Meet Mike Niemeyer!
Michael Niemeyer is a former bookseller from Philadelphia, PA. He joined the Street Team in its inaugural week and has been active on all fronts. Read on to hear about his admiration for Sigourney Weaver and troubled clown past.
How did you first hear about Two Dollar Radio?
I first heard about Two Dollar Radio through The Spiral Bookcase. They are a great place to buy independent books. They put on great events for local and independent authors. Highly recommend people check it out!
What are some of your interests/background?
I'm interested in Media. I went to the University of the Arts for Communications with a concentration in Media Studies. How the world is saturated with it and how we let it into our lives. And, more relevantly, how good fiction responds to the transgressions of said media. Writing is always best when it includes the fabric that surrounds it and in the 21st century that's certainly the media, social or no.
What is your day job?
That's a good question! In an attempt to cheer up my answer, I'll be fairly whimsical: my day job includes not being overwhelmed by the beauty of life, letting the music flow through my veins a la David Bowie, and enjoying the snow flakes falling gracefully. I'm currently working on a book called The Book of Day Job.
Jeff Goldblum in Jurassic Park or The Grand Budapest Hotel?
Jeff Goldblum in The Grand Budapest Hotel. He has so much more pathos and weirdness and loveliness. He's a dignified eccentric.
What’s your favorite Two Dollar Radio title?
My favorite Two Dollar Radio title would have to be The Reactive by Masande Ntshanga. It is full of life and death, cynicism and hope, and mixes the political and the personal effortlessly.
What else are you reading right now?
I've just started Rebecca Solnit's Men Explain Things to Me. I have heard so much about the book and am really into it. Her ability to make arguments stylish and persuasive floors me.
What’s been your favorite experience with the Street Team?
My favorite experience with the Street Team was creating a playlist for Haints Stay. I got to listen to music while reading the book and let the inner cowboy in me fly.
What’s your favorite thing to do in the city where you live?
In Philadelphia, I love going out to the Free Library to see author events. It's awesome to be able to listen to the author and engage with their material in an intimate setting like the Free Library Auditorium. The library itself is filled with wonder and imagination.
Are you a morning or an evening person?
I am definitely more of an evening person. I like the world slowing down from its sea of noise.
If you could have anything in the world, what would it NOT be?
If I could have anything in the world, it would not be free admission to every Donald Trump rally. I shiver with horror at the thought!
Are you more of a thinker or a feeler?
I'd say I'm more of a feeler. I need the tactile sensations of a good book or a lovely satin scarf or tap dancing in flats. Ultimately, I'm a softy and let my heart out when it needs to be let out.
What are you listening to RIGHT NOW?
I'm currently listening to The Marketts—'Here Comes the Ho Dads' from the Inherent Vice soundtrack. Loved the movie, book and soundtrack! Lucky charms!
What’s the scariest/bravest thing you’ve ever done?
The scariest thing I've ever done is become a clown. No, really. I was an anti-clown with a postmodern joke list that ended up terribly. But I did it! And wow! What a strange time in my life.
Chocolate or cheese?
I prefer chocolate. Specifically, pot brownies.
If you could go on a date with anyone, real or fictional, who would it be and what would you do?
Sigourney Weaver. I'd do my best not to embarrass myself and if necessary see if my charm works on someone who fights aliens, has funny interactions with Bill Murray, and generally remains a goddess in Hollywood.
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Michael Joseph Niemeyer - February 22, 2016
(Note: I am not currently a book slinger at The Spiral Bookcase. Hence the answer of what is my day job being a bit silly. Still a lovely place, though. Just thought I’d correct that. Sorry for the mix up! Anyways, say la vie!)