Partridge, Elizabeth. (2005). John Lennon: All I Want is the Truth: a biography. New York: Viking.
Recommendation source:
Reading level: Grade 9+
Brief summary: (from School Library Journal) Partridge cuts through the mythology and misinformation surrounding the life of the legendary singer/songwriter and goes a long way toward revealing the complexities of his personality. She relies heavily on Lennon’s own writings and the wealth of interviews he granted during his lifetime. What emerges is an unflinchingly honest portrait of a troubled, angry, and highly creative individual who was captivated by rock ‘n’ roll and often used it as a means of expressing his unhappiness and confusion. Partridge skillfully captures the amazing speed at which the Beatles were swept into astonishing popularity that led to an unrelenting schedule of touring, songwriting, and recording that slowed down only when touring became both too grueling and too dangerous. She doesn’t shy away from the sordid details of the band’s mercurial rise to fame and fortune but her nonjudgmental commentary focuses first and foremost on the music. Lennon’s life after the dissolution of the Beatles is explored in depth, as are Yoko Ono’s influence and the worldwide impact of his death.
Librarian’s rating: ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
