Public Radio International darling Ira Glass is an irresistibly brainy, optimistic and sensitive on-air personality who holds an appeal so subtle, he must be for real. The same goes for his show "This American Life," an audio exploration of the human experience that’s like looking at the whole universe through a keyhole.
The topics are quirky, the interviews often stretch between whimsical and risky, and the reporters – I don’t know how they do it – are just like Glass. Genius-nerd types, they wear their sophistication tucked neatly into a belt of humility, consciousness and an endless quest for reality.
If you’ve never caught this gem of a listening experience, tune in to WDET 101.9 FM at 3 p.m. on Fridays or at 7 a.m. on Saturdays. Or get the CD. "Lies, Sissies, and Fiascoes: The Best of This American Life" is available online at many music stores. Glass prefers the "Mom-and-Pop" ones, of course. Learn more at www.thisamericanlife.org.
Norene Cashen pays attention here every other week. E-mail comments to [email protected]
