Scan barcode
max_lemuz's review against another edition
5.0
The young addict of whom Brown speaks of is a possible byproduct of his own past addictions, and through such reflective moments as this, he is able to tell a story that transcends that of the typical "addict in the midst of addiction" narrative. Instead, Brown is digging deep and showing how the addict identity, even during sobriety, is "a real disease" and one in which never leaves you. Not just in its external struggles, but in the way it shapes one's relationships and the guilt, love, and regret that comes with them. Each story in this integrated collection is a wonderful and oftentimes heart wrenching reflective journey that readers will be able to use to question their own impact in the world.
ironandsilver's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Drug use, Suicide, Addiction, Terminal illness, Alcoholism, and Suicidal thoughts
missantarctica's review against another edition
4.0
I’m super blah towards AA and the author (rightfully for him) writes about it a lot, it clearly plays a huge part in what got him sober. Even that difference in sobriety journey aside, this is a really good book.
tayboynton's review against another edition
5.0
“It feels like I’m praying to nothing and that’s what I’m trying to get away from. The nothingness. That life is nothing. That I am nothing. There’s an emptiness inside me that so badly needs to be filled, and when you take away the drugs and alcohol I’ve been trying to fill it with, I don’t know where to begin.” I am not an addict. But as someone who has spent a lot of time desperately trying to understand my father & his addiction, this memoir hits home harder than any other substance use disorder related book I’ve read.
James Brown pulls readers in with his well crafted writing and powerful anecdotes. He explores concepts of triggers, relapse, and hope for the future in structured chapters through a realistic, yet deeply empathetic lens. This is a beautifully written, honest book about addiction and the shame, stigma, and mental health concerns that so often accompany it. Brown is the real deal & I will recommend this book until the end of time.
James Brown pulls readers in with his well crafted writing and powerful anecdotes. He explores concepts of triggers, relapse, and hope for the future in structured chapters through a realistic, yet deeply empathetic lens. This is a beautifully written, honest book about addiction and the shame, stigma, and mental health concerns that so often accompany it. Brown is the real deal & I will recommend this book until the end of time.
bedaau0816's review
5.0
I felt so many emotions while reading this collection of essays, being in recovery myself. It took me back and made me reflect on my own journey with addiction, the bad the ugly, my rock bottom, and now my recovery. It’s made me consider going to meetings to build my sober support system, to further help me stay on the right track. What I appreciate about this book is that James doesn’t shy away from any aspect of what it’s like to be an addict/alcoholic. I’ve also learned more about AA meetings so now I’m more intrigued to go to them! I highly recommend this book!
More...