Nick Schou

Nick Schou is an investigative journalist and author best known for his work exposing government misconduct and examining the dark corners of American politics. As Managing Editor of OC Weekly for over two decades, he earned recognition for his deep reporting on law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and drug policy. His 2006 book "Kill the Messenger" brought widespread attention to the story of journalist Gary Webb and the CIA's connection to cocaine trafficking, later becoming the basis for a major motion picture starring Jeremy Renner. Schou's other notable works include "Orange Sunshine" about the Brotherhood of Eternal Love and "The Weed Runners" examining California's marijuana trade. Through his investigative work, Schou has received multiple Orange County Press Club awards and established himself as an authority on topics ranging from police corruption to the history of psychedelic drug culture. His reporting regularly appears in major publications including LA Weekly and The Nation. His books and journalism focus particularly on untold stories from Southern California, combining extensive archival research with in-depth interviews to shed light on hidden aspects of American history and politics. The film adaptation of "Kill the Messenger" in 2014 brought his work to an even broader audience while reinforcing his reputation for thorough investigative reporting.

Readers value Schou's detailed research and ability to uncover hidden stories, particularly in "Kill the Messenger." Amazon reviews highlight his thorough documentation and clear presentation of complex investigations. What readers liked: - Extensive sourcing and fact-checking - Clear writing style that makes complex topics accessible - Balance between investigative detail and narrative flow - Personal interviews that add depth to historical accounts What readers disliked: - Some found "Orange Sunshine" jumped between too many characters - A few readers wanted more analysis beyond raw reporting - Occasional complaints about pacing in longer sections Ratings across platforms: - Kill the Messenger: 4.4/5 on Amazon (127 reviews), 4.1/5 on Goodreads (456 ratings) - Orange Sunshine: 4.2/5 on Amazon (89 reviews), 3.9/5 on Goodreads (378 ratings) - The Weed Runners: 3.8/5 on Amazon (42 reviews), 3.7/5 on Goodreads (156 ratings) One reader noted: "Schou presents evidence methodically without sensationalism, letting readers draw their own conclusions."

Kill the Messenger (2006) Documents the story of journalist Gary Webb, who uncovered connections between the CIA, Nicaraguan Contras, and cocaine trafficking into the United States, leading to his professional downfall and eventual death.

Orange Sunshine (2010) Chronicles the Brotherhood of Eternal Love, a spiritual group in Southern California that became one of the largest LSD distribution networks of the 1960s and early 1970s.

The Weed Runners (2013) Examines California's marijuana trade and the complex dynamics between growers, dealers, and law enforcement during the state's transition toward legalization.

Gary Webb - Webb's investigative journalism exposed CIA involvement in drug trafficking, as chronicled in "Dark Alliance." His work on government corruption and intelligence agencies covers similar territory to Schou's investigations.

Peter Dale Scott - Scott writes about deep politics and the intersection of intelligence agencies with criminal enterprises. His books examining political assassination, drug trafficking, and government misconduct parallel Schou's focus on exposing institutional corruption.

Robert Parry - Parry's investigative work uncovered major elements of the Iran-Contra scandal and CIA operations. His journalism focused on government misconduct and intelligence agency overreach mirrors Schou's reporting approach.

Alfred McCoy - McCoy documented CIA involvement in the global drug trade through "The Politics of Heroin." His research on the relationship between intelligence agencies and drug trafficking aligns with themes in Schou's work.

David Harris - Harris chronicled 1960s counterculture and drug policy through books like "Dreams Die Hard" about the Brotherhood of Eternal Love. His work on California's psychedelic history covers similar ground as Schou's "Orange Sunshine."