Hunter S. Thompson - The Rum Diary

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson is a semi-autobiographical novel set in 1950s Puerto Rico, following journalist Paul Kemp as he takes a job at a struggling English-language newspaper in San Juan. Surrounded by alcohol, gambling, corruption, sex and a cast of eccentric expatriates, Kemp becomes increasingly disillusioned with both the newspaper business and the chaotic world around him.

Written in Thompson’s sharp, irreverent style, the novel combines journalism, tropical escapism and social satire, while exploring the clash between American expatriates and the rapidly changing culture of Puerto Rico. Originally written in the early 1960s but not published until 1998, The Rum Diary offers an early glimpse of the voice and worldview that would later define Thompson’s gonzo journalism.