The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story, 10th Anniversary Edition

By Vivek J. Tiwary, Andrew C. Robinson, Kyle Baker and Steve Dutro. Published by M Press. 

Softcover, 184 pages, Colour, 2023 (originally published 2013)

“Heartbreaking, exhilarating and unexpected . . . A complete triumph.”—The Hollywood Reporter

“10/10. A masterpiece . . . Brilliant in every aspect.”—IGN’s Best Original Graphic Novel, 2013

The Fifth Beatle brings to life the true story of visionary Beatles manager Brian Epstein—the man who launched the Beatles to worldwide stardom.

This 10th Anniversary edition of the critically acclaimed, award-winning international bestseller features a new cover, an accompanying musical soundtrack/playlist curated by writer Vivek J. Tiwary, a new introduction by legendary music manager Kelly Curtis (Pearl Jam), and an expanded sketchbook section.

A visionary artist manager, Brian Epstein engineered Beatlemania—guiding the Beatles from basement gigs to unprecedented international stardom while wrestling with personal demons and the trappings of massive ambition and success. An award-winning, uplifting and inspiring human story about chasing your dreams, The Fifth Beatle also reveals an important, unsung chapter in the Beatles’ history.

Whether you’re discovering the Brian Epstein story for the first time or an old fan revisiting this groundbreaking graphic novel, now a part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Library and Archives Permanent Collection, a splendid time is guaranteed for all. 

“The Fifth Beatle gives life to the man behind the phenomenon that changed music forever. Even if you’ve never heard Brian Epstein’s name, you know his work. Vivek’s telling of this untold hero’s story gripped me from the very first page– this heart-warming, inspirational graphic novel is perfect for old and new Beatles fans alike.”—Jon Chu (Wicked, In The Heights, Crazy Rich Asians)

“The Beatles’ immortality, as documented in this meticulously researched, masterfully written and gorgeously illustrated graphic novel, is Epstein’s legacy, as are the boundless torrents of love, hope and optimism shared through their songs.”—Long Island Press
  
“. . . writer Vivek J. Tiwary, and artists Andrew Robinson and Kyle Baker, captured the soaring thrill of
music with comic book art in their Brian Epstein epic The Fifth Beatle. It’s a must-have for any Fab Four or comics fan that brings an era of music history to life so vividly.”—Kevin Smith (Clerks, Chasing Amy)
 
“The Fifth Beatle, with its heightened graphic artistry, brings to life Brian Epstein’s singular contribution not just to the Beatles, but to pop culture as a whole. Whether you’re new to the story or know it like I do, this intimate portrait of a man as lonely as he was beloved, perfectly captures what it means to believe in something big. Look out for a great cameo appearance by Col. Tom Parker!” Baz Luhrmann