Lifestyle

Meet J.D. Barker, A Literary Force in the Thriller Genre

Published

8 months ago

August 30, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo courtesy of Ruth Ganev Photography

By Mj Toledo

Boredom has met its unlikely match: thriller books by J.D. Barker. When this author picks up his pen, predictability takes a backseat. His novels are a wild journey through suspense and intrigue, guaranteed to keep readers guessing until the end.

Barker’s rise to fame began with his debut novel, “Forsaken,” which was independently published and received critical acclaim. This success drew the attention of traditional publishers, leading to a series of lucrative deals and collaborations that made him gain worldwide recognition.

Path to Fame and Success

J.D. Barker’s journey began with his work as a ghostwriter, where he honed his skills. “Forsaken” caught the attention of literary giants like Stephen King, who endorsed it and propelled Barker into the spotlight, leading to collaborations with major publishers.

His collaborations with James Patterson have also cemented his status as a leading author in the thriller genre. Their joint works, including “The Coast-to-Coast Murders” and “The Noise,” have become instant bestsellers, showcasing Barker’s ability to craft captivating stories alongside one of the industry’s most successful writers.

Life with Autism

Diagnosed with autism at the age of 22, J.D. Barker has spoken openly about how this aspect of his life influences his writing. He credits his autism with improving his ability to create detailed plots and complex characters. “Having a unique perspective allows me to make very intricate storylines straight in my mind, which contributes to the richness of my novels,” he shares.

Additionally, Barker’s experiences with autism have shaped his approach to storytelling. He often draws on his challenges and insights to create authentic characters, adding depth to his novels and resonating with readers personally.

Barker’s Publishing Strategies

J.D Barker’s partnership with Simon & Schuster is a hybrid model that combines the creative freedom of independent publishing with the reach of a major publishing house. This strategy allows Barker to control his work while benefiting from extensive distribution networks.

Through his imprint, Hampton Creek Press, he has expanded his influence by supporting other authors in the thriller and horror genres. His ability to deal with this new setup in the publishing world creates mutually beneficial partnerships and has positioned him as a leader in literary transformation.

New Novels and Exciting Ventures

One of J.D. Barker’s most anticipated works is the new addition to the Flatliners franchise, which promises a fresh take on the original concept. His expertise crafting suspenseful and thought-provoking stories makes him the perfect choice to revitalize this beloved classic.

Barker’s recent release, “Behind a Closed Door,” explores the dark side of modern technology. It follows a couple entangled in a dangerous game through an app, delving into themes of privacy and ethical implications.

For thriller lovers, J.D. Barker’s novels are essential reading. His works, known for their gripping narratives and exploration of complex characters, are a compelling introduction to the genre. Whether interested in classic suspense or stories that delve into the mind of a killer, Barker’s best-selling titles are a suitable start.

Lifestyle

Why Classical Dance Is Thriving on Instagram

Published

12 hours ago

April 28, 2025

Michelle Langton

For centuries, classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kathak have been treasured for their elegance, complexity, and storytelling prowess. But in recent years, these age-old traditions have found an unlikely stage: Instagram. From intricate mudras to rhythmic footwork, young dancers are captivating audiences worldwide, all in the span of a 60-second reel.

So, what’s fueling this revival of classical dance on a platform known for trends, filters, and viral challenges?

Instagram, with its visual-first format, has become an ideal space for artists to share their craft. Classical dance, rich in visual storytelling, translates beautifully into bite-sized performances that are accessible and engaging for modern audiences.

“Reels are short enough to grab attention but long enough to convey the essence of a classical piece,” says one of Spardha’s dance teachers, actively creating dance videos for the Instagram page of Spardha School of Music and Dance, an online platform for performing arts education. “You don’t need an elaborate stage or hours of performance; a simple backdrop and good lighting can bring your art to life.”

On Instagram, young dancers bring a fresh approach to traditional art. They skillfully blend classical compositions with trending audio tracks, often choreographing pieces that resonate with younger audiences.

These videos show how classical dance can be relevant in today’s world as young artists reinterpret popular songs in classical style. Such performances respect the tradition, make it accessible to a larger audience by making classical dance relatable.

Social media has also given classical dancers something they’ve never had before: a global audience. Platforms like Instagram allow Indian artists to reach audiences in the U.S., Europe, and beyond, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.

And the feedback loop is immediate. Unlike traditional performances, which are confined to auditoriums and limited audiences, Instagram reels receive likes, comments, and shares in real time, creating a sense of community and encouraging more engagement.

The rise of online platforms for learning music and dance like Spardha School of Music and Dance has further fueled this trend. Spardha provides structured lessons in classical dance forms like Bharatnatyam and Kathak, and even Bollywood, making them accessible to young learners regardless of their location.

“Many of our students have taken what they’ve learned and showcased it online,” says a representative from Spardha. “It’s incredible to see them not just learn the art but also innovate and present it in ways that inspire others.”

By offering online classes, Spardha ensures that classical dance is no longer restricted to physical studios, enabling dancers to connect with their culture through dance no matter where they are in the world.

The success of classical dance on Instagram lies in its ability to blend heritage with modernity. The younger generation, armed with smartphones and a passion for preserving their roots, is making classical dance both aspirational and accessible.

Dance has always been about expression, and Instagram is just a new way of reaching people.