Name:
Desmond Doyle
Chapter:
Mayfield
What is your story?
I reckon I have lived a few different lives so far and have enjoyed them all. I moved around a lot as a kid (Defence Brat) and continued to move around throughout my life. Not having a single place to be "from" has helped to define my character. In saying that I am coming up on the longest I have lived anywhere here in Newcastle and have no plans to move. I can't help but get involved, from book club, P&C association, kids sports, raffles at the pub - I'm probably amongst it somehow. I am always up for trying new things, I joke that my hobby is hobbies, but the constants are travelling, reading, and the pub. Being a father is the latest iteration of my life. It is by far the most difficult and can be extremely challenging at times, but is also wonderful and rewarding. It is helpful to helpful to be able to talk about it with other goons!
How long have you been with TGBC? First Book?
I started at the Newcastle Chapter about 4 years ago and was there for a few years before we had to start a new chapter in Mayfield. My first book was The Starless Sea, it was a perfect introduction to the club because it was equally hated, loved, and middling among the goons. Such a good discussion I couldn't wait to come back!
How did you end up coming to TGBC?
I was in a book club when I lived in Sydney, so I looked to join one when I moved to Newcastle, but after a search I could only find women only, or lesbian only book clubs - neither of which I qualified for. I forgot about it for a while until I saw an ad for TGBC on Face book and thought it looked like it would suit me to the ground.
What is your favourite TGBC book?
A hard question. I don't think I would have picked 90% of the books for myself, I have loved most of them, and enjoyed every one of the discussions. The Road by Cormac McCarthy stands out for both the book and the chat. I also found Stoner by John Williams from the back catalogue (it was a club book before I joined), what an incredible book!
Why are you a member of TGBC?
I have always needed to be part of a community. I previously moved around a lot, and I never felt at home in a city until I had that community feeling. This club is a huge part of that for me these days. I also read so much more, the club books got me started but the momentum increased all of my reading.
What do you think a "Tough Guy" is?
I think a tough guy is someone who stands by their own principals no matter the situation, which can be hard. He is someone who helps others in a hard situation but also knows when to ask for or accept help when needed.
What is your favourite library?
The Newcastle Library system is great. My local branch at Mayfield is small but has a good selection, and helpful librarians - and the resources from all branches are available. I use it a lot for myself and my kids. I am pleased to say that my kids are genuinely excited by the suggestion of a weekend trip to the library.
What book have we not read that you'd like to do at TGBC?
I think the best part is having this taken out of my hands to be honest. But if pressed, I wouldn't mind seeing how people interpret Starship Troopers.
What is something people wouldn't know about you if they judged you by your cover?
I can't think of anything important, what you see is what you get. One of my hobbies is knitting, some people are surprised by that.
