The Delight of Being Ordinary

I went into *The Delight of Being Ordinary* expecting a breezy, feel-good novel about two spiritual leaders kicking back in Italy, and Merullo delivered that—but what surprised me was how deeply it resonated. P.J. Ochlan’s narration is the secret weapon here. He doesn’t just read the words; he inhabits them, shifting seamlessly between the Pope’s dry wit, the Dalai Lama’s playful curiosity, and the narrator’s wry asides. Ochlan’s voice has a lived-in quality, like a trusted friend recounting a story over wine, which makes the book’s heavier themes feel accessible without ever feeling shallow. That said, the pacing stumbles in the middle third, where the road trip’s momentum lags slightly. A few detours into philosophical musings drag more than they should, and I found myself wishing for more of the physical comedy or cultural observation that makes the early chapters so engaging. Still, by the final act, Merullo ties everything together beautifully, and Ochlan’s performance ensures that even the slower moments feel intimate rather than indulgent. The biggest takeaway? This isn’t just a book about two holy men—it’s an invitation to find joy in the ordinary, whether you’re a devout believer or a skeptic who just needs a reminder to slow down. I finished it feeling lighter, wiser, and oddly nostalgic for the simple pleasures of travel and conversation.