Brian Epstein has been given a primary credit for the Beatles rise to the summit of worldwide fame in addition to their phenomenal musical talent and abilities. Unfortunately, he died prematurely in 1967 at the age of 32. His death has been described as being under mysterious circumstances. He died of a combined alcohol and barbiturate overdose ruled as accidental, at the age of 32. It was known, however, that he had been severely depressed, being sad at his declining influence with the band he loved.

An interesting note about Brian is that there are some critics that claim he made a lot of financial mistakes in the early years regarding the merchandising side of Beatles memorabilia. Even John Lennon felt that they had been short-changed. However in Brian’s defense, he was also learning the business ropes along with the band he managed!!!

Ghostwritten by Derek Taylor

Title: A Cellarful of Noise

Publisher: Souvenir Press, London

Publication Date: 1964

Have a signed copy of this book obtained from collector Pete Nash who jokingly speculated that the copy was dedicated to journalist, Don Short.

Kevin Roach was instrumental in developing a fundraising campaign to build a statue dedicated to Brian Epstein in Liverpool, and making that a reality. He has produced many Beatles-related books.
The print copy of this book is sold out. Recently learned of some controversy surrounding the release of this title.

Hide Your Love Away: An Intimate Story of Brian Epstein as told by Larry Stanton Hardcover – 2 Dec. 2020

by Robin Bragg-Marcelli (Author), Rick Marcelli(Author), Larry Stanton (Author)

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Trine Day (US) (2 Dec. 2020)
• A very interesting book that deals with the private life of the Beatles manager. The authors suggest through one of Brian’s close friends that Brian was associating himself with many shady characters that were also contributing to his depressed state prior to his premature death. Copies of this book were available on Amazon, eBay and Abe Books.

I enjoyed this book by Debbie Geller, published in 2000.

The Brian Epstein Story

by Debbie Geller

Published by Faber and Faber Ltd, 2000

Alternate cover of the Geller book published by St. Martin’s Press:

The Fifth Beatle The Brian Epstein Story – Limited Edition

Vivek J. Tiwary

Published by M Press, 2013

This limited edition of this groundbreaking graphic novel features a signed tip-in sheet by creators Vivek J. Tiwary, Andrew C. Robinson, and Kyle Baker, along with a bonus section including unique Beatles and Brian Epstein memorabilia and behind-the-scenes sketches, a unique, textured cover, and a slipcase. Limited to 1500 signed and numbered copies. Vivek has been working on a television series based on his book for quite some time. Hope to see it become a reality soon. This is an excellent graphic novel type book which is a worthwhile addition to any Beatles collection!

This book has some built-in credibility as it was written by Beatles friend and well-known journalist, Ray Coleman. Coleman was a good writer who was not prone to tabloid journalism.

Brian Epstein: The Man Who Made “The Beatles”

by Ray Coleman

Published by Viking, 1989

A book by Epstein friend, the late Joe Flannery:

Standing In the Wings: The Beatles, Brian Epstein and Me

Published by The History Press, 2018

Joe Flannery with Mike Brocken

Business associate and partner of Brian Epstein

I Should Have Known Better: A Life in Pop Management–The Beatles, Brian Epstein and Elton John

by Geoffrey Ellis

G. Ellis spent forty years in the music business, working closely with the Beatles and Brian Epstein during the 60’s.

Published by THO, 2004

Alistair worked for Brian Epstein and was affectionately known as Mr. Fix-It. He accompanied Brian Epstein to the Cavern when Brian was checking out the band. And the rest as they say….is history!!!

With the Beatles

Alistair Taylor

Published by John Blake, 2011

Derek Taylor tells some of his interactions with Brian in this book

As Time Goes By: Living in the Sixties with John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Brian Epstein, Allen Klein, Mae West, Brian . Los Angeles, New York City, and on the Road

Published by Straight Arrow Books, San Francisco, 1973

A film which featured Ian Hart as John Lennon (Ian had also played Lennon in the “Backbeat” film.)

This film deals with the speculation that John and Brian had an affair in Barcelona, Spain.

An hour long interview with Joanne Petersen who worked for Brian and was at his house when his body was found.

Joanne Petersen: The Beatles, Brian Epstein and me | ABC Conversations Podcast – YouTube

An unpublished book that was intended for release by one of Brian’s assistants, Joanne Petersen.

It is rumored that Joanne decided not to publish the book after consulting with and abiding by the wishes of the Epstein family. Once again, the interview with Joanne above seems to contradict the sensationalistic premise that was about to be used to promote the book if it was going to be published.

This is the photo of the cancelled book as it originally appeared on Amazon.

In closing, would like to present a special book by author Terry Crain who talks about Brian Epstein’s company NEMS (North End Music Store/s) and the products officially licensed by NEMS and the Beatles for merchandising. This is truly a fabulous book intensively researched by the author. First edition was published in 2019 by Terry Crain. An updated 2nd edition has also appeared of this fine book.

Is Brian the Fifth Beatle? What do you think?

Which is your favourite Brian Epstein book?

Just received news that author Philip Norman has completed and submitted his own Brian Epstein book for publication! The wagon train continues…

Buzz

GET TERRY CRAIN’S FANTASTIC BOOK ON NEMS