Howard Marks

Howard Marks (born 1945 in Kenfig Hill, Wales) was a cannabis smuggler turned author and campaigner. He studied at Balliol College, Oxford, later became an international cannabis courier, was arrested by the DEA, served seven years in prison, and wrote the autobiography Mr. Nice. He campaigned for cannabis legalization and is commonly known by the nickname 'Mr. Nice.'

Born 1945 in Kenfig Hill, Wales; studied Physics and the History and Philosophy of Science at Balliol College, Oxford; used numerous false identities (review cites 43); arrested by the DEA, served seven years; author of Mr. Nice; campaigned for cannabis legalization; died 10 April 2016.

A wry, partly admiring review of Howard Marks's memoir Mr. Nice. The reviewer highlights Marks's Oxford background and transformation from courier to author and campaigner. The book is recommended for readers curious about the life of an international cannabis courier, with warnings for the reckless. The review mixes cultural criticism with affectionate astonishment.

For:Readers of memoirs and true-crime, cannabis legalization advocates, counterculture and 1970s–80s drug-history enthusiasts