Book · 2016 · Social life and customs
The throwback special
Why people recommend it
The Throwback Special by Chris Bachelder is a poignant novel that follows a group of middle-aged men who gather annually to reenact a notoriously violent play from an old NFL game. The book received high praise and detailed discussion on The Book Review podcast. Gilbert Cruz first mentioned the novel while previewing an upcoming segment where John Williams would discuss the review he wrote. Later, Gilbert Cruz formally introduced John Williams to talk extensively about the review of Chris Bachelder's novel. Host Pamela Paul also shared her deep enthusiasm for the book during a separate episode, declaring without hesitation that she loved the novel immensely. The collective commentary on the podcast portrayed the novel as a surprisingly touching, humorous, and deeply resonant exploration of male friendship, aging, and American rituals. Through these engaging discussions, the hosts successfully directed listener attention toward a unique work of contemporary fiction that blends sports nostalgia with profound psychological observation. The overwhelmingly positive sentiment expressed by the podcast team underscored the book's distinct literary charm and its ability to resonate deeply with discerning readers.
Who recommended it
- Gilbert Cruz Discussed
- Pamela Paul Recommended
Gilbert Cruz — 2 mentions
“John Williams will be here to talk about Chris bachelor's new book The throwback special”
“John Williams joins us now to talk about a review he wrote this week of the throwback Special by Chris bachel”
Pamela Paul — 1 mention
“which is Chris belder the throwback special I love that book I love it so much”
Also mentioned in the same episodes
- A Place of Greater Safety
- A separation
- American War
- At the Edge of the Orchard
- Boys & Sex
- Cinderella ate my daughter
Other mentions (2: passing, ad reads, own books)
“maybe the book that it it makes me think of most recently is a book that you reviewed for us John called the throwback Special by Chris bachelor”
“John Williams reviews the throwback Special by Chris bachelder”