The California Kid Becomes #1 True Crime Bestseller, Outpacing The Last Kilo

Nationwide – February 11, 2025 – (USANews.com) — Owen Hanson’s memoir, The California Kid, has soared to the top of Amazon’s Audio Store, securing the #1 spot in the true crime category. The book, which chronicles Hanson’s dramatic transformation from a USC football player to the mastermind behind an international drug empire, has captivated readers with its raw and unfiltered storytelling.

Hanson, once a promising athlete, found himself entangled in the high-stakes world of gambling, loan sharking, and drug trafficking. His memoir provides an inside look at the complexities of the criminal underworld, offering a firsthand account of his rise and eventual downfall. Written from his own perspective, The California Kid sheds light on the motivations and consequences of a life driven by power and risk.

The book’s success has sparked widespread discussion among true crime enthusiasts. According to Amazon rankings, The California Kid has surpassed The Last Kilo, a highly anticipated memoir by Willy Falcon, which previously held the top spot. Readers have praised Hanson’s storytelling, with one reviewer calling it “a gripping, unflinching look at the world of organized crime.” Another described it as “riveting, raw, and impossible to put down.”

Beyond its commercial success, The California Kid has also caught the attention of Hollywood. Mark Wahlberg’s production company, Unrealistic Ideas, is currently developing a documentary series based on Hanson’s story, further cementing its cultural impact. The adaptation is expected to explore the real-life events depicted in the memoir, providing a visual retelling of Hanson’s journey from athlete to convicted drug trafficker.

Available in hardcover, paperback, and audiobook formats, The California Kid can be purchased through major retailers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. As interest in Hanson’s story continues to grow, the book remains a standout in the true crime genre, offering readers a compelling glimpse into the hidden world of international drug cartels.

For more information, visit The California Kid’s official website.