Updated review:
If you are looking for bookish discussions between a pair of good-natured friends, definitely give these guys a listen. I have enjoyed the handful of episodes I have had the pleasure of listening to.
My previous review stated: Moderately entertaining but … One of the guys’ favorite overused phrase “or what not” makes me cringe every time he opens his mouth.
The “moderately entertaining” was meant as a compliment of sorts, (albeit a backhanded one), paired with a constructive criticism. This was certainly not meant as a petty personal attack.
In a later episode, Daniel rightly points out that the syntax of my choice of phrasing is cloudy. He asked “did you cringe when I said “or what not” OR every time I began speaking?” To which Gabe quickly retorted “maybe it’s both!”
To clarify my perplexing sarcastic syntax, I did indeed cringe every time the host uttered “or what not”. And because it happened so frequently, I also cringed in expectation of the dreaded phrase when he would start speaking. In retrospect, I might have been having an exceptionally snarky day, and it was poor form on my part not to include details or any positive feedback.
So please allow me add that I really like the variety of books that are covered. I love friends chatting about books and the comical rapport they have with each other is great. I can only imagine if I was brave enough to have a podcast and subsequently had a random stranger publicly excoriate my verbal tics, that could take the wind out of the creative sails...However, in my little world, my remarks could be interpreted as weirdo code for this is pretty good, and I’m mildly amused enough to try a few more episodes. We’re living in tough times. Mildly amused=pretty great.
In conclusion, if they do ever end up merchandising “Moderately entertaining ... or what not” I would happily purchase that T-Shirt/coffee mug/magnet, display it with affection and sing (or perhaps softly hum) the praises of Daniel and Gabe and their Slow Readers podcast.
Cheers!
