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There’s a Tale to This City
When the city most needed kindness, the Dear Stranger letters began to appear on its walls.
A restless, letter-writing backpacker named Jay crashes into the lives of two strangers: Johnny—a burnt-out, reclusive poet entangled in the mess of his own spiralling thoughts—and Rick-a scholar absorbed by the margins of footnotes and the silence of books. Jay drags them out of their narrow suburban worlds, disrupting their routines, taking them under his wing, to introduce them to the confronting chaos on the streets of Melbourne.
Three unlikely dreamers embark on a transformative mission to record every voice and vision. The city cracks open. The gutters flood with tales. The Bathing Man. The Cardboard Preacher. The Rainbow Lady; each narrative peels back another layer of the metropolis. The trio abandon their assumptions—everything they think they know about the world, about people, about themselves—to learn how to notice, observe, and listen.
Inspired by real encounters, There's a Tale to This City is an offbeat time capsule with storytelling and mateship at its heart. It's a tribute to how thoughtful attention reveals the quiet truths in daily life.
A restless, letter-writing backpacker named Jay crashes into the lives of two strangers: Johnny—a burnt-out, reclusive poet entangled in the mess of his own spiralling thoughts—and Rick-a scholar absorbed by the margins of footnotes and the silence of books. Jay drags them out of their narrow suburban worlds, disrupting their routines, taking them under his wing, to introduce them to the confronting chaos on the streets of Melbourne.
Three unlikely dreamers embark on a transformative mission to record every voice and vision. The city cracks open. The gutters flood with tales. The Bathing Man. The Cardboard Preacher. The Rainbow Lady; each narrative peels back another layer of the metropolis. The trio abandon their assumptions—everything they think they know about the world, about people, about themselves—to learn how to notice, observe, and listen.
Inspired by real encounters, There's a Tale to This City is an offbeat time capsule with storytelling and mateship at its heart. It's a tribute to how thoughtful attention reveals the quiet truths in daily life.
- GenresPoetry
258 pages, Paperback
First published August 10, 2021
About the author
Jaidyn Luke Attard
2 books76 followersJaidyn Luke Attard ‘The Street Poet’ writes poetry and fiction inspired by his life as a street wanderer and observer in Melbourne/Naarm. He explores trauma and paranoia with a raw edge, often deliberately breaking literary conventions.
His punkish paste-up poetry can be found on various laneway walls in the city.
In 2021 he co-wrote ‘There’s a Tale to This City’, dropping out of his Master’s degree in publishing to dedicate more time to writing. In 2023, he released his debut novel, The Street Poet: The Journals of a Paranoid Man. His second co-written book is scheduled to release in late 2023.
He went on to found the underground collaborative writer’s collective, the Degraves Circle, as well as his own independent publishing press, Back Shed Press.
@jaidynpoetry
His punkish paste-up poetry can be found on various laneway walls in the city.
In 2021 he co-wrote ‘There’s a Tale to This City’, dropping out of his Master’s degree in publishing to dedicate more time to writing. In 2023, he released his debut novel, The Street Poet: The Journals of a Paranoid Man. His second co-written book is scheduled to release in late 2023.
He went on to found the underground collaborative writer’s collective, the Degraves Circle, as well as his own independent publishing press, Back Shed Press.
@jaidynpoetry
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 9, 2021
A thoroughly authentic, inspired book about loneliness, connection and art in Melbourne city.
A lot of us grew up believing the world was magic, and over time, our light dims. We experience grief and heartache and believe we've touched the "truth" of life. Sometimes we're just very, very lonely. But then a story like this one comes along and a kind of frenetic energy overtakes you and reminds you of your most inspired, believing self. A story like this comes along and makes you think that maybe you were right when you were young and there is a grand adventure waiting out there for you.
There's a Tale to This City is a book that is entirely serendipitous and inimitable, by 3 writers who connected in exactly the right way and came together at exactly the right time and place to create something that can never be repeated, like planets aligned. But this book is also a wake-up call as to why we should read- to remind us of all the stories that surround us every single day, to show us the soul-stirring connections that we could make, how your life can change in the blink of an eye.
All you have to do is open your eyes - and listen.
A lot of us grew up believing the world was magic, and over time, our light dims. We experience grief and heartache and believe we've touched the "truth" of life. Sometimes we're just very, very lonely. But then a story like this one comes along and a kind of frenetic energy overtakes you and reminds you of your most inspired, believing self. A story like this comes along and makes you think that maybe you were right when you were young and there is a grand adventure waiting out there for you.
There's a Tale to This City is a book that is entirely serendipitous and inimitable, by 3 writers who connected in exactly the right way and came together at exactly the right time and place to create something that can never be repeated, like planets aligned. But this book is also a wake-up call as to why we should read- to remind us of all the stories that surround us every single day, to show us the soul-stirring connections that we could make, how your life can change in the blink of an eye.
All you have to do is open your eyes - and listen.
September 1, 2021
Every bit as groundbreaking as The Learned Disguise and L'Académie.
February 12, 2022
This book was a literal journey, I was shocked of how quick I was hooked.
It's a real story(ies), of real people told by three real individuals. It transporte you to the streets of Melbourne and to its people.
Not only did I enjoy it very much but I also traveled and learned. I related and admired.
I think its a book everyone that loves any kind of art, that loves words and writing should read.
I personally loved the fact that it's written by three writers in a very dynamic way and it's no confusing at all, in fact it's fun and interesting to see how they are different, think different and write different and still write an incredible book.
It's a real story(ies), of real people told by three real individuals. It transporte you to the streets of Melbourne and to its people.
Not only did I enjoy it very much but I also traveled and learned. I related and admired.
I think its a book everyone that loves any kind of art, that loves words and writing should read.
I personally loved the fact that it's written by three writers in a very dynamic way and it's no confusing at all, in fact it's fun and interesting to see how they are different, think different and write different and still write an incredible book.
Read
January 28, 2022I have followed @jaytheauthor, since September 2020 when, with his help, I bought and read his book,1200 KM, which is the story of his brave journey and adventures walking from Barcelona to Portugal in 2017, and his meeting with Echo, his girlfriend, with whom until now, he maintains a stable and loving relationship.
I have read about his life in Melbourne as if I had followed his diary, I know about the vicissitudes, the feelings and emotions that the streets and people of that city provoked in him, on many occasions of loneliness and sadness when feeling a stranger, rejected, or ignored.
Later, through his 'Letters to strangers', posted on the streets, he felt worthy, finding himself, the writer he really is.
He posted and shared them on his Instagram account too, I got to know more about his writing; honest, direct, brave, but especially his human quality, because through his original, funny, and moving stories, he taught us how to listen to those whom we do not even want to look at, because they are the reflection of the unjust and selfish society that we have created.
These strangers are not only found in the city of Melbourne, but in any part of the world. People to whom @jaytheauthor, learnt how to listen to, give a word, a message of encouragement and empathy. He spoke and wrote about them, made them visible and treated them with kindness and respect, 'he made them feel as if their words hold some sort of value'.
In Melbourne, Jay met and inspired two other talented young writers, Jaidyn, @jaidynpoetry, with his exceptional poetry and Robin, @r.c.waldun with his excellent storytelling. Three months before Jay left that city, they gathered their Melbourne’s stories in a collaborative book, THERE'S A TALE TO THIS CITY, which has given their readers a pleasant surprise due to its literary quality and originality.
There,some of the stories of the strangers who inspired them, are deeply reflected.
We find also the young writers personal experiences. Dreams, changes and a honest friendship that emerged in their lives. They have inspired many more actual or future writers.
I want to express my admiration, respect and gratitude to Jay, Jaidyn and Robin because I was one of the lucky ones to receive and enjoy the gift of their magnificent book.
I'll keep inside of me, these words that Jay said to Robin, 'Money isn't the only way to give back' and 'Our words, our stories, our wisdom… these are the only things that can keep us alive, in spirit . If it's not written down, our entire existence will fade away…'
Similarly to Jaidyn's @jaidynpoetry, final poem in the book, titled 'Time and change', 'Change is happening now, so we may as well embrace it, right?' and Robin's @r.c.waldun farewell, with the promise of a meeting in Paris, 'All new adventures start with some elusive promise, some distant adventure...'
Thank you to three inspiring writers. 😊🙏📝📓. Your friend, Silvia.
I have read about his life in Melbourne as if I had followed his diary, I know about the vicissitudes, the feelings and emotions that the streets and people of that city provoked in him, on many occasions of loneliness and sadness when feeling a stranger, rejected, or ignored.
Later, through his 'Letters to strangers', posted on the streets, he felt worthy, finding himself, the writer he really is.
He posted and shared them on his Instagram account too, I got to know more about his writing; honest, direct, brave, but especially his human quality, because through his original, funny, and moving stories, he taught us how to listen to those whom we do not even want to look at, because they are the reflection of the unjust and selfish society that we have created.
These strangers are not only found in the city of Melbourne, but in any part of the world. People to whom @jaytheauthor, learnt how to listen to, give a word, a message of encouragement and empathy. He spoke and wrote about them, made them visible and treated them with kindness and respect, 'he made them feel as if their words hold some sort of value'.
In Melbourne, Jay met and inspired two other talented young writers, Jaidyn, @jaidynpoetry, with his exceptional poetry and Robin, @r.c.waldun with his excellent storytelling. Three months before Jay left that city, they gathered their Melbourne’s stories in a collaborative book, THERE'S A TALE TO THIS CITY, which has given their readers a pleasant surprise due to its literary quality and originality.
There,some of the stories of the strangers who inspired them, are deeply reflected.
We find also the young writers personal experiences. Dreams, changes and a honest friendship that emerged in their lives. They have inspired many more actual or future writers.
I want to express my admiration, respect and gratitude to Jay, Jaidyn and Robin because I was one of the lucky ones to receive and enjoy the gift of their magnificent book.
I'll keep inside of me, these words that Jay said to Robin, 'Money isn't the only way to give back' and 'Our words, our stories, our wisdom… these are the only things that can keep us alive, in spirit . If it's not written down, our entire existence will fade away…'
Similarly to Jaidyn's @jaidynpoetry, final poem in the book, titled 'Time and change', 'Change is happening now, so we may as well embrace it, right?' and Robin's @r.c.waldun farewell, with the promise of a meeting in Paris, 'All new adventures start with some elusive promise, some distant adventure...'
Thank you to three inspiring writers. 😊🙏📝📓. Your friend, Silvia.
December 10, 2021
So good, I listened to the audiobook first. I can't wait for when I'll obtain the book version.
September 30, 2021
Dear Stranger, we are most oftentimes in our daily lives navigating an incomprehensibly quixotic labyrinthian nexus of overlapping multidimensional human stories whose unending intersections become impossible to perceive, held obscured under the weight of the superstructure metropolis that has so long ago absorbed us all, but glimmering brilliantly out from within the architecture of these haunting hyper-modern shadows appears “There Is A Tale To This City,” which beautifully reminds us that even if as we pass, swiftly brushing elbows on the streets, desperately attempting to look away from one another to shield us from the profound similarities that we all share in the magnificence of our humanity, albeit in many ways we are different, Jay, Jaidyn L. Attard, and R C Waldun remind us, using the poetry of everyday life, that we are, in fact, connected and that we are all living within the same story, kinetically moving within the awe-inspiring architecture of the streets that surround us.
“There’s A Tale To This City” is in many ways about many things, but at its core, it is a book about a group of authors who come synchronously together in the city of Melbourne to not only explore for themselves what it means to be a writer, but also what it means when we more closely examine the stories that not only bind us all together, but they also show us that, hidden in the stories of the streets, we uncover the heartbeat of the very stories that remind us what it means to be human.
Jay writes “When you’re dead, you’re dead. And no cosmetic thing can keep you alive. But our words, our stories, our wisdom… These are the only things that can keep us alive in spirit. If it’s not written down, our entire existence will fade away faster than that bird shit next to your foot.” “There’s a Tale to This City” is one of those books burning brightly through all the noise of the world, that reminds us that it is most often in the books that we read and the stories that we tell that we capture, if even only briefly, the meaning of what it felt like to be alive.
-Phillip Freedenberg
Author of America and the Cult of the Cactus Boots: A Diagnostic
Los Angeles, California
9/30/21
“There’s A Tale To This City” is in many ways about many things, but at its core, it is a book about a group of authors who come synchronously together in the city of Melbourne to not only explore for themselves what it means to be a writer, but also what it means when we more closely examine the stories that not only bind us all together, but they also show us that, hidden in the stories of the streets, we uncover the heartbeat of the very stories that remind us what it means to be human.
Jay writes “When you’re dead, you’re dead. And no cosmetic thing can keep you alive. But our words, our stories, our wisdom… These are the only things that can keep us alive in spirit. If it’s not written down, our entire existence will fade away faster than that bird shit next to your foot.” “There’s a Tale to This City” is one of those books burning brightly through all the noise of the world, that reminds us that it is most often in the books that we read and the stories that we tell that we capture, if even only briefly, the meaning of what it felt like to be alive.
-Phillip Freedenberg
Author of America and the Cult of the Cactus Boots: A Diagnostic
Los Angeles, California
9/30/21
December 13, 2021
A TRANSCENDENT UPLIFTING WORK
A life well-lived is one spent observing humanity’s hidden moments: understanding them, and how they fit into the wider social tapestry. In case of Jay, Johnny and Rick, those hidden moments take place in plain sight, as they are often the sole eyes focused on Melbourne’s colourful downtrodden: injecting them with life and pathos and the sort idiosyncratic detail that make it impossible to look away. It’s combined with a dynamism in describing the city’s singularity and eclectic energies at work, and comes together in a symphony of emotional exploration that left me lamenting how I’ve so long evaded this real Melbourne. For we all too often cast our eyes down at these people, and their stories are lost with mentality like that.
I was also really impressed by how adeptly the book handled personal growth. It was a tangibly galvanising sensation to see how each of the characters lift themselves up. Written with three juxtaposing sense of flair, each voice guides us through the one-step-at-a-time amidst the grit of the metropolis and the fully layered panorama of humanity.
My reading has been undergoing a shake up this year, I’m no longer racing to try and beat deadlines with it. I’m just going to look at the exercise as something leisurely through which I can explore another side of myself. Reading this was a joy which I slowly savoured, and I know I’ll return for a reread and more. Genuinely can’t recommend it enough, and can’t wait to see what the authors have planned next
A life well-lived is one spent observing humanity’s hidden moments: understanding them, and how they fit into the wider social tapestry. In case of Jay, Johnny and Rick, those hidden moments take place in plain sight, as they are often the sole eyes focused on Melbourne’s colourful downtrodden: injecting them with life and pathos and the sort idiosyncratic detail that make it impossible to look away. It’s combined with a dynamism in describing the city’s singularity and eclectic energies at work, and comes together in a symphony of emotional exploration that left me lamenting how I’ve so long evaded this real Melbourne. For we all too often cast our eyes down at these people, and their stories are lost with mentality like that.
I was also really impressed by how adeptly the book handled personal growth. It was a tangibly galvanising sensation to see how each of the characters lift themselves up. Written with three juxtaposing sense of flair, each voice guides us through the one-step-at-a-time amidst the grit of the metropolis and the fully layered panorama of humanity.
My reading has been undergoing a shake up this year, I’m no longer racing to try and beat deadlines with it. I’m just going to look at the exercise as something leisurely through which I can explore another side of myself. Reading this was a joy which I slowly savoured, and I know I’ll return for a reread and more. Genuinely can’t recommend it enough, and can’t wait to see what the authors have planned next
February 20, 2023
If you're looking for a book to transport you to new and exciting destinations, look no further than this incredible novel! From the first page, I was hooked by the vivid descriptions of melbourne's lanes, the thrilling adventures of Jay and his friends, Johnny and Rick, and the fascinating characters they meet along the way.
The author's writing styles are impeccable, seamlessly weaving together travelogue, memoir, and fiction to create a captivating narrative that kept me turning the pages late into the night. I felt like I was right there with the protagonists, experiencing everything they did and learning so much about the world and its many cultures.
But what I loved most about this book was the way it made me feel. It inspired me to dream big and to never be afraid to take risks, to go out and explore the world with an open mind and a sense of wonder. Reading this novel was like taking a journey of my own, one that I'll never forget.
Overall, I highly recommend this fascinating novel to anyone who loves adventure, cultures, and great storytelling. It's a true masterpiece that deserves to be read and reread, and I can't wait to see where the author takes me next!
The author's writing styles are impeccable, seamlessly weaving together travelogue, memoir, and fiction to create a captivating narrative that kept me turning the pages late into the night. I felt like I was right there with the protagonists, experiencing everything they did and learning so much about the world and its many cultures.
But what I loved most about this book was the way it made me feel. It inspired me to dream big and to never be afraid to take risks, to go out and explore the world with an open mind and a sense of wonder. Reading this novel was like taking a journey of my own, one that I'll never forget.
Overall, I highly recommend this fascinating novel to anyone who loves adventure, cultures, and great storytelling. It's a true masterpiece that deserves to be read and reread, and I can't wait to see where the author takes me next!
December 8, 2021
This is a book about tenacity, the human spirit, a mysterious city and ultimately navigating friendship.
Told in first-person narrative, (each chapter a different author point of view), There’s a Tale to this City follows Jay, Johnny, and Rick through the streets of Melbourne and into the lives of the city’s street sleepers, alleyways, shops and galleries…it’s the gritty, underground side of Melbourne, a side that I’ve missed during lockdown.
The team have done a fantastic job of marrying their stories so that as one finishes his chapter, the next picks up where the previous left off.
With the exception an interlude when Jay travels out of the city for a silent retreat that nearly drives him mad, the book is mostly set around the three meeting regularly to create art and ponder life.
Definitely recommend to lovers of Melbourne, or those who want to see their city through the eyes of someone else.
Told in first-person narrative, (each chapter a different author point of view), There’s a Tale to this City follows Jay, Johnny, and Rick through the streets of Melbourne and into the lives of the city’s street sleepers, alleyways, shops and galleries…it’s the gritty, underground side of Melbourne, a side that I’ve missed during lockdown.
The team have done a fantastic job of marrying their stories so that as one finishes his chapter, the next picks up where the previous left off.
With the exception an interlude when Jay travels out of the city for a silent retreat that nearly drives him mad, the book is mostly set around the three meeting regularly to create art and ponder life.
Definitely recommend to lovers of Melbourne, or those who want to see their city through the eyes of someone else.
September 21, 2021
made me ache for melbourne the way it was just months ago, with it's unruly unpredictability. even when the regaled stories of strangers were sickening, i ached for it. living at the end of a tramline, outside the permitted travel radius, i want to be in the midst of bustling crowds again—i miss being able to do that without fearing infection.
the authors brought some welcome strangers into my home, and for that i can only be thankful.
the authors brought some welcome strangers into my home, and for that i can only be thankful.
September 15, 2021
A pleasure to read
The book changes from Jay,Johnny and Ricks writing perspective and writing styles.
Making the book ride to read
Running around the streets of Melbourne with them three.
An inspiration for young writes.
The book changes from Jay,Johnny and Ricks writing perspective and writing styles.
Making the book ride to read
Running around the streets of Melbourne with them three.
An inspiration for young writes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2021
This book is absolutely immaculate. Probably the best book of the year.
October 11, 2023
Quite original, and I enjoyed that aspect of it. With a bit more input and/or editing, it could have easily been 4 stars. I love the concept and follow all 3 authors on social media, but in practicality this collection ended up flat; each segment would be reaching towards some wonderful realisation or understanding or story or prose, and then lose it by either trying too hard or losing it altogether. Without changing the concept, a good editor could have fine tuned those climaxes, in my opinion.
It boils down to would I recommend this, and unfortunately the answer is no. I mostly kept on reading to see if the issue would be resolved. It wasn’t. On the other hand, it is a short read and segmented, so you can read bits and pieces every night or finish it in own fell swoop. Which means that if you are looking for something easy to distract you, this could be just the thing.
It boils down to would I recommend this, and unfortunately the answer is no. I mostly kept on reading to see if the issue would be resolved. It wasn’t. On the other hand, it is a short read and segmented, so you can read bits and pieces every night or finish it in own fell swoop. Which means that if you are looking for something easy to distract you, this could be just the thing.
January 3, 2022
The authors have beautiful and interesting perspectives on people, the streets of Melbourne and even themselves and eachother. It was a captivating read.
January 15, 2022
You need this book. This is like a mixtape of a trio of talented artists that are on the cusp of something big. In that sense, this book feels like an important relic in three promising careers. To get in on the ground level and see such promise and potential is really riveting.
This book is raw and punk and breaks pretty much all of the rules. It defies genre as it skips between several different forms throughout it's compact story. Each page is full of joy and intrigue. There is something here for everyone.
That isn't to say the book is without issues. Anything that can be labeled raw and punk is bound to have them. The biggest issue I felt was in the structure and pace of the work. By the end of the novel/autofiction (the story jumps between real experiences and a delightful sort of fictional madness), the reader is made aware of one character/writer needing to leave the country soon. That answered my biggest question in regards to the rushed nature of the story. A lot is skipped past that would've been great to see play out, unfortunately due to the short timeline to complete the book it seems that skipping things was necessary to finish the work in time. It's bittersweet because the frantic pace lends to the punk feeling of the work, but greater detail would've made the story feel that much more satisfying.
I adored the ending. There was so much heart in it as we see Rick and Johnny finish the story changed characters . . . I just wish we saw more of the important moments that caused this change. Johnny mentions so many important moments in the final chapter, leaving university, starting a new relationship etc, it would've been great to see these events play out and see him grow into the newer confident character he ends up as. Likewise with Rick. One of my favourite scenes in the book involved Rick contemplating buying a skull and an impatient shopkeeper brushing him off. When Rick makes himself and the shopkeeper a promise that he'll be back I eagerly awaited a return to this setting which sadly never comes. It felt like a broken promise. Rick and Johnny finish the book is such a strong emotionally moving way, it feels a little unfair we didn't get to see more of the journey to this destination.
Jay's character is an interesting enigma that dances between delusional madness and an avatar of change for Johnny and Rick. There are moments of greatness in this character, but again I wish we had more heartfelt scenes involving the three characters so we could really notice how and why Jay was changing them. I feel like the book would have greatly benefited by being three times the size and going into more depth in every aspect of each character.
I do understand why that couldn't happen though. Despite these shortcomings, the book is a rousing success in introducing three new storytellers to the world. This is raw, mad, and unhinged at times. It is the kind of book that the outcasts would flock to and push into being a cult classic (which is where I could easily see this book landing). While I knocked off a couple of stars/points in response to my grievances with the rushed pacing; don't be mistaken, this is a must-read... not only for historical sakes, but also for the way the book proudly breaks the rules of the literary canon and defiantly claims its own identity.
Bravo guys, I look forward to the next one!
This book is raw and punk and breaks pretty much all of the rules. It defies genre as it skips between several different forms throughout it's compact story. Each page is full of joy and intrigue. There is something here for everyone.
That isn't to say the book is without issues. Anything that can be labeled raw and punk is bound to have them. The biggest issue I felt was in the structure and pace of the work. By the end of the novel/autofiction (the story jumps between real experiences and a delightful sort of fictional madness), the reader is made aware of one character/writer needing to leave the country soon. That answered my biggest question in regards to the rushed nature of the story. A lot is skipped past that would've been great to see play out, unfortunately due to the short timeline to complete the book it seems that skipping things was necessary to finish the work in time. It's bittersweet because the frantic pace lends to the punk feeling of the work, but greater detail would've made the story feel that much more satisfying.
I adored the ending. There was so much heart in it as we see Rick and Johnny finish the story changed characters . . . I just wish we saw more of the important moments that caused this change. Johnny mentions so many important moments in the final chapter, leaving university, starting a new relationship etc, it would've been great to see these events play out and see him grow into the newer confident character he ends up as. Likewise with Rick. One of my favourite scenes in the book involved Rick contemplating buying a skull and an impatient shopkeeper brushing him off. When Rick makes himself and the shopkeeper a promise that he'll be back I eagerly awaited a return to this setting which sadly never comes. It felt like a broken promise. Rick and Johnny finish the book is such a strong emotionally moving way, it feels a little unfair we didn't get to see more of the journey to this destination.
Jay's character is an interesting enigma that dances between delusional madness and an avatar of change for Johnny and Rick. There are moments of greatness in this character, but again I wish we had more heartfelt scenes involving the three characters so we could really notice how and why Jay was changing them. I feel like the book would have greatly benefited by being three times the size and going into more depth in every aspect of each character.
I do understand why that couldn't happen though. Despite these shortcomings, the book is a rousing success in introducing three new storytellers to the world. This is raw, mad, and unhinged at times. It is the kind of book that the outcasts would flock to and push into being a cult classic (which is where I could easily see this book landing). While I knocked off a couple of stars/points in response to my grievances with the rushed pacing; don't be mistaken, this is a must-read... not only for historical sakes, but also for the way the book proudly breaks the rules of the literary canon and defiantly claims its own identity.
Bravo guys, I look forward to the next one!
October 11, 2021
A guide on how to get to know the real, genuine & pure streetlife. I've started to read the book & was hooked by the straight-forward approach of Jay when it comes to meet new people & learn from their stories. I mean to learn stories from people which we usually try to avoid in everyday life, because they seem to contradictive with our own life. But these guys give them a story, a character, a soul.
Johnny, an introvert who is hold prisoner by his own fears indoctrinated by his surroundings, but wants to break free resonated with me the most & Rick, who thought that being a writer means to live in an academic ivory tower, but slowly changes his view.
Its a book about friendship & how three different personalities can come together in search for the one true sentence. It is about a new & fresh movement that the literary world needs to badly & its about the people that were left behind, but holding more life in themselves than most of the people "who made it in life". At least that is what I read out of it.
I highly recommend reading this book. I took a lot of advice from this book. Started to post my poetry in the city too, try to be more outgoing & not be so arrogant about the people sitting at the corners. I learned to listen & to see. At least I try.
Thank you Jay, Thank you Waldun, Thank you Attard. Prophetic.
- A fan from germany
Johnny, an introvert who is hold prisoner by his own fears indoctrinated by his surroundings, but wants to break free resonated with me the most & Rick, who thought that being a writer means to live in an academic ivory tower, but slowly changes his view.
Its a book about friendship & how three different personalities can come together in search for the one true sentence. It is about a new & fresh movement that the literary world needs to badly & its about the people that were left behind, but holding more life in themselves than most of the people "who made it in life". At least that is what I read out of it.
I highly recommend reading this book. I took a lot of advice from this book. Started to post my poetry in the city too, try to be more outgoing & not be so arrogant about the people sitting at the corners. I learned to listen & to see. At least I try.
Thank you Jay, Thank you Waldun, Thank you Attard. Prophetic.
- A fan from germany
January 17, 2022
‘There’s A Tale to This City’ — Never before have I felt this drive to travel, take to the streets, talk to anyone I encounter, and write down everything I see. This is the best book I’ve read in 2021 (and I have told everyone in my personal life that they should read this as well). The trio of writers have crafted a wonderful narrative, structured on shifting perspectives, all about the shared experiences one might have on the streets. At its core, it’s a story about friendship, about the connections we make, even with people that we never thought we would. It’s a story about meditation, and how silence can break open the mind. It’s a story about escaping the suburbs and moving out to the city. It’s a story about coffee shops and train stations. It’s a story about finding a tale to tell, if only one is brave enough to go looking for it.
‘There’s A Tale to This City’ has lit a fire under me that I have never experienced before. It has inspired me to take to the streets and look for the tale in my own city.
We all have stories to tell; we all just have to be brave enough to go looking for them. If you want a shot of bravery, if you want to tell stories but can’t seem to find them, please read this. It’ll give you that courage you need.
‘There’s A Tale to This City’ has lit a fire under me that I have never experienced before. It has inspired me to take to the streets and look for the tale in my own city.
We all have stories to tell; we all just have to be brave enough to go looking for them. If you want a shot of bravery, if you want to tell stories but can’t seem to find them, please read this. It’ll give you that courage you need.
January 30, 2022
A book that combines a fusion of poetry, narration, diaries, and gazes into the experiences into the city of Melbourne. The book was unique, as it had a combination of writers fusing the pieces together, providing the readers with their experiences meeting one another and wandering in the city. I liked the originality and creativity put into this book, as this is the first time I had read a book that had a collaboration of thoughts conveyed through different aspects of story-telling. This is great piece of work, and I am happy that it was published, kudos to Jay, Jaidyn, and R.C. Waldun. With hopes, I hope that you all collaborate on another project, as I am excited to see what is next for you. And as someone who lives in Canada, I hope to one day travel to Melbourne to see what it entails and to see the tale of the city. ;)
November 7, 2021
I've been a big fan of these guys for a while. I started off by watching RC Waldun's videos on Youtube and I was really excited about his enthusiasm for literature and writing. From there I watched all of Jay's videos and all of Jaidyn's videos.
Fast forward to November 5th and I got this amazing book for my birthday. This book feels like a new genre of gritty street writing and the descriptions made me feel like I was there, even though I'm in Ireland and not in Melbourne. It felt like an escape during the crazy pandemic that we've had. I felt as if I was a part of the group and as if they were my friends.
Fast forward to November 5th and I got this amazing book for my birthday. This book feels like a new genre of gritty street writing and the descriptions made me feel like I was there, even though I'm in Ireland and not in Melbourne. It felt like an escape during the crazy pandemic that we've had. I felt as if I was a part of the group and as if they were my friends.
September 25, 2022
“‘Ah well…’ Before Johnny could fire up a ramble, Jay said ‘This is it, isn’t it? One more coffee’”
There’s a Tale to This City, is the story of three writers based and semi-based in the City of Melbourne, and their unification and friendship, connecting through writing and stories. This is a beautiful book about observing, listening and seeing.
Written by a close friend of mine and some of my inspirations, jumping into the grit and grime of Melbourne’s alleyways, streets and everyday struggles, these three brilliant writers tell a tale of seeing what is happening right before us that most exert effort to not notice. Cannot wait for more of their work, and I hope pick this one up.
There’s a Tale to This City, is the story of three writers based and semi-based in the City of Melbourne, and their unification and friendship, connecting through writing and stories. This is a beautiful book about observing, listening and seeing.
Written by a close friend of mine and some of my inspirations, jumping into the grit and grime of Melbourne’s alleyways, streets and everyday struggles, these three brilliant writers tell a tale of seeing what is happening right before us that most exert effort to not notice. Cannot wait for more of their work, and I hope pick this one up.
October 14, 2021
'There's a Tale to this City' drags you out onto the streets of Melbourne and shows you the whimsical, the disturbing, and the gritty. The underlying messages of hope, optimism and friendship are so valuable during these times of lockdown, isolation and chaos.
The pacing is perfect - I was so enthralled by the adventures of the three protagonists that I couldn't put the book down until I had finished it!
Can't wait for the second installment!
The pacing is perfect - I was so enthralled by the adventures of the three protagonists that I couldn't put the book down until I had finished it!
Can't wait for the second installment!
September 17, 2021
4/5
A blisteringly honest and raw account of Melbourne within a niche that offers a remarkable introspection cutting to the city's very core. Reflective of post-modern grunge and offbeat storytelling, There’s A Tale to This City finds itself in a new and exciting age of literature and literary genre. If you love literary fiction and/or live in Melbourne, this is a must-read!
A blisteringly honest and raw account of Melbourne within a niche that offers a remarkable introspection cutting to the city's very core. Reflective of post-modern grunge and offbeat storytelling, There’s A Tale to This City finds itself in a new and exciting age of literature and literary genre. If you love literary fiction and/or live in Melbourne, this is a must-read!
October 31, 2023
A charming story of three young writers finding their way, revealing a zest for life hidden beneath the dirty sidewalks of their city.
Digestible little vignettes capturing moments in time.
This book is a beautiful declaration of youth and its vigor for adventure and understanding.
Digestible little vignettes capturing moments in time.
This book is a beautiful declaration of youth and its vigor for adventure and understanding.
January 26, 2022
An interesting and different insight into living in Melbourne during lockdown. Introducing you to the people you see but may never interact with.
January 1, 2022
Earlier this year I discovered R.C Waldun's YouTube channel and then in turn Jay and Jaidyn's respective channels. As an aspiring writer with a shared love for The Beat Generation and Gonzo journalism, the videos and words of these three writers were instantly relatable and enjoyable. When they announced that they had written a book together focusing on the streets of Melbourne in an effort to begin a new literary movement I was immediately sold. I didn't know what to expect at first, curious to find out how three writers collaborating would work, the answer is brilliantly. The book details the trios beginnings and adventures during their time together, living, experiencing, documenting and writing. The book is a delight to read, flowing effortlessly from page to page until you reach the end and wish there was more. The authors wear their influences on their sleeves but confidently and masterfully write in their own unique ways. It is unflinching and unapologetic in its honesty, Riding the wave of prose with a whole cast of interesting characters from the Melbournian streets that most people wouldn’t cast a second glance at but who the authors instead engage and learn about, discovering how these folks add to the magic of the city.
I would advise anyone with a love of writing to read this but especially writers in particular. To borrow from Hunter S Thompson - whose influence amongst others lingers in these pages - This book “was like an eerie trumpet call across a lost battlefield” as if calling to other writers across the globe, saying here we are, come and join the ride.
I would advise anyone with a love of writing to read this but especially writers in particular. To borrow from Hunter S Thompson - whose influence amongst others lingers in these pages - This book “was like an eerie trumpet call across a lost battlefield” as if calling to other writers across the globe, saying here we are, come and join the ride.
June 20, 2026
There’s a Tale to This City by Jay Ventress and Jaidyn Luke Attard is a remarkable and deeply human book that celebrates the beauty hidden within everyday life. More than just a story, it is an invitation to slow down, pay attention, and rediscover the people and places we often overlook. Through vivid storytelling, heartfelt reflections, and unforgettable characters, the authors transform the streets of Melbourne into a living tapestry of voices, dreams, and experiences. Inspired by real encounters, the book explores themes of friendship, creativity, compassion, and the power of listening.
What makes this book truly special is its authenticity. Ventress and Attard write with warmth, honesty, and curiosity, capturing both the grit and magic of urban life. The shifting perspectives create a rich and immersive reading experience, allowing each voice to contribute something unique to the narrative. The result is a story that feels spontaneous, heartfelt, and profoundly inspiring.
At its core, There’s a Tale to This City reminds us that every person has a story worth hearing. It encourages readers to look beyond assumptions, embrace connection, and find wonder in unexpected places. Thought-provoking, uplifting, and beautifully crafted, this is a book that lingers long after the final page. Whether you're a lover of literary fiction, travel writing, poetry, or simply stories about human connection, this book is an absolute gem and a memorable celebration of the stories that surround us every day.
What makes this book truly special is its authenticity. Ventress and Attard write with warmth, honesty, and curiosity, capturing both the grit and magic of urban life. The shifting perspectives create a rich and immersive reading experience, allowing each voice to contribute something unique to the narrative. The result is a story that feels spontaneous, heartfelt, and profoundly inspiring.
At its core, There’s a Tale to This City reminds us that every person has a story worth hearing. It encourages readers to look beyond assumptions, embrace connection, and find wonder in unexpected places. Thought-provoking, uplifting, and beautifully crafted, this is a book that lingers long after the final page. Whether you're a lover of literary fiction, travel writing, poetry, or simply stories about human connection, this book is an absolute gem and a memorable celebration of the stories that surround us every day.
March 20, 2023
An amazing account of three young writers exploring not only the streets of Melbourne but the stories and lives of the people who live there. The three young writers are refreshing characters in their own right, empathetic, challenged, spiritual, sensitive to the tales of the street and especially in a difficult time of Covid. The warmth of their friendship and attitude towards others is a highlight for me.
The tales themselves are sensitively dealt with. This is no walk-in-the-park subject matter. They are witnessing people in crisis and are adept at delivering each scenario compassionately.
The commitment each character gives to their craft is to be admired and although the ending is tinged with sadness, there is of course a world that awaits each.
To Be Continued would be much appreciated.
The tales themselves are sensitively dealt with. This is no walk-in-the-park subject matter. They are witnessing people in crisis and are adept at delivering each scenario compassionately.
The commitment each character gives to their craft is to be admired and although the ending is tinged with sadness, there is of course a world that awaits each.
To Be Continued would be much appreciated.
November 9, 2021
I've been following Jay on Instagram for a while now and I really liked what he was talking about, what he was writing about. I discovered RC Waldun and Jaidyn a bit later. And then this book came out. Three strangers become friends and talk about their friendship, about writing, about how changable life is, but above all they write about Melbourne and its strange people. There's a story to everything, and they found the stories of Melbourne.
Through their clear and sincere writing, they show us how rewarding it can be to become truly aware of our surroundings. It's fresh, instense, kinda weird... I really enjoyed it!
Through their clear and sincere writing, they show us how rewarding it can be to become truly aware of our surroundings. It's fresh, instense, kinda weird... I really enjoyed it!
January 29, 2022
This isn't just a book, it's a literary experience. Stuffed with life, with attention, with all its doubts, challenges and fears, with the transforming fire of a friendship that bonds and changes lives. Beautifully manufactured and orchestrated, it is a fantastic journey on the edge of lyric, personal experiences and story telling. Enjoy it! The words and the sentences in this book are dense, but not in an exhausting way, rather it nudges you to slow down, be attentive and to take it all in. This is what literature of our age needs. Thank you Jay, Johnny & Rick. You guys did something amazing!
March 2, 2023
This book was so fun to read. Going on a Journey with this group of young and wild writers was such an adventure and I would recommend it to anyone!
While I was reading it and exploring the other works and writings by the authors, I felt a feeling that I never felt often before: That pull towards writing. Maybe one day I'll find a group of people to go on an adventure with as well.
Until then, I hope you are having a great day!
While I was reading it and exploring the other works and writings by the authors, I felt a feeling that I never felt often before: That pull towards writing. Maybe one day I'll find a group of people to go on an adventure with as well.
Until then, I hope you are having a great day!
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