How would you describe your job?
I deliver books, sidelines products, shelving, mail and whatever else needs transport to all Powell's locations.
Where are you originally from?
I was born in Truckee, CA.
What did you do before you came to Powell's?
I worked for Bullseye Glass for six years. Before that, it was mostly restaurants.
What is the best part of your job?
Getting to know employees at all the stores.
What is the most interesting part of your job?
Learning to be patient on the road, and to leave all near-misses, aggressive behavior, and traffic jams behind at the end of the day.
Share a memorable experience you've had on the job.
There's a roadside sign-holder — a modern panhandler — along my Burnside route. We've kind of gotten to know each other. Most of our interactions are just general greetings and joking around, but it's pretty surprising how much you can learn about a person in the 30-second intervals between lights. I've come to worry about him on the days he doesn't show up.
What makes a good book in your eyes?
One that educates, surprises, and entertains.
What was the last book you loved?
The Son by Philipp Meyer.
Recommend a book or author you think everyone should read.
The Wall by Marlen Haushofer.
Walk us through your favorite route when browsing books at Powell's.
I spend most of my time in the Pearl Room. I love art books. On my way to the register, I'll stop in the Blue Room for literature.
What's your biggest literary pet peeve?
This longstanding infatuation we have with clever writing.
Tell us about your first memorable reading experience.
I read
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee when I was 9 or 10. Messed up my childhood.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse.
When you're not reading, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Drawing is the most complete way to get outside of myself, so I do that when I can. I really enjoy gardening, too. And I run a natural soap and skincare business (Barnwell Co.) with my wife and a friend, which takes up a lot of free time. I'm very into essential oils and botanicals.
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