James McLeod — fantasy author and narrator

Come Say Hi

A friendly young man with stubble wearing a hawaiian shirt is sitting at a table smiling and holding a book up, as if presenting it.

It’s summer in Australia, which means it’s time for festivals, fairs, flings, and fun. And one festival which happens on my doorstep just happens to be Midsumma, a month-long celebration of people and love – if you want to get all hippylike.

But for the past three years, my partner and I have also been regulars at another venue on our doorstep. A board-games bar called Boardies on Smith St. in the trendy Melbourne suburb of Fitzroy. It’s become our second living room and we’ve been lucky to forge a good relationship with the staff and owner, while enjoying some funky cocktails and of course, learning a bunch of new boardgames. If you're ever in the area, you have to go visit, it's a treat!

Not only is it a great venue, but a while ago the owner kindly offered to sell my books on his bar, which has been fantastic for me as the clientele is mostly wonderful nerds and fantasy fans. Then, a month ago he added a new twist to the game, by mentioning that Boardies is going to have a table at the Midsumma street festival on February 11, and that I’d be welcome to set up shop there and hawk my wares.

Of course, I was thrilled with the idea and said I’d love to.

So, if you happen to be in Melbourne at the Midsumma festival on Feb 11, 2024, come say hi! The Boardies table will be located in Peel St. on the small park beside Two Birds Café (also a fabulous venue, if you’re after a good brekky and coffee).

A huge shout out and thanks to Craig from Boardies for organising this with the event planners, and I hope to see you there, dear reader!

Jim :)