Name:
James Barry aka JB JB
Chapter:
Footscray VIC
Who are you:
Fiancé, Goon, Chapter Sarge, Chapter Prez
How long have you been with TGBC:
Feb '16: Neil Gaiman "American Gods". Makes it 7 years.
How did you end up coming to TGBC:
Saw some of the OG Valley TGBC crew meet one night. Moved to Melbourne & thought nothing more of it until I saw a poster at Mona Castle. Turned up for what was the inaugural Footscray Meet with Shay & Alex. Good times.
What’s your favourite TGBC book?
Wake In Fright (Mar '16), Johnno (Oct '17), The Plains (Camp '18), Praise (Jun '19), Last Exit To Brooklyn (Feb '20), Breakfast of Champions (Aug '21), Wolf In White Van (Nov '22). Let's see what '23 brings us.
Why are you a member of TGBC?:
It started out as an opportunity to read more. Now it's hanging out with mates.
What do you think a "Tough Guy" is?:
I used to think it was a bloke who was equally comfortable talking about Chaucer & Astley as much as throwing hands when he felt the there was a need. I've learned this is a basic tough guy. A tough guy, to me, is far more nuanced than that and I think what it means to be tough guy is the ability to evolve and adapt.
What's your favourite library?:
State Library Queensland, Brisbane.
What book have we not read yet that you’d like to do at TGBC:
It's Raining In Mango, Thea Astley
What something people wouldn't know about you if they judged you by your cover?:
I bake cakes & I'm a train nerd
