Jim Newton on Jerry Garcia and The Grateful Dead

Interested in a magnificent exploration of 1960's counterculture? Of San Francisco's ground zero in igniting a small counterculture community into a movement that would change the world in a thousand different ways? Of the genius who became one of the most enduring symbols of the counterculture? Of course you are, because it's one of the most thrilling times in contemporary American life.

Jim Newton, a Writers Bloc favorite (he's the author of the superb biography of former Governor Jerry Brown, Man of Tomorrow), explores the complexity of Jerry Garcia, frontman not only for the Grateful Dead, but arguably for the counterculture movement itself.

In his new book, Here Beside the Rising Tide, Newton questions the successes and failures of American pop culture (and counterculture) through Jerry Garcia. His evolution as one of the most imaginative bandleaders, musicians, icons, of his time is based on a foundation of authenticity and integrity. Newton explores what qualities, what art, what messages made Jerry Garcia the embodiment of the 60's peace movement. Here Beside the Rising Tide is as loving, compassionate, and all encompassing as a Grateful Dead concert. 

Jim Newton is a journalist, former editor and bureau chief of the Los Angeles Times, and lauded biographer of guys whose names are Jerry. 

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