About John Gourhan

Meet John Gourhan

John Gourhan spent 30 years in the banking and investment banking world, both on Wall Street and in San Francisco. He returned to school and attended Saint Mary’s College, California, where he received his MFA in Creative Writing. He has authored short stories, children’s stories, poetry, and a centennial history book.

Mendocino, Waves of Renewal is his first major work of fiction.

His lovely and tolerant wife, Aleso, has been at his side for over forty years. She is a well-regarded Real Estate Broker/Agent in the East Bay. 

Their two sons have graced them with three lovely grandchildren.

John is the author of the Tommy Finnegan mystery/thriller novels, Shades of New York, which will be available soon, and The Igorot, the second mystery set in the Oakland hills of California

 The sequel to Mendocino, Waves of Renewal, is coming soon: ‘Mendocino, Fractured Moments.  His Screenplay, Mendocino Coast, was selected as a finalist in the Golden Brad Awards.

He has authored a Young Adult novel and a series of Children’s tales- AVM Stories and AVM Thrillers.

He has written a number of short stories including a set focused on Fly-fishing.

John plays a passable game of golf, loves walking rivers and fly-fishing, picks at his guitar, and has coached a myriad of sports. He also enjoys the occasional glass of wine while watching his favorite football team, the NY Giants.

Writing Philosophy

John Gourhan believes that storytelling has the power to heal, inspire, and connect people across experiences. His writing blends emotional depth with vivid imagery, creating stories that stay with readers long after they finish.

Book Collection

Featured Works

Panda Blue: The Story of Kwong, The Blue-Headed Panda

— by John Gourhan

Mendocino: Waves Of Renewal Kindle Edition

— by John Gourhan

Sequoyah Country Club Kindle Edition

— by John Gourhan

Stay Connected

When not writing, John finds inspiration in nature, quiet reflection, and the beauty of everyday moments. His work is shaped by a deep appreciation for storytelling as a means of connection and growth.

Panda Blue

By John Gourhan

When three children discover a secret house and the mystical lady who lives there, they find themselves swept away to China to follow the adventures of Kwong, the young panda who finds himself excluded due to his unusual blue head. Panda Blue is the first in a series of Animal, Vegetable, and Mineral (AVM) stories written for First Chapter readers covering ages 5 through 12, and was written to educate and stimulate parents to spend precious moments laughing and learning with their children!

Mendocino: Waves Of Renewal

By John Gourhan

William Butler is prepared to die, but will he abandon his final mission for the sake of family, friends, and unexpected love?
Perched on the stunning cliffs of Mendocino overlooking the Pacific, the Butler compound becomes a sanctuary for three women whose lives converge in unexpected ways. Catherine Henley flees her haunting past, daring to hope for a second chance at love. Madeleine Carter arrives with her endurance racing horses, hoping to retire in proximity to her lifelong best friend. Amilee Garcia-Scalli escapes an abusive marriage and seeks refuge within the Butler compound’s protective walls.
As their destinies intertwine with William Butler’s own, these women must confront their deepest fears and most profound hopes. Each faces a critical moment of transformation. Will they find the strength to rewrite their stories and claim their power?

The Centennial History book of Sequoyah Country Club

By John Gourhan

The Sequoyah Country Club of Oakland, California, Golf and Community Centennial History. The book comprises bios and classic photos covering 100 years: 1938-44 Oakland Opens, Club Formation, Architects, Photo Essays and Drawings, Past Presidents, and Notable Members. Depicts each hole and anecdotal tales. A wonderful dive into the people and places comprising this special part of Oakland’s and the Bay Area’s robust History.