This biography tells the complete story of John Lennon’s life, including the controversial influence of his music, art, and philosophy upon the world.
John Lennon was a singer, songwriter, activist, artist, and writer whose life and work left an indelible mark on rock music and the world. Lennon first became famous as the founding member of The Beatles, and his songwriting partnership with bandmate Paul McCartney remains legendary in the history of pop music. Lennon’s creative work, which extended well beyond his years as a Beatle and lasted until his final days, still provides enjoyment and inspiration to millions around the world.
This biography provides a comprehensive account of John Lennon’s life for students and general readers, integrating information from interviews conducted during his life with published accounts of Lennon from a range of perspectives. It covers the time from his birth in Liverpool in 1940 to his murder in New York City in 1980.
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal
Gr 9 Up–Since Lennon’s murder in l980, many books and magazine articles have attempted to portray this complicated man. Edmondson’s biography makes a valiant effort to be objective. The book reads like an annotated chronology of his life, often described month by month. Each chapter is followed by footnotes that draw heavily on two adult titles, Ray Coleman’s Lennon: the Definitive Biography (1992) and Philip Norman’s John Lennon: The Life (2008, both HarperCollins). Lennon was truly a man of many contradictions. He is known for his support of peace movements and yet he had turbulent relationships with his family and fellow Beatles. His volatile marriage with Yoko Ono, his business dealings, and his struggles with drugs and alcohol are covered in minute detail. The book points out that he was a creative person who experimented with overdubbing, sound effects, and technical tools. A few photos are scattered throughout. A brilliant chapter on the challenges of writing biographies is well worth reading before starting the book itself since it poses several questions about the personal and private lives of people and muses about whether it is necessary to understand an individual in order to appreciate his contributions. However, in terms of teen appeal, Elizabeth Partridge’s book (Viking, 2005) has a better narrative flow and is more accessible.–Peggy Fleming, formerly at Churchville-Chili High School, Churchville, NY. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review
“A brilliant chapter on the challenges of writing biographies is well worth reading before starting the book itself since it poses several questions about the personal and private lives of people and muses about whether it is necessary to understand an individual in order to appreciate his contributions.” ―School Library Journal
About the Author
Jacqueline Edmondson is associate dean for undergraduate and graduate studies in the College of Education at the Pennsylvania State University.
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