My first novel arrives in 2025 from Enclave Publishing.

For most of my life I’ve explored biblical truth and fantastic imagination, especially at Lorehaven.

Yet here comes the plot twist! All along I’ve also been saving ideas for my own story. Like a certain grand ship, it’s been waiting in the hangar for system repairs, extra hull polish, and just the right moment for launch. Now I’m blessed to work with the fantastic Enclave crew on this mission that may fulfill the dream of one family exiled to a dead world—and even save their Church of the future.

Explore more in this announcement. Then watch this space for updates!

#GoTherefore,

Stephen

E. Stephen Burnett explores fantastical stories for God’s glory as publisher of Lorehaven.com and its weekly Fantastical Truth podcast, and coauthored The Pop Culture Parent and other resources for fans and families. He and his wife, Lacy, live in the Austin area, where they serve in their local church. His first novel, a science-fiction adventure, arrives in 2025 from Enclave Publishing.
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Explore The Pop Culture Parent

Do Daily Wire Hosts Want to Tear Down Culture or Build It Up?

Which way, western man? Behind the Candace Owens/Ben Shapiro feud lies a deeper divide over the purpose of cultural conservatism.

Yes, Christian Creators Can Hire Secular Staff

From sets of “The Chosen” to other positions, faithful employers face challenges when they work with unbelievers.

Bilge and Beanstalks! Yahoo Scrawls Another Bad Take on C. S. Lewis’s Narnia

Watch this, she’s gonna say, “Susan Pevensie got lipstick and grew up and that’s why she’s going to hell.”

Ten Top Reasons Why ‘The Flash’ Has Flopped

For all its potential, Warner Brothers Discovery’s nice-guy movie finishes last in today’s mad dash for a multiverse.

Thirty Questions for Critics of ‘The Chosen’ or Other Christian Creators Who Hire Unbelievers

Yes, we must judge any creative work with righteous judgment, but don’t strain at gnats while swallowing camels.

Shazam Sequel Can’t Appease The Fans’ Fury

More fans want superhero stories to act their age, connect with a larger world, and respect metahuman virtues.

Ten Quick Thoughts About That TGC Article Everyone’s Chortling About

Many TGC articles cause nobody to panic, because it’s all part of the plan. But, publish a stranger article about sex …

Clearing My Tabs, March 2023

I’m exploring: A theology of revival. Brains are not like computers. “Jesus Revolution” proves popular. Let’s speak clearly about Sexualityism.

Does ‘Engaging Popular Culture’ Include Right-Wing Talk Radio?

If anyone would engage popular culture for God’s glory and others’ good, then you must find the good even in populist conservative culture.

Join My Livestream This Thursday: Seven Ways to Find Truth in Fantastic Stories

You may have grown up hearing that certain fantastical tales are “bad” or “good.” Yet how does Scripture actually reveal that popular culture is a mess of all the above?

A Wild Review of ‘The Pop Culture Parent’ Appears!

“The Pop Culture Parent is written by a trio of authors who describe why it’s important for parents to engage with their children in popular culture.”

Why My Hopes are Flying High for Tomorrow’s DC FanDome Virtual Event

All the film-critic “super apostles” said #TheSnyderCut and Ben Affleck’s return were “pipe dreams.” What else could happen? Here are my predictions for #DCFanDome.

Join Me Tonight on the Realm Makers Livestream: How Can Stories Help Us Long for Heaven?

Join E. Stephen Burnett to smash some idols while exploring the God-exalting gift of fantasy that reflects eternity.

Quotes and Notes: Should Christian Fantasy Include Magic?

Explore these biblical quotes and notes for E. Stephen Burnett’s July 11 workshop at SoCal Christian Writers Virtual Conference.

Exclusive | Quotes and Notes: Putting Pop Culture in its Place

There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

Join Me at the Realm Makers June 25 Livestream: How Can Stories Help Us in Traumatic Times?

I’d love to hear what kinds of stories you prefer during traumatic times.

Yes, Marriage and Family are Still Normative and Good Gifts for Today’s Church

Some Christians do idolize marriage and other gifts of God. But the solution isn’t to ignore or minimize his gifts’ original good purpose.

Local Blogger Gives ‘The Screwtape Letters’ A Modern Spin for Today’s Uncertain Times

If C. S. Lewis’s satirical demon Screwtape was around in today’s modern contemporary present, what would he say to us now?

UPDATED: Today I’m Teaching at Teach Them Diligently: What’s the Point of Popular Culture and Why Should Parents Care?

You can register to hear my talk: What’s the Point of Popular Culture and Why Should Parents Care?

Join Thursday’s Live Webcast: How Did You First Find Fantastic Fiction?

This Thursday, April 21, I’m hosting a webcast for Realm Makers, inspired by reader stories about how they first discovered fantastical tales.

Get a Free Chapter from My First Book, The Pop Culture Parent (Coming Fall 2020)

The Pop Culture Parent releases Sept. 7, 2020, but you can get a free chapter early at ThePopCultureParent.com.

This Russian Cover for Frank Peretti’s ‘This Present Darkness’ Beats All the American Covers

All of This Present Darkness’s American covers are okay, but the most amazing cover graces the 2011 Russian-language edition.

We’ve Rescheduled ‘The Pop Culture Parent’ to Release Sept. 7, 2020

Our new release date is Sept. 7, 2020 for The Pop Culture Parent: Helping Kids Engage Their World for Christ.

Cover Reveal for The Pop Culture Parent: Helping Kids Engage Their World for Christ

My first book The Pop Culture Parent has a title, release date, and this fantastical cover.

Pssst: Christian Endorsers of Bad Books May Not Have Even Read Them

Here’s one annoying publishing secret: Sometimes the famous evangelical endorser has not even read the book.

Commenter on Sexual-Revolutionary Allies: ‘They’re Enablers, Not Friends’

Heed this insider’s warning about sex-revolution sympathizers who ignore real people’s real trauma.

It’s Legalistic to Punish Joshua Harris for the Sins of ‘The Purity Culture’

Joshua Harris taught some bad stuff. But it’s also legalistic to condemn him for the sins of other teachers.

Some Early Responses to Joshua Harris’s Confession of Apostasy

Farewell, Joshua Harris. Come back soon.

Live from Realm Makers 2019

It’s day 3 of Realm Makers, with all its exhaustion/energy, friendship/networking, and work/recreation.

On the Road for Realm Makers 2019!

I’m hosting the Lorehaven booth, exploring creativity, and discussing the challenges of “PG-13” writing at RealmMakers, July 18–20 in St. Louis.

The Perils of Exploring Space from a Groaning Planet

Sin has turned the heavens into a killing field of humans versus nature, technological breakdown, insanity, and invading demons.

About that ‘How Should Christians Have Sex?’ Article and the Exvangelical Problem

Some “exvangelical” leaders need to find real healing from conflicts with family and church, rather than trying to find solutions through punditry.

I Just Signed with New Growth Press for a Book Releasing Next Year

In this nonfiction work, Ted Turnau, myself, and Jared Moore will explore gospel-centered parenting and popular culture for God’s glory.

Nightmare Come True: Our Car Broke Down and Stranded Us in the Desert

Last week, one of my worst traveling fears came true. But I also got to see a deus ex machina in real life.

Prof. Michael Ward: ‘Tolkien’ Film Ignores Author’s Faith and Motives

Michael Ward: “This handsome, earnest, yet overstuffed and poorly paced film . . . ignores Tolkien’s devout Christian faith.”

Seven Ways to Find Truth in Fantastic Stories

Finding truth in fantastic stories starts with, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever.”

‘Superhero Movie Fatigue’ vs. ‘Avengers: Endgame’

Even if we would prefer “superhero movie fatigue” conquer box offices, let’s “rejoice with those who rejoice.”

Stephen’s Prayer Requests for This Weekend in Cincinnati and Beyond

Today I’m asking readers to pray for Realm Makers Bookstore, Lorehaven, and me in these ways.

On Christ and Pop Culture: Shazam! Brings the Laughs while Struggling with Super-Maturity

“This story-world really needs more time to find its grown-up potential to be a strong addition to the DC lineup.”

‘The Father’s Wrath Precise Will Blast and Slice the Priceless Master Christ as a Sacrifice’

Every Good Friday, I listen to Shai Linne’s album “Atonement.”

Notre Dame Aftermath: Yes, Jesus Cares About Stained-Glass Windows

Jesus cares about humans, and about stained-glass windows and cultural works made by humans.

Say Goodnight Kevin’s Podcast Made Me a Dallas Jenkins Fan

Kevin McCreary interviews “The Chosen” series director Dallas Jenkins, who has a great take on evangelical culture.

Mission Report, Supplemental: Photos from Lorehaven at Teach Them Diligently in Waco

We kept hearing people say things like, “I’m so glad you guys are doing this. There’s such a need!”

In That Land No Good Thing Is Destroyed

Even if people never rebuilt the Notre Dame cathedral, why presume this good thing is gone forever?

Lorehaven Arrives at Teach Them Diligently in Waco

We’ll reopen with the exhibit hall Friday morning at 10 a.m.!

The Best Meme About That Black Hole Photo

After that black hole photo, Lord of the Rings fans have drawn clear comparisons based on color palette.

‘If Only Christians Made Great Art!’ Ignores Real-World Criticism

Any Christian artist, no matter the label or quality of the art, will face criticism or even persecution.

Some Quick and Mixed Thoughts on ‘Shazam!’

Last night my wife and I saw DC’s new hero film “Shazam!”, and I have some brief reactions.

Sorry, ‘Joker’ and Other Villain Stories, But I’m Mostly Interested in Heroes

I care less for stories about Batman’s villains than I’d care to read an auto-parts manual for the Batmobile.

You Must Not Steal E-Books

I keep seeing all these excuses from e-book thieves eager to justify their violation of God’s law.

If Creators Turn a Story Into Just More ‘Worldview’ Work, I’m (Likely) Out

Nothing personal, but if movies embrace Sexualityism agendas over story, I’m free to embrace rest over yet another culture-engagement job.

Christians, How Do You Watch ‘Game of Thrones’?

If you watch the HBO fantasy drama series, I’m curious about how you personally handle the porn parts.

‘People Are Dying!’

“People are dying! They are dying!” And apart from Jesus, people are desperate to fix this in absurd ways.

C. S. Lewis Effectively Remarks on Mueller Report Reactions

If we hear that our enemies actually didn’t do a terrible deed, do we “wish that black was a little blacker”?

Do the Mad Scientists Quoted in ‘Love Thy Body’ Watch Any Sci-Fi Films?

“Personhood theory” is the great lie behind many of today’s real-world, would-be mad scientists.

Zack Snyder v Justice League and My Conflicted Reactions

DC director Zack Snyder says he would have made two “Justice League” films darker and more epic.

Lorehaven’s Next Issue Reviews Fifteen Good Christian Fantastical Novels

Tomorrow, Lorehaven Magazine’s new issue reviews Tosca Lee’s “The Line Between” and other novels by fantastical Christian authors.

Lorehaven’s Spring 2019 Issue Arrives Tuesday, March 26!

Subscribers can get Lorehaven magazine’s spring 2019 issue this Tuesday at Lorehaven.com.

Yes, Christian Publishers Already Tried Selling Fantasy, and It Didn’t Work

Christian publishers selling fantasy is a great idea, but for one little hitch: It didn’t work. For several reasons.

Lifeway Christian Stores: Another Retail Phoenix Explodes into Ashes

Don’t mourn or gloat over Christian fiction’s supposed “death.” Jesus loves resurrecting good things.

‘Why Doesn’t God Just Stop All the Evil in the World?’

“If God is so good, then why doesn’t he just stop all the evil in the world?” Answered. Sort of.

If You Didn’t Like That Christian Ministry’s Anti-‘Captain Marvel’ Article, Read This

Christians who don’t get the point of superhero stories must first find the biblical purpose of popular culture.

April 2019: Lorehaven Magazine Comes to Teach Them Diligently!

Lorehaven Magazine is an official exhibitor at Teach Them Diligently, April 11–13.

Four Doctors React to That ‘Scientists Reversed Time’ Story

What would the Doctor think about news media comparing puny human simulations to his mighty TARDIS?

Secular YA May Fade, But Fantastic Christian Fiction Will Live On

Print is back. Secular YA writers are destroying one another. Meanwhile, Christian fiction is slowly rebooting.

Captain Marvel: Fun, But Not Phenomenal, and That’s Okay

Captain Marvel is just a fun movie, so let’s not pretend it is some wonderful/terrible “woke” story.

Realm Makers Bookstore, March 2019: This Is the Greatest Show

Here come more photos from our fantastic weekend at Realm Makers Bookstore in Fort Worth.

Live at Great Homeschool Convention in Fort Worth!

Today and Saturday, I’m helping to share fantastic, Christian-created stories at Realm Makers Bookstore.

Christian Fans Must Respond with Maturity to Fictional Magic

Should Christians read stories with fantasy magic? What about parents or leaders who have forbidden this?

The Best Arguments Against Cussing in Stories

“There is no disputing that reading and/or hearing profanity can negatively seed our imagination.”

The Most Challenging Objections to Story Violence

“If you make life too antiseptic, you discredit how difficult it is to be faithful.”

This is the Strangest Timeline

It’s dangerous to mess with history, Barry/Doctor/Hermione/McFly!

Weaker Brothers Shouldn’t Boss Christians About Social Justice Work

Older Christians: “Ministry work is the holiest!” Younger Christians: “Social justice work is the holiest.”

Screwtape Wants You to Think Only Horror is Real, but Joy is Sentimental

“We have got them completely fogged about the meaning of the word ‘real.’”

Newbie Christian Media Critics: Your Complaints Are Cliched

Really? Christian books, movies, and music are all terrible and preachy and stupid? Never heard that one before.

Three Reasons Why Pure Flix Needs to Make R-Rated Movies

The upcoming film “Unplanned” just got an R rating! Here’s why that’s a sign of growth for Christian movies.

‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Shows Man’s Good Stewardship

In the How to Train Your Dragon series, man must reconcile with and actively train wild creation.

How Weaker Brothers May Begin to Boss Christians About Social Justice Issues

Some Christians teach about social justice, based on Scripture, but also based on their personal conflicts.

Weaker Brothers Shouldn’t Boss Christians about Music, Food, or Fantasy

Why have Christians let people who are most vulnerable to certain sins teach about them to the rest of us?

March 7–9: Meet Me at Fort Worth’s Great Homeschool Convention

At this event, I’ll help with the Realm Makers Bookstore and represent Lorehaven Magazine.

‘Ranger Bill’: A Cynical Memory, Defeated

“Oh, great, just another example of Christians making such painfully cheesy stuff”? Shut up, brain.

Should Christian Abuse Victims Automatically ‘Forgive’ Offenders?

Must Christians forgive unrepentant sexual abusers? No, and to claim otherwise demeans God’s justice.

Little, Peddling Magicians Can Awaken Satanic Tyranny

Uncle Andrew believes his “destiny” frees him from “all rules,” just like many of today’s political leaders.

‘The Screwtape Letters’ Quotes about Christian Social Activism

“If we can keep men asking … ‘Is this the way that History is going?’ they will neglect the relevant questions.”

The Bible’s Most Boring Chapter?

All Scripture is God-breathed, yet Numbers 7 is still one of the most aesthetically dull parts of the Bible.

Christian Movies Will Get Better When Audiences Seriously Demand Them

Today’s audiences are fine with cheesy Christian movies. That will change.

In Which A Snack Cakes Twitter Feed Shames the Folly of Fandom War

@LittleDebbie wisdom: “People act as if they have to hate one thing in order to remain loyal to the other.”

C. S. Lewis on the Religion of Star Wars

C. S. Lewis in Mere Christianity describes “only a blind force, with no morals and no mind . . .”

Let’s Start a Club for Writers!

Question: “How can we sell more excellent and popular Christian fiction?”

Christian Creators Can’t Easily Bypass ‘Christian Markets’ for Secular Markets

If “Christian markets” are too steep a hill to scale, imagine trying to leap over the secular market mountains.

Tosca Lee’s Novel ‘The Line Between’ Is Already Great and You Should Read It

Unlike dystopians with teen heroes, “The Line Between” starts before a crisis and follows a young adult.

Amelie Wen Zhao’s Critics Enforce New Fantasy Legalism

Progressivists who target Amelie Wen Zhao outdo the legalism of the old Christian fundamentalists.

My New Year’s Resolution: Reject Story Cynicism

Last year I found myself getting more cynical about stories and even reality—then I found the culprit.

Stories That Celebrate Life: ‘The Measure of a Man’

Captain Jean-Luc Picard: “Your honor, Starfleet was founded to seek out new life. Well, there it sits!”

Aquaman Respects Women, and So Should His Defenders

A female critic disliked “Aquaman,” and got hate from sexist males who ignored their own hero’s standards.

Should Missionaries ‘Turn Off the Television’ and Video Games?

“Turn off the television. Shut down your video games”? But serious missionaries must engage their neighbors’ culture.

Bill Maher is Still Wrong about ‘Same Thing’ Superhero Movies

TV host Bill Maher’s resumed rant against fantastical stories only reveals his own immaturity.

Two Extreme Christian Views about Social Justice

Some Christians show zeal for social justice. Others call this “liberal.” Is either belief more biblical?