Jack and Lem, by David Pitts, explores the enduring friendship between John F. Kennedy and Kirk Lemoyne Billings (aka "Lem").

Jack Kennedy and Lem Billings met at Choate and remained friends until the Dallas gunfire that ended Kennedy's life thirty years later. Although Lem was gay, their relationship was evidently always platonic and continued through WWII and after, as Billings pursued a career in advertising while also devoting much energy to advancing Kennedy's political career.

Lem became an adored member of the extended Kennedy clan and loomed large in the lives of the martyred Jack’s and Bobby's children. Though Lem never held an official role in the Kennedy administration, his friendship and insight were much valued, so much so that he had his own room at the White House. Billings also became a much-sought-after source, courted by dozens of Kennedy biographers until he died in 1981.

This is the story of Jack and Lem and the climate for gays during the Kennedy era— the story of a great friendship that grew and survived against the odds.

Jack and Lem will be discussed at the next meeting of the Book Discussion Group, to be held on Saturday, June 14 from 11:00 AM to noon at the Stonewall Library, 1300 E Sunrise Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, and simultaneously on Zoom: Meeting ID- 275139 4844 and Pass code- 076609