James Keene Boeken

Featured on Dateline and CNN, the true story of a young man destined for greatness on the football field—until a few wrong turns led him to a ten-year prison sentence. He was offered an impossible mission: Coax a confession out of a fellow inmate, a serial killer, and walk free. Jimmy Keene grew up outside of Chicago. Although he was the son of a policeman and rubbed shoulders with the city’s elite, he ended up on the wrong side of the law and was sentenced to ten years with no chance of parole. Just a few months into his sentence, Keene was approached by the prosecutor who put him behind bars. He had convicted a man named Larry Hall for abducting and killing a fifteen-year-old. Although Hall was suspected of killing nineteen other young women, there was a chance he could still be released on appeal. If Keene could get him to confess to two murders, there would be no doubt about Hall’s guilt. In return, Keene would get an unconditional release from prison. But he could also get killed. A story that gained national notoriety, this is Keene’s powerful tale of peril, violence, and redemption.

Exploring the life of Jimmy Keene before the gripping events of Black Bird, this narrative delves into his extraordinary experiences that set the stage for his later challenges. The book offers insights into his unique background and the circumstances that shaped him, painting a vivid picture of a life filled with unexpected twists and complexities. Through his journey, readers will uncover the motivations and influences that define Keene's character and the pivotal moments that lead him to his fateful encounter with Larry Hall.

Exploring the life of Jimmy Keene before the events of Black Bird reveals a world filled with extraordinary experiences. The narrative delves into his unique challenges and the complexities of his character, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow. Keene's journey offers insight into his motivations and the circumstances that shaped him, providing a compelling backdrop to the unfolding story.