What Do You Do When You’re Lonesome

“There's no book on American music like What Do You Do When You're Lonesome. In this brilliant book, Jonathan Bernstein tells the raw and unflinching story of an artist born at the crossroads of so many American myths. But Bernstein turns it into a heartbreaking epic portrait of this country—and the songs that keep haunting our darkest national dreams.”

“Jonathan Bernstein approaches this story with the heart of a true fan, the diligence of a veteran journalist, and the empathy of a person wanting to deeply understand the man beyond the music and the mythology.  A beautifully written book about a beloved and misunderstood artist: about the love that binds us together, the flaws that tear us apart, and the songs that keep us going when everything else fails. Impeccably contextualized in the ever-changing world of Nashville and roots music, it sticks with you long after the last page is through—just like Justin’s songs.”

“A biographical gut punch. In telling the story of Justin Townes Earle, he manages to explore grand sweeping themes—the nature of creativity, the complexities of family, fame and addiction—while tracing the small, human details of one man’s journey. A beautiful portrait and a profound investigation, harrowing and heartfelt all at once, it’s a work that will stay with you for a long time.”