There aren’t many suburbs in New Zealand that could sustain a book all of their own - but in writing The Grey Lynn Book, Matt McEvoy found enough material for a trilogy.
As a result, early reaction from locals has seen them fall into two groups: those who are in the book, and those who think they should be.
Everyone he encountered seemed to have a suggestion for another topic he should write about or another person he should talk to. When he was interviewing David Hartnell, for instance, the Ponsonby News columnist told him about the amazing Diana Wong, who still lives in the Grey Lynn house where she was born more than 80 years ago, and the piece on Wong became one of the highlights of the book.
As a result The Grey Lynn Book is a kaleidoscopic representation of all aspects of Grey Lynn life – people, places, history, buildings, institutions and culture. The Polynesian immigrant story and strong gay tradition are well represented, as are landmark spaces such as Grey Lynn Park and events such as the Grey Lynn festival.
One of the most delightful things about the book has been the number of unknown links between people in its pages.
Publisher Paul Little, for instance, was surprised on the night of the book’s launch when his older brother pointed out that their was a photo of their father on page 151.
None of those involved in the book’s production knew until someone else pointed it out that shop assistant “Jimmy McDonald” on page 231 is now better known worldwide as Lorde’s drummer, Jimmy Mac.
There was sadness too when one of the book’s subjects Graham Brazier died after the book had gone to press. Fortunately, there was just enough time to note his passing in the chapter devoted to him.
Even Grey Lynn residents of many decades have learnt things about their home in the books pages – the Maori history, the area’s industrial traditions, a cinema that was rumoured to be a Communist front.
But the majority of people have been surprised at just how beautiful the book is, making the most of Stephen Entwisle’s sharply observed photography and the luxuriant design by Katy Yaikmis.
The Grey Lynn Book: The Life and Times of New Zealand’s Most Fascinating Suburb by Matt McEvoy, with photographs by Stephen Entwisle, Paul Little Books, $60, www.paullittlebooks.co.nz