Writing Science Fiction: The “One Big Leap” and Beyond

Science fiction bends natural laws with speculation grounded in possibility. In this episode, we explore the foundations of sci-fi storytelling. Plus: publishing news on new imprints, prize controversies, AI audiobooks, and why indie presses are thriving.

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Overthinking Couch Topics:

• The “one big lie” principle.
• Science as a lens to ask bigger questions.
• Balancing ideas with compelling characters.
• Avoiding common pitfalls.
• A tour of sci-fi’s many subgenres.

• More Writing Tips
• Why Creators Are Scrambling to Own Their Own Audience
• Bloomberg - AI-narrated books gaining traction
• Giller Prize Announces 2025 Longlist Amid Ongoing Financial Uncertainty
• Polari Prize organisers cancel book prize over trans controversy
• AAP April 2025 StatShot Report
• Conduit Books
• Storehouse Voices
• 7 Literary Conflicts Explained (Clip Show #11) - Writing Break
• Free Style Sheet Templates

Music licensed from Storyblocks.