Jude Kessler knew from a young age that she wanted to tell the story of someone significant. As a Beatles fan since 1963, what better story to tell than the life of her favorite musical hero, John Lennon? Today, Kessler’s John Lennon Series is included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a testament to her dedication and passion.
Kessler, who holds two degrees from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, and a master’s from the University of Maryland, has spent over 38 years conducting research, collecting thousands of footnotes to tell Lennon’s story from both an academic and personal perspective. The John Lennon Series takes readers on a journey through Lennon’s life, offering the unique perspective of a "fly on the wall" as they experience his story unfold.
The first book in the series covers the first 20 years of Lennon’s life, with subsequent books written in three-year increments. Book Two covers the years 20-23, Book Three covers age 24, and Book Four is a two-part series covering age 25.
Kessler is set to release the sixth book in the ten-part series in March 2025. This book will focus on 1965, the year the Beatles completed their final tours of the U.S. and the U.K., as well as released their groundbreaking sixth studio album, Rubber Soul.
Enoch Doyle Jeter, a local pub owner and founder of the Northeast Louisiana Music Trail, illustrated Book Three of the series. Jeter has also hosted a John Lennon birthday party every year since 1980, a celebration recognized as the longest-running John Lennon birthday party in the world. It has been honored twice by Yoko Ono. This past year, Jeter hosted the 45th annual John Lennon birthday party at Enoch's in Monroe, with Kessler providing the birthday cake.
Kessler spoke fondly of Lennon’s qualities, saying, "John was open to any experience. He was a seeker. There are many days when I want to give up, and I think John Lennon would not give up."
Lennon’s story is one of life’s tragedies transformed into beautiful music. It’s a story that continues to inspire us all to press on and "give peace a chance."
For more information or to purchase The John Lennon Series, visit https://www.johnlennonseries.com.
