Chris Bundy on ‘Baby, You’re a Rich Man’

• C&R Press

Chris Bundy’s debut novel, Baby, You’re a Rich Man, follows a fallen celebrity, Kent Richman, as he tries to revive his career after a tragic incident that costs him his wife and his starring role on a popular Japanese show. The plot moves quickly and Kent travels through Japan, toward a Buddhist retreat where his manager has hired a film crew to document Kent’s “recovery.” In the grips of a secret meth addiction and an obstinate need to find himself back in the limelight, Kent follies and declines further into self-induced mire, all the while imagining how everything can work out for the better in spite of all the problems he faces.

Max Currie’s fine illustrations are used sparingly - at the beginning of each chapter - and complement the narrative well. The illustrations, along with a number of articles from “Star-Gazer.com” about Kent, result in an innovative format that brings the reader into Kent’s world and Japanese celebrity obsession.

Bundy’s novel, filled with violence, drugs, lust and illuminating flashbacks, gives the reader no time to get comfortable, leaving no choice but to press on and hope for the best for the protagonist that does so much to trip himself up.

Bundy took the time to discuss the book via email.

Kent Richman is a very interesting character, from his looks to his career to his problematic habits. Where did the Kent Richman character come from? Is he part of you, a person you know or does he embody a known celebrity?

In Japan I watched television in an effort to learn the language. Japanese game and panel shows make up a substantial percentage of TV. They are noteworthy for their amplified sets, extravagant celebrities, and pretty vacuous content. Comedians and other celebrities, most of whom make a living on these shows and do little else, host them. The content often revolves around comic banter (most of which is scripted), a bizarre activity or challenge put to the panel regulars and guests.