Even twenty-five years after his death, John Lennon’s life still fascinate teens. His message of love and hope are as applicable to today’s world issues as they were during his lifetime. This beautifully designed book includes an archival photograph on almost every page, some familiar and some that will be new most readers, including pictures of John as a small boy. After an introduction that presents John at the height of his fame and influence in 1969, the chronological treatment of Lennon’s life that follows portrays a boy and later a man who was brilliant and creative but also insecure. Throughout much of his life and through many roles—aspiring musician, member of the Beatles, activist, writer, artist, husband, solo artist—John Lennon’s music was a way of trying to get at the essential truth. He dabbled in meditation, drug use, and various forms of psychoanalysis, often for the same reason. Lennon accomplished so many things in his short life, and teen readers will be intrigued by certain facts about him, such as his dyslexia, that have not always been publicized as much as other, more salacious, facts, such as his penchant for drugs. The extensive bibliography, source notes, acknowledgments and other end matter make this an excellent example of a soundly researched piece of nonfiction. The energy that drove John Lennon pulses in Partridge’s prose. (Ages 13–17)