Jim Ocean with Kathy Ocean
John Lennon’s Glasses
Book Review by Ross Anthony
What if the ghost of your hero appeared intermittently, then somewhat indifferently gave you the kick in the ass you didn’t know you needed?
Down and out and existentially discouraged songwriter “Jimmy Drake” finds himself at the end of his rope when a small army of deceased musicians, including a couple of dead Beatles, conspire to save not just dejected Jimmy, but also a world increasingly distracted by the negative.
It’s a supernatural journey for the aging peace & love rockers, though I’d love to know what the younger generation thinks of the tale. The story in part takes place in the cosmos, but the theme is universal. So, I’d love to know what younger readers think of the story. Feel free to write in.
By the way, the book’s theme can be summarized by a quote from a prominent voice of the 70’s (though an author, not a musician) Richard Bach:
“Argue for your limitations, and sure enough, they’re yours.”
While Bach is not mentioned in this book, loads and loads of other musicians are. Jimmy Ocean appears to be expressing his reverence for these fallen heroes. Some of these references weave in well and even cleverly, but others feel packed in just for fun. Still, I have to admit, I really enjoyed the insights/fun facts regarding them as many were my heroes as well. Actually, I really appreciated the appendix of sorts that not only acknowledges a long list of deceased musicians, but also concisely clarifies the circumstances surrounding their deaths. (I did not fact check.)
Jimmy Ocean includes links to the songs that Jimmy Drake writes as part of his journey. How cool is that? Read a chapter, then listen to the author sing about what you just read. (This Jimmy Ocean and Jimmy Drake appear to have a lot in common. Perhaps not unlike David and Ziggy?)
While I enjoyed the fun interjections of phrases from popular songs, a few times they were accompanied by an explanation of where they came from which on occasion subtracted from the fun.
Jimmy’s personal inward journey and endearing dark humor will win you over. The cosmic Woodstock and dark chord allegorical threat aren’t quite as engaging, but still amusing, and fortunately don’t take over the real story.
Rock and Roll is often preceded by sex and drugs. Fortunately, this tale tones that down. A couple of really sweet romantic moments take the place of sex – both of those warm moments are quite touching. I loved reading them. And a side from a doobie here and there, and some historical overdoses, the tale is mostly devoid of drugs.
Here’s one of my favorite lines because it falls so perfectly out-of-place into place: “Later that night, she googled ‘socialist’ and got into an argument with her boyfriend.”
A beautifully written epilogue that thanks a lot of living talent gracefully and warmly closes the story.
I enjoyed this read!
For some reason, 2 years ago, with 4 books on my kindle, I just lost my mojo for reading. Last month, I put on “John Lennon’s Glasses” and true to its theme, got myself out of that funk. So Thank you Jimmy Drake for getting me back into reading!
Full Disclosure: I’ve jammed with Jimmy Ocean and Kathy Ocean. I’ve also directed/shot/edited 4 music videos for them. You can enjoy them here.
Read more Book Reviews by Ross Anthony.
This article originally appeared on RossAnthony.com on June 19, 2025.