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Lorin Clarke - Author Talk

Would That Be Funny? Growing up with John Clarke

"This beautiful memoir honours love, grief, and riotous fun. An utter joy to read." Kaz Cooke

John Clarke was best known in NZ for his Fred Dagg character and in Australia for his 7:30 Report interviews with Bryan Dawe.

When John died suddenly on a bushwalk in 2017 his family were in shock. Over the ensuing weeks they received an avalanche of condolences from unexpected places. People from all over the place had stories and the message was consistent: John Clarke was the same interested, kind, generous, hilarious and patient person with everyone.

So what was it like having that person as your dad? And why was he like that? Lorin Clarke delves into her family life, and explores the question of how our families make us who we are.

WOULD THAT BE FUNNY? is a story about the almost imperceptible things that define a family—from long-told folklore, in-jokes, and archetypes, to calamities like world wars, deep-seated traumas, and sudden loss.

Book sales and book signing will be available at the event.

If you need anything in order to participate in this event, please contact events@grlc.vic.gov.au at least two weeks prior to the event date.

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