DID I SAY THAT OUT LOUD?
Notes on the chuff of life

‘Did I Say That Out Loud’ is a collaborative book that brings together the ‘Fortunately’ podcasters Fi Glover and Jane Garvey who decided in lockdown to turn their conversational meanderings about life into a compilation of amusing reflective essays. The presenters take turns to lead each chapter’s topic which is presented to its audience as a book or as an audible broadcast which has extra material and exchange between the two that you won’t find in the book.

The witty duo cover essential conundrums and observations on life covering a multitude of experiences including the forgotten password (!), ‘Slipping into Middle Age’, the perils of judging women, battling new technology, good hair days as we remember them, the hierarchy of broadcasting, cashing in on domesticity and lessons in lockdown. The two compare notes on their differing backgrounds and memories of growing up but generally find plenty of common ground.

Both Fi Glover and Jane Garvey are successful, experienced and entertaining broadcasters in their own right and their discussions on the ‘chuff of life’ (described as the bits we find in the cutlery drawer!) provide an amusing and lively debate that you expect to find in a book club meet in which 20% is about the book and 80% is about the minutia of life which glues us together!

Whilst neither claim to know the answers, the authors are happy to shoot the breeze with wise wit and commentary that either rings true for some or garners an opinion for others.

The Den were divided on the audible format as whilst it seems the most natural fit for these talented presenters, the written word (in which the book was developed) is more satisfying. Perhaps this is because we enjoy the interjections of their podcasting style. Whichever version works better for you, it’s a wonderful slice of life all seasoned book clubbers will appreciate.