Picture an American storyteller who transformed a fantastical tower into a literary marvel—meet Josiah Bancroft! This former poet and college instructor traded lecture halls for the sprawling, steampunk-inspired world of the Tower of Babel, captivating fantasy fans with his lyrical prose and inventive storytelling. His 'Books of Babel' series, starting with the breakout hit Senlin Ascends, has earned him a devoted following and critical acclaim.
With a knack for blending high-stakes adventure with poetic flair, Bancroft invites readers into a universe where every level of his towering creation pulses with mystery and danger. When he’s not crafting epic tales, you might find him strumming tunes with his band Dirt Dirt or whipping up a recipe-free dinner in Philadelphia. Ready to climb the Tower? Let’s explore Bancroft’s journey!
The Making of Josiah Bancroft
Born on March 29, 1978, Josiah Bancroft grew up with a creative spark that led him down varied paths before he found his calling as a fantasy author. Initially a poet, college instructor, and aspiring comic book artist, Bancroft dabbled in artistic pursuits, even receiving a rejection letter from Marvel Comics in 1999. His love for storytelling took root early, as he began writing novels at age twelve, becoming hooked after completing his first. Inspired by literary giants like Italo Calvino and Franz Kafka, Bancroft’s eclectic background shaped his unique voice, blending whimsy with gritty adventure. Settling in Philadelphia with his wife, Sharon, their daughter, Maddie, and two rabbits, Mabel and Chaplin, he transitioned from poetry to prose, setting the stage for his literary ascent.
Josiah Bancroft’s Unforgettable Stories
Bancroft’s 'Books of Babel' series is his crowning achievement, a four-book saga that reimagines the Tower of Babel as a steampunk labyrinth of warring ringdoms. The series kicks off with Senlin Ascends (2013), where Thomas Senlin, a mild-mannered headmaster, loses his wife, Marya, during their honeymoon at the Tower. His quest to find her unveils a world of betrayal, airships, and intrigue. Critics, including Pierce Brown, hailed it as 'deliriously imaginative,' praising its timeless prose. The sequels—Arm of the Sphinx (2015), The Hod King (2019), and The Fall of Babel (2021)—expand the ensemble cast and deepen the Tower’s mysteries.
In 2023, Bancroft launched The Hexologists, a new series featuring magical detectives Iz and Warren Wilby in a Victorian-inspired world. This shift to a lighter, mystery-driven narrative showcases his versatility, with fans lauding its witty dialogue and vivid worldbuilding. Bancroft’s style, marked by poetic prose and Kafkaesque strangeness, creates immersive worlds that feel both classic and fresh, earning comparisons to Mervyn Peake’s Gormenghast.
Initially self-published, Senlin Ascends gained traction through the 2016 Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off, catching the eye of Orbit Books, which republished the series to wider acclaim. Bancroft’s ability to weave character-driven stories with sprawling settings has made him a standout in modern fantasy.
Why Josiah Bancroft Matters
Josiah Bancroft’s rise from self-publishing to fantasy stardom is a testament to perseverance and raw talent. His 'Books of Babel' series redefined epic fantasy, blending steampunk aesthetics with profound themes of growth and resilience. Fans on platforms like Goodreads celebrate his flawed, relatable characters, like Thomas Senlin, who evolve through trials. Bancroft’s influence extends beyond books; his Crit Faced podcast and Patreon engagement foster a tight-knit community, proving that even niche authors can leave a lasting mark.
His work resonates with readers seeking adventure and depth, offering a refreshing departure from traditional sword-and-sorcery tropes. As he continues with The Hexologists, Bancroft is poised to shape fantasy for years to come.
About Josiah Bancroft
- Born: March 29, 1978
- Key Works: Senlin Ascends, The Hod King, The Hexologists
- Hobbies: Plays post-pop music with Dirt Dirt, cooks without recipes
- Home: Philadelphia, with wife Sharon, daughter Maddie, and rabbits Mabel and Chaplin
Snag Senlin Ascends and dive into Josiah Bancroft’s mesmerizing fantasy world—your ticket to the Tower awaits!