DISCLAIMER: I have only listened to the first 10 episodes so Mike’s opinions might change. I will be updating this blog every 10 episodes.
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.
I began listening to Potterless podcast by Mike Schubert. It is about a man who is now reading the Harry Potter series for the first time. His podcast follows him reading the books with special guests who are Harry Potter fanatics. Schubert shares his opinions on the books, wrong predictions, and ranting about Quiditch. Potterless is a fun, informational podcast that promotes Harry Potter books with a twist.
I enjoy this series as I am a huge Harry Potter fanatic, even having a tattoo that has the Deathly Hallows symbol and the famous word Snape shares “Always”. I have read the books multiple times starting with listening to the cassette tapes back in grade school with my family. Listening to Potterless I am able to relive the books in someone else’s point-of-view. I can relate to Mike in a way because I am also a Gryffindor.
Mike Schubert is a good host. He is able to keep his listeners engaged, laughing, and thinking all while trying to see the book with plot holes. Mike makes predictions that are usually the exact opposite of what really happens, which always makes me laugh, but then he continues to discuss how the books have very little plot twists and are predictable. Mike also has special guests who love Harry Potter and read the chapters they discuss to better talk about it.
When I listen, I have found myself talking back to Mike and his guests. I will either agree with his theories or laugh at how wrong his opinions and predictions are. This shows how well his podcasts are produced. It is always a funny listen. Mike is able to continue his thoughts clearly and not be boring. He is reading the books with an open mind, which is important to not have too many biases going into each chapter.
I only dislike two things about Potterless; HARRY POTTER IS NOT JUST FOR CHILDREN! HARRY POTTER IS FOR ALL AGES! I cannot stand how Mike always says, “Even though these are meant for eleven year olds.” When these books are written for all ages, especially the later books. Harry Potter is a dark series sometimes not ideal for children with how much violent death is apparent. The second thing I do not prefer, is when he crap talks about Quidditch. Quidditch is a sport and important in the books. Quidditch is not just a sport that Rowling came up with to take up page space. It is a way Harry is like James Potter. Quidditch is a way for members of houses to come together and support each other just like basketball would.
At the beginning of each podcast Mike announces the listeners who have given money to his show and advertises what they get in return. This podcast could be considered a huge ad to help sell more Harry Potter books, due to it being all about Harry Potter.
“As they say in the Wizarding World”
Wizard On
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