old when she first came out.  I have been fortunate to experience her live in various venues over the years.  She is an inspiration, an anchor, a do-er, with vocals like no other; a true bad-ass.  There are so many conversations I would like to have with her and the opportunity to express my gratitude for the impact she made in my life.”

As a final note, we asked Christine about her most valuable lesson learned in life.  She stated, “The most valuable lesson I have learned in life thus far is that others will project their insecurities, limitations, and negativity onto you as though it’s about you, when in reality it’s about them.  It’s about their self-limiting beliefs, their incapacity to want to see you do better than them, and their excuses as to why it cannot be done to keep you small or to disempower you.  With the right people and support it is amazing what one can accomplish, don’t give up and keep working towards accomplishing your dreams.”

And her proudest moment?  “My proudest moment in my life would probably be August 21, 2010 when I was able to have my picture taken with P!nk.  I had spent five hours in the pouring rain in Niagara Falls, as she walked by me entering the event I asked if I could get a picture where she replied, ‘Ya, for sure,’ came back, and put her arm around me.  As I was trying to give my point-and-shoot camera to someone as I was there alone, she said, ‘Here I can do it, I am really good at this’ without hesitation I gave her my camera and is she ever good at it, I have the greatest picture and memory a fan could ask for!”  Best of luck, Christine!

At times, in an online learning environment, it can feel like you are all alone, but across the nation and around the globe, students just like you are also pursuing their Athabasca University (AU) studies!  Each week, The Voice Magazine will be bringing you some of these stories.  If you would like to be featured next, do not hesitate to get in touch!

One of the primary mainstays of The Voice Magazine has always been our student interviews.  Being able to provide a connection to other students is invaluable when you’re taking education at a distance, because it can feel so alone.  This particular Minds We Meet, from April 19th, was reader recommended and is great because Christine goes into depth and really gives us a sense of who she is and what she’s about.  Knowing that this person is a fellow AU student can serve as inspiration for the rest of us, so I’m happy to include it as part of the Best Of.

From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics.  Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column?  Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.

Who

This week, we take a look at notable science fiction and fantasy US author Ursula K.  Le Guin.

Le Guin was born on October 21, 1929, in Berkeley, California and died on January 22, 2018, in Portland, Oregon.

Many of her works were heavily influenced by anthropology, including language.

What

Some of Le Guin’s notable works include Tales from Earthsea, The Left Hand of Darkness, and The Dispossessed.

Where

These texts are often set in imagined, fantastical worlds.

When

These works predominantly set in the distant future.

Why

Le Guin’s works may be of interest to AU learners who enjoy themes of “anthropology, gender, environmentalism, and anarchism.”  In addition, these works may be of interest to students who enjoy themes of “[h]ome and homecoming.”

How

AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth.  Courses related to the works of Ursula K.  Le Guin are available in a variety of disciplines, including those that may fit into your Degree Works.  (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)

AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in ANTH 275: Faces of Culture: An Introduction to Cultural Anthropology, a junior-level, three-credit curse, which “focuses on the cross-cultural study of human diversity … [and the] patterns of social organization, the family, economics, politics, religion, the arts.”  (Please note that this course does not require prerequisites).

In addition, student may be interested in ANTH 354: Language and Culture, a senior-level three-credit course, which “investigates topics found in the field of linguistic anthropology and linguistics—one of four subfields of anthropology.”  (While this course does not require prerequisites, the above-mentioned ANTH 275 is recommended).  Happy reading!

Beyond Literary Landscapes was a column proposed to me quite a while ago, and while it doesn’t receive a lot of views, I like to think of it as like a desktop calendar quote, just reminding you of some of the diversity and breadth of literature out there, and how it can all be studied at AU.  As one of our most consistent columns, it would be an odd Best Of issue that didn’t have one.  The October 11th edition, here, was recommended by a Voice reader as it was a reminder of a favorite author, so worked exactly as intended.

From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics.  Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column?  Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.

Who

This week, we consider the works of notable French author Alexandre Dumas.

Dumas was born on July 24, 1802, in Villers-Cotterêts, Aisne, France and died December 5, 1870, Puys, France.

What

Some of Dumas’s well-known works include The Three Musketeers, The Count of Monte Cristo, and Twenty Years After.

Where

Dumas’s novels are set in a variety of geographical locations.  However, most take place in France and The Netherlands.

When

These novels are predominantly set from the 17th to 19th centuries.

Why

Dumas’s texts may be of particular interest to students who enjoy literary fiction with a focus on adventure as a genre, as well as those who would like to contemplate several complex themes, such as revenge, loyalty, and friendship.

How

AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth.  Courses related to the works of Alexandre Dumas are available in a variety of disciplines, including those that may fit into your Degree Works.  (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)

AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in ENGL 341: World Literature, a senior-level, six-credit course, which “introduces students to literature from around the world.”  (Please note that this course requires ENGL 211: Prose Forms and ENGL 212: Poetry and Plays as prerequisites.)

Students may also be interested in FREN 421: Le roman français du 19e siècle, a senior-level, three-credit course, which “is designed for students who intend to major in French or to graduate in Education with French as a teaching subject.”  In addition, this class is “vital to those who intend to pursue translation as a profession and those aspiring towards a higher degree (MA) in French Studies.”  (This course requires FREN 358: Initiation à la littérature d’expression française I (or another third-year course in French Literature), as well as professor approval as a prerequisite.)  Happy reading!

From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics.  Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column?  Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.

Who

This week, we take a look at the works of notable French, science fiction author Jules Verne.

Verne was born on February 8, 1828, in Nantes, France and died on March 24, 1905, in Amiens, France.

One fun fact about Verne is that he is one of the most translated authors in the world.  In total, his works have been translated into over 140 languages.  In addition, many of his novels have been adapted into successful films, including Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Around the World in Eighty Days.

What

Some of Verne’s well-known works include Journey to the Centre of the Earth, Around the World in Eighty Days, and Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.

Where

Verne’s works take place in a variety of location, including the Earth, outer space, as well as under the sea.

When

These works are predominantly set in the 19th century.

Why

Verne’s works may be of interest to AU students who enjoy science fiction novels, especially those concerned with both “pro-science tales of exploration” and “the dangers of technology.”

How

AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth.  Courses related to the works of Jules Verne are available in a variety of disciplines, including those that may fit into your Degree Works.  (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)

AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in in ENGL 387: Writing Speculative Fiction, a senior-level, three-credit course, which “develops speculative fiction (SF) writing skills through a combination of strategic study and writing activity.”  (Please note that this course requires ENGL 381: Creative Writing in Prose as a prerequisite.)

Students may also be interested in ASTRO 205: Universe – The Ultimate Frontier, a junior-level, three-credit course, which “describe[s] the Universe as we now understand it.”  (This course does not have any prerequisites.)  Happy reading!