Jack Kerouac: King Of The Beats

Description

In conformist 1950s America, Jack Kerouac's "On the Road" was greeted with dismay by the traditionalists and with delirium by those who craved the freedom he symbolized and the universe he created. Ever since, his hunt for the big experience and his longing for greatness have turned him into an icon. Barry Miles, a friend of Kerouac's, provides a portrait of this complex figure whose joyous incoherence, drug-induced ecstasy, genuine mysticism and constant craving has inspired many to take to the road.

Barry Miles is a bestselling author of numerous biographies and cultural histories of the Beat Generation luminaries, The Beatles, the sixties movements and its musicians. He lives in London and France.

[Miles's] mastery of Beat Generation know-how must surely be unrivalled. * Sunday Telegraph * Thorough and enthralling ... An excellent portrait. * Mail on Sunday * Compelling and honest. * The Times *