Description
Delve into the rich tapestry of JFK's youthful years with the captivating biographical novel, exploring themes of dreams, politics, and the complexities of friendship. This brand new release, published by Encounter Books, showcases the unique voice of Lem Billings, JFK's lifelong companion. In this vibrant narrative, discover the intertwined lives of dreamers and political figures amidst the glamorous backdrop of Hollywood. As Billings shares his experiences alongside Jack, readers will be drawn into a world filled with ambition, love, and heartbreak. This engaging book provides an insightful glimpse into the vibrant era of the early 20th century, revealing how Jack’s heart was forever altered by the Hollywood dreamscape. The emotional weight of loss and loyalty is beautifully captured, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts and fans of the Kennedy legacy alike. With an ISBN of 9781641771344 and a sturdy cloth-over-boards format, this volume is perfect for both display and reading. Shipping is complimentary on this item, and delivery typically takes up to 6 weeks. Please note that once an order is placed, it cannot be canceled. Immerse yourself in an evocative account of ambition, love, and the dreams that shaped American history.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781641771344
Format: Cloth over boards
Year: 2021
Publisher: Encounter Books
Description:
"What's the point of being Irish anyway if you don't think the world will break your heart?" asks Jack Kennedy. He is spellbound by a song about Ireland's neverland of dreams: "How Are Things in Glocca Morra?"
No one better knew the real JFK's dreams and passions than Lem Billings, a prep-school roommate who made himself "sidekick everlasting." The late Peter Collier had the great fortune to obtain oral histories from Billings himself, and they became the basis for a vivid biographical novel in Lem's voice.
On assignment with the Hearst newspapers, Jack goes with Lem to Hollywood, that neverland of dreams he loves for "the feeling that something might happen." Things do. Communists and gangsters vie for control of the film industry. There are labor strikes, blackmail, assassinations. And there are glamorous actresses. Joseph Kennedy Sr. hovers oppressively over his son and aims to derail his romance with Valentina, survivor of an Italian prison camp and daughter of a mobster.
The world breaks Jack's heart, and he dives into politics with steely purpose. But the interlude in Hollywood sends ripples through the Kennedys' lives. When Lem gets the news of JFK's assassination, he instantly thinks of Val's father-a man whose middle name is vendetta.
Billings never got the answers he sought about Jack's death. As for his intimate knowledge of the Kennedys, he remained ever discreet, but left a trove of recollections to be opened by a later generation. Channeled through Collier's lively and imaginative prose, they illuminate shadowy corners of an extraordinary American saga.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781641771344
Format: Cloth over boards
Year: 2021
Publisher: Encounter Books
Description:
"What's the point of being Irish anyway if you don't think the world will break your heart?" asks Jack Kennedy. He is spellbound by a song about Ireland's neverland of dreams: "How Are Things in Glocca Morra?"
No one better knew the real JFK's dreams and passions than Lem Billings, a prep-school roommate who made himself "sidekick everlasting." The late Peter Collier had the great fortune to obtain oral histories from Billings himself, and they became the basis for a vivid biographical novel in Lem's voice.
On assignment with the Hearst newspapers, Jack goes with Lem to Hollywood, that neverland of dreams he loves for "the feeling that something might happen." Things do. Communists and gangsters vie for control of the film industry. There are labor strikes, blackmail, assassinations. And there are glamorous actresses. Joseph Kennedy Sr. hovers oppressively over his son and aims to derail his romance with Valentina, survivor of an Italian prison camp and daughter of a mobster.
The world breaks Jack's heart, and he dives into politics with steely purpose. But the interlude in Hollywood sends ripples through the Kennedys' lives. When Lem gets the news of JFK's assassination, he instantly thinks of Val's father-a man whose middle name is vendetta.
Billings never got the answers he sought about Jack's death. As for his intimate knowledge of the Kennedys, he remained ever discreet, but left a trove of recollections to be opened by a later generation. Channeled through Collier's lively and imaginative prose, they illuminate shadowy corners of an extraordinary American saga.