August 13

Howard Marks was one of the world's most prolific cannabis smugglers during the 1970s and 1980s. Adopting the alias Mr Nice, he claimed to have smuggled large quantities of hashish between continents. After his arrest and imprisonment, he chronicled his life in the bestselling memoir Mr Nice. He later became a prominent legalisation campaigner and public speaker on drug policy reform. Marks cultivated a larger-than-life persona and remained a cultural icon until his death in 2016.

Peter Wright, born in 1953, is an English historian whose work focuses on the political and social developments of modern Britain. He has published several books and articles that combine rigorous scholarship with engaging narrative. Wright’s research often explores the impact of wartime politics and social change on British society. His writing is praised for making complex historical events accessible to a wide audience. In addition to his publications, he has lectured at universities and contributed to public history projects.

Born in 1961 in New Jersey, Perrotta earned a degree in English from Yale University before teaching creative writing and journalism. His debut novel, Election, published in 1998, was adapted into a 1999 film starring Reese Witherspoon and Matthew Broderick. He followed with acclaimed novels such as Little Children, The Abstinence Teacher, and The Leftovers, the latter of which became a successful HBO series. Perrotta's writing is noted for its sharp wit, keen observations of suburban life, and complex characterizations. He continues to write novels and screenplays that explore the intricacies of American culture and relationships.

Born in 1962 in Boston, Massachusetts, Slattery studied drama at The Catholic University of America before launching his career in theater and commercials. He rose to prominence with his portrayal of advertising executive Roger Sterling on AMC's Mad Men, earning two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor. Slattery has also directed and produced films, including the drama God's Pocket, and helmed episodes of popular television series. His film credits include roles in Iron Man 2, The Adjustment Bureau, and Spotlight. In addition to his on-screen work, he has contributed as a screenwriter and continues to collaborate on projects across film and television. Slattery's versatility and craftsmanship have established him as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Quinn Cummings rose to fame at age six with an Academy Award-nominated performance in 'The Goodbye Girl'. She later earned acclaim as a bestselling author on parenting and wine. Cummings invented the HipHugger baby carrier, combining innovation with practical design. Her candid writing style and entrepreneurial ventures have inspired parents and creatives alike. She continues to share her humor and insights through books, blogs, and speaking engagements.

Will Clarke burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel 'Lord Vishnu's Love Handles,' earning praise for its sharp wit and irreverent humor. His subsequent works, including 'The Worthy' and 'I, Fatty,' blend surreal scenarios with biting satire. Clarke's unique voice has been compared to that of Kurt Vonnegut and Joseph Heller for his ability to tackle serious themes through absurdist comedy. A Baltimore native now living in Florida, he continues to write novels and short stories that challenge conventions. His engaging characters and unexpected plot twists have won him a dedicated following among fans of contemporary fiction.