They say if you can remember it, you weren’t there…the 1960s: a boiling cauldron of social unrest and change, political turmoil, war and assassination, where youth culture, drugs and free love rule and rock musicians are the new prophets. A new Australia is also emerging from this revolutionary tide, swept up by the hunger for a different rhythm, a fresh voice, a new way. Peter McKinnon’s debut novel, The Songs of Jesse Adams, is the reimagining of the Jesus story, set in Melbourne and Sydney’s Kings Cross in the 60s.

Jesse Adams is a boy from the bush, a farmer’s son who breaks from the ties of family and life in a small country town to follow his heart. A rock musician propelled by his dreams and his love of music - with a mission of his own. As he begins to gather around him a band of drifters and rough-hewn battlers plucked from society’s edge, it becomes clear that something else is afoot. There is something more to this young man with the gift for song and deep, penetrating eyes. Crowds flock to hear his voice, and people are touched and lives are changed in unexpected ways. Suddenly there is as much interest in what he says and does as there is in the music he performs.

With the Vietnam War exploding around them and the various voices of protest rising to a crescendo so too does the acclaim and impact of this man. He becomes a symbol of hope and freedom for those on society’s edge - and a darkening threat to those who seek to protect the status quo. As Jesse Adams’ fame grows so does the interest of powerful media, political and religious figures in this enigmatic figure who steadfastly refuses the advances of fame and power. There is something about Jesse Adams that confronts and challenges the powerful interests who want to keep things just the way they are; a magic that lifts and inspires many but threatens those who cannot control him.

In one tumultuous week this clash comes to a head - with sickening consequences. Who will emerge victorious? How far will loyalty and love for someone stretch when the odds are stacked high against him? And is there more than meets the eye to this voice that rises above the tumult and refuses to be shut down?