This is the F#$%ing News

This is the F#$%ing News by Patrick Gower is a compelling memoir from one of New Zealand's most outspoken journalists, offering readers an insightful look into the transformative journey of a man committed to exposing the truth no matter the personal cost. With a career spanning decades, Gower takes us on a candid exploration of his life, sharing personal stories that intertwine with some of the most significant news events in recent history.

From enduring the challenging years of teenage bullying over his appearance to forging a path through the high-pressure environment of the Press Gallery, Gower has tirelessly pursued justice and truth. His dedication is evident in his relentless advocacy for the victims' families in the Christchurch terrorist attacks and his support for those plagued by cystic fibrosis. Gower's courage and tenacity are constants in a world where news is ever-changing and often unpredictable.

However, this relentless pursuit has not been without sacrifice. Gower openly discusses the personal toll his career has taken, sharing deeply personal insights into his struggles with alcohol addiction, explosive anger, and periods of anxiety and depression. Ironically, it was through his work on a documentary examining the pervasive influence of alcohol in New Zealand society that Gower experienced a pivotal moment of self-realisation. This revelation prompted him to make the life-changing decision to quit drinking, a choice that has strengthened his resolve despite subsequent setbacks, such as the abrupt closure of the entire Newshub operation.

Written with humour and brutal honesty, This is the F#$%ing News is not only a collection of extraordinary stories from a diverse career but also a profound reflection on personal redemption. It sheds light on the unique challenges faced by those in the journalistic field while affirming Gower's position as a persistent voice for truth and integrity. Readers will find themselves engrossed in this unflinching narrative, which highlights both the exhilarating highs and the daunting lows of a life spent uncovering stories that matter.