But What If We're Wrong?

Starred review from April 18, 2016
Klosterman (I Wear the Black Hat) conducts a series of intriguing thought experiments in this delightful new book about how we conceive of the future. He begins with a conundrum virtually all writers contemplate at some point: why do some writers achieve literary immortality while others are totally forgotten? From there, he works through similar questions with respect to rock music and then shifts to wondering which of our established scientific principles might be replaced in the centuries to come. This is pop philosophy, but Klosterman takes it seriously enough to bring in heavyweight experts such as Neil deGrasse Tyson and George Saunders. Klosterman also considers the long-term viability of the NFL and team sports in general. He asks, supposing that the ancient Egyptians had TV, which of their TV shows would interest us most—the Egyptian Breaking Bad? He argues that we’d want the most realistic portrait of society possible, and that level of realism is only achieved unintentionally. As usual, Klosterman’s trademark humor and unique curiosity propel the reader through the book. He remains one of the most insightful critics of pop culture writing today and this is his most thought-provoking and memorable book yet.

July 25, 2016
Veteran voice actor Hardingham certainly brings impressive credentials to any narration project. At first glance, the British woman may not seem an obvious choice to tackle the latest title from noted cultural critic and essayist Klosterman, a man who originally hails from deep in the American Heartland, but Hardingham manages to pull off her duties with an effective tone that balances the sometimes whimsical quality of Klosterman’s musings with the serious nature of the larger questions he raises. Klosterman draws on personal anecdotes to make his case, including several references to the generational transition between an analog world and the digital media revolution. Hardingham’s professional and poised approach to narration keeps the displays of personal catharsis in check to keep listeners’ attention on the bigger picture. Her earnest vocal style seems akin to what listeners would expect in a highbrow broadcast setting such as public radio. A Blue Rider hardcover.