BOOK REVIEW: BECOMING MR NICE – THE HOWARD MARKS ARCHIVE by Amber Marks

BOOK REVIEW: BECOMING MR NICE – THE HOWARD MARKS ARCHIVE by Amber Marks
No Exit Press
Rrp $39.99
Hardcover, November 2021
Reviewed by Shane Pinnegar
90%

Howard Marks’ story remains a riveting ride, six years after his death and more than thirty years after he was ‘banged up’ in the USA for his drug smuggling activities.

A drug smuggler he may have been, but a more likable, charming, charismatic and entertaining one – not to mention benevolent and intelligent – you would struggle to find.

This book to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the release of his autobiography Mr Nice in 1996, is a collection of artifacts from his personal archive, curated by his daughter Amber Marks, a writer, barrister and comedian.

This volume works well in unison with Marks’ original work – it elaborates upon his words, shows more context and detail. As a standalone, however, there are moments when it lacks the same, and I found myself reaching for Wikipedia a few times to set scenes. I wouldn’t have minded Ms Marks provided a bit more context in her own words through these sections.

This is but a teensy gripe, mind you – Becoming Mr Nice is gripping, chock full of unseen photographs, court transcripts, documents, mementos, passports, letters and most importantly, Marks’ previously unpublished writings.

Becoming Mr Nice will serve not only as “an introduction to Howard Marks for a new generation,” but also as a refresher to older fans. After all, name one other convicted drug smuggler who inspired a generation of musicians, did incredibly successful hilarious spoken word tours like a rockstar, acted in movies, presented documentaries, ran for parliament, and lobbied for the legalisation of marijuana, all whilst remaining the The Nicest Drug Smuggler ever.

Mr Nice, that’s who.

 

Category: Book Reviews