Peter Richardson

Peter Richardson is an author and cultural commentator known for his critically acclaimed works on American counterculture, journalism, and California history. His books explore figures such as Hunter S. Thompson and Carey McWilliams, as well as institutions like Ramparts magazine and the Grateful Dead. He is currently completing a book about the first decade of Rolling Stone magazine. Richardson's essays have appeared in prominent publications including The Nation, The New Republic, and the Los Angeles Times, while excerpts of his work have been featured in the New York Times and Mother Jones.

Richardson's career spans academia, publishing, and journalism. He taught courses on California culture at San Francisco State University from 2006 to 2023 and previously served as an associate professor of English at the University of North Texas. A Fulbright Senior Scholar in Iceland and an NEH Summer Seminar fellow at Harvard, he also authored a textbook on stylistic revision, now in its second edition. His editorial experience includes roles at the University of California Press, Harper & Row, and PoliPoint Press. Richardson's expertise has made him a frequent contributor to documentaries, radio programs, and podcasts, as well as a speaker at universities and cultural events.

A recipient of the National Entertainment Journalism Award for Online Criticism, Richardson has served on the board of the Bay Area Book Festival and moderated panels on history, music, and journalism. His commentary has been featured in media outlets across North America and internationally. Born in California's East Bay, he holds a Ph.D. in English from UC Berkeley and a B.A. in economics from UC Santa Barbara. He resides in Sonoma County.