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The Healing Rosary: Rosary Meditations for Those in Recovery from Alcoholism and Addiction Review

I've used Fr. Peyton's rosary book for years and highly recommend that, (esp since his cause for sainthood has just been opened). However, Mike D.'s meditation definitely gave me a new perspective on the rosary. It's such a powerful tool and if you see any sin as an addiction, you can customize his meditations into something relevant to your situation. Also his conversion story was quite touching as well.

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Getting a Winning Verdict in My Personal Life: A Trial Lawyer Finds His Soul Review

In sharing his unique story, Gary provides an insightful, inspiring and motivating read. This book perfectly captures the thoughts and feelings that so many trial attorneys have on a daily basis, and it demonstrates just how a dedicated and caring attorney can overcome adversity and personal difficulties to pursue his clients' causes with zeal and passion. The book has left me more inspired and it has strengthened and reaffirmed my commitment to my family, to my clients and to a trial lawyer's work. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is a must-read for every trial attorney and for anyone who genuinely wants to understand the heart, mind and soul of a trial attorney.

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BONDAGE AND DISCIPLINE, SADISM AND MASOCHISM: Zack's Odyssey Part 1 Review

Bondage and Discipline Sadism and Masochism (BDSM) by Lusipher is a story about a 44 year-old married, black cab driver that is stuck in a rut and cannot seem to free himself. Zack is depressed, miserable with this job, his life, and feels he has not contributed enough to be deemed worthwhile. Married to a wonderful woman who works, cooks, cleans and is devoted to him just is not enough for Zack.
Zack is a functioning alcoholic who works the day shift as a cab driver, but at night he is introduced to an alternative lifestyle. Zack meets Sadie Sunshine a beautiful woman who is tempting and dangerous. She is just enough to get Zack aroused and interested in what she can offer him and make him forget about the sorry life he is leading.
Sadie needs to be needed and Zack loves to be wanted, but when he realizes he should not be dealing with this sadistic woman he is not fully aware of who he is or what he has become. Is desire and mutilation worth giving up your soul and your marriage? This book is filled with graphic sex scenes and details that will have you screaming to make it stop. I found this book to be nonetheless humorous, because it just did not seem very real to me at all. It was a stretch for me to read something of this magnitude, but I was lost and fighting to finish the story before it really got started. The print was way too small and the repetition drove me crazy. However, the book left me wondering what happened with Zack and his wife. Stay tuned for part two.

Reviewed by: Cheryl Hayes
APOOO BookClub


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When White Is Black Review

Family, genealogy, and racial categorization is explored in this family history and sociological look at race in When White is Black by John A. Martin Jr. In 1969, Martin, a former social service agency director, received a call in the early morning hours at his home in Berkeley, California, informing him that his mother, Eulalie, was killed in an accident. Just before the Alameda County coroner ended the conversation with Martin, he asked him what race is your mother? For though, she appeared to be white, the coroner questioned her living in a black neighborhood. Martin attempted to explain his mother's racial make-up as predominately white with Negro and Indian but accepted reluctantly that as a result of the one-drop rule, she would be classified as a Negro in death, as she was in life.

Thus began Martin's contemplation regarding the racial ambiguities of his mother's family that had plagued him most of his life. Martin methodically details the genealogy of both sides of his maternal lines of mixed-race people, beginning with his mother's paternal white ancestors who were from France and England. Martin's roots stemmed from Houston and Galveston by way of New Orleans. His family tree lists his ancestors with designations of mulatto, quadroon, octoroon, black, Choctaw and Seminole Indian. Beginning with the 1850 U.S. Census and through 1920, the government attempted to identify thousands of mixed-blood peoples with the term of mulatto. For one census year, 1890, the terms, quadroon and octoroon were added in an attempt to identify the percentages of African blood that existed in those who were not "white." Those designations were abandoned because of the unreliability of these labels and the census resorted back to using mulatto for all mixed black and white people until 1920.

Mama Peachey's family (Martin's mother's mother) passed for white until she was almost an adult. She told her children that they were different from darker-skinned Negroes and taught them to disdain, loud, ignorant, foul acting colored people. She told all five of her girls to be proud of their exotic good looks and to seek colored men who were educated and from other mulatto families as they would have better opportunities. In California, where Martin moved as a toddler, his mother and grandmother would regale the family with stories of being mistaken for white on the bus and putting those who made disparaging remarks about blacks in their place. After Eulalie's death, Martin and his brother would reminiscence about the times people would stare at them on the street when they were with their beautiful mulatto mother and how the teachers were always surprised when this white-looking woman showed up to claim her children, letting those teachers know her children were not the average Negroes and they were to be treated with respect.

Martin details the pain of living with a tortured mother who became an alcoholic. He left diverse Berkeley to go live with his father in Houston for a year during high school where he found the segregation of the 1950s Jim Crow Texas stifling, despite the black middle- class lifestyle his father's status afforded him. Though Martin never verbalized that his mother's alcoholism was attributed to her racial persona, he inferred that living in a nation where race is a prominent factor was a constant source of frustration. Martin also muses how ironic that his mother broke off an interracial affair with an Italian American man because of race, given the gradation of whiteness in her own family.

In the final analysis, Martin advocates for the abolishment of the one-drop rule and embracing a multiracial nation. It is his belief that white parents of mixed-children children should lobby the government for broader racial categorizations. Additionally he contends African Americans are opposed to a multiracial identification because it decreases their numbers. He thinks that although many blacks have mixed-blood they acquiesce to the black label out of a sense of loyalty that is misguided.

It was a walk down memory lane as Martin described landmarks of the Bay Area, particularly establishments in 1940s and 50s San Francisco, Berkeley and Downtown Oakland. This was a good look at identity and race with well-documented sources. I would recommend to those who research genealogy and have an interest in family history in a social construct.

Reviewed by Dera R. Williams
APOOO BookClub


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Alcoholism: The Genetic Inheritance Review

This is an inspiring book for anyone who is or knows an alcoholic. My mother-in-law is in the final stages of alcoholism. I felt like crying when I read this book because I felt like the author had met her or seen her. Just when we think there is no hope and that we are alone with this disease, we realize that others are out there, and that we can learn from their experiences. The descriptions are detailed and the personal accounts are vivid. Anyone who is an alcoholic or who knows an alcoholic should read this book.

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Dying for a Drink: A Pastor and a Physician Talk About Alcoholism Review

Dying for a Drink recounts the powerful story of one pastor's successful journey of recovery from the disease of alcoholism. After twenty years of sobriety, Alexander DeJong talks openly about his longtime struggle with alcoholism-his descent into heavy drinking, his shame and his fears of discovery, and his growing understanding of the disease through his family's support, group therapy, and the care of a Christian physician. Balancing the personal narratives of Alex DeJong and his wife with professional insights from Alex's treating physician, Dr. Martin Doot, the book helps readers understand the social, medical, and psychological elements of alcoholism. Each of the chapters also includes questions for discussion and reflection. Sensitive, honest, and caring, Dying for a Drink is a valuable resource for churches, counselors, health-care professionals, and individuals and their families who are struggling in the grip of alcoholism.







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The Absolute Truth About Alcohol & Alcoholism Review

Do you, or a spouse, or a sibling, or a relative, or a friend, or a valued employee, have a problem with alcohol? Do you understand why and how you, or they, developed this problem? Do you understand your, or their, behavior when you or they are intoxicated? Do you know the truth about the ingredients of alcoholic beverages and how they effect the mind and body, and why? Do you know, or have any idea, what to do to help yourself or anyone else with a drinking problem? Would you like to know why alcohol remains inexpensive, easily obtainable, highly advertised, and even socially acceptable when it causes so much harm in people's lives? Would you like to know the unsugarcoated truth about alochol and alcoholism?







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Alcohol Problems in Adolescents and Young Adults: Epidemiology. Neurobiology. Prevention. and Treatment (Recent Developments in Alcoholism) Review

Alcohol continues to be the substance of choice for today's youth, leading to serious physical, psychological, and social consequences. Alcohol Problems in Adolescents and Young Adults ably addresses this growing trend. The latest entry in the Recent Developments in Alcoholism series, it comprehensively presents a wide-ranging clinical picture of teen drinking - epidemiology, neurobiology, behavioral phenomena, diagnostic and assessment issues, prevention and treatment data - in a developmental context. Fifty expert contributors display the scientific rigor, practical wisdom, and nuanced analysis that readers have come to expect from previous volumes. Among the subjects studied in depth: - Initiation of alcohol use/abuse - Risk and protective factors for alcohol dependence - High-risk adolescent populations - Drinking habits of college students - Long-range consequences of teenage drinking - Family-, school-, and community-based prevention programs - Treatment of comorbid substance and psychiatric disorders Clinicians, researchers, and policy makers will find this a bedrock source of evidence-based knowledge, whether one's goal is choosing an age-appropriate assessment tool for eighth graders, preventing drinking among high school students, or understanding the alcohol-friendliness of campus culture. Here is a critical resource for all professionals dedicated to helping youngsters grow up sober.







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White Knuckles & Wishful Thinking: Learning From the Moment of Relapse in Alcoholism and Other Addictions Review

One of the FINEST books on the process of relapse. Mr. Du Wors presents a finely crafted work; clear and concise, offering the reader a NEW look at an old problem. Written for the practicing therapist, student, and most important of all, the recovering individual. SUPERB text for use in the classroom with begining students in the field of chemical dependency counseling. Mr. Du Wors brings deeper meaning and understanding to the idea that many recovering people experience, "One won't hurt." A fine blend of 12 step philosophy, and a practical, workable guide that will CHANGE the way you look at relapse - one drink, one cigarette, or one line of cocaine does not have to lead to another and another. A MAJOR WORK in the field of addictions that has been needed in a critical and long misunderstood area of human behavior. The chain of relapse has finally been broken. Read this book today it will CHANGE the way you view the relapse process!

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HOW TO BE FREE OF ALCOHOLISM, CANCER AND MANY OTHER DISEASES Review

I was very skeptical, but I used the methods in this book.
It was the wisest thing I have ever done for my health and my family.
It truly works!

HOW TO BE FREE OF ALCOHOLISM, CANCER AND MANY OTHER DISEASES

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Blurred Vision: One Woman's Memoir of Looking Beyond Abuse, Alcoholism, and Codependency Review

Francine may have had blurred vision, but her story provides the lens for others to see their own experience a bit clearer. This was a difficult read, because the person she wrote about is my brother. Even though I knew about his alcoholism, I had no idea of the misery she lived with day in and day out. My heart goes out to all those living with alcoholism and with alchoholic partners. I recommend this book to anyone living with someone who drinks. Francine shows that one can not only climb out of that darkness, but go on to create a wonderful life.

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Teacher of the Year: The Mystery and Legacy of Edwin Barlow Review

I'd like to congratulate Lawrence for "Teacher of the Year!" This outstanding book immortalizes the phenomenon of a teacher and makes me feel fortunate to have first-hand experience as a student in his class. Indeed, the well crafted story with its anecdotes, details and photos demonstrates that the homework was complete.

For years I believed there was an incredible story behind Mr. Barlow and the academic gifts he presented to his students. Thanks to Lawrence, I can now fully admire the humility of the American hero that was obscured within the exterior of the alleged curmudgeon...A+!

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God and Alcoholism: Our Growing Opportunity in the 21st Century Review

Dick B. dealt with this proliferating "goofy gods" recovery problem straight on. More and more therapists, counselors, rehabs, and even AAs are substituting absurd names for "god" in place on the one, true, living God who was the source of power relied on for recovery in A.A. Reverend Sam Shoemaker--dubbed a co-founder of A.A. by Bill W.--rejected such practices when he spoke to AAs at their International Convention. In this book, the author deals with the originating expressions--higher power, power greater than ourselves, and God as we understood Him--and shows how they were weak and compromising expressions that replaced the Heavenly Father, Creator, Maker, Father, God of our fathers, Father of Lights, and Spirit with plainly Biblical origins and meanings. In keeping with a belated deal made by three AAs--Bill W., Hank P., and Fitz M., the stage was set after the Big Book manuscript was readied for publication. Fitz protested that the change would obliterate the Christian and Biblical expressions which were part of the original program. Fitz lost. The Step language was changed. The original materials were simply tossed out and lost. And if all that merely involved a search for original meanings, the problem would be a tiny one. However, AAs, counselors, and those associated with recovery began calling their "higher power" a radiator, a light bulb, a tree, a table, a chair, Santa Claus, Ralph, Gertrude, a door knob, a rock, the goddess, and many many more idolatrous words and phrases. Such usage offends me because it deceives and misleads. It also clearly violates the Ten Commandments, which were revered in early A.A. And it is best answered, perhaps, by the explanation of such nonsense in Psalm 115. I am delighted that Dick looked at the Big Book titles, the Bible names and titles, and then documented all the places where the goofy god names replaced the Creator. I rejoice too in the careful studies by Stewart C., Dick B., and George T. over the years which showed that the word "God" and Biblical synonyms such as Creator, Maker, Father, as well as descriptive pronouns numbered over 400 in the Third Edition of the Big Book. By contrast, "higher power" is used twice--both times in the context of the word "God." I doubt that atheists and rim-runners will find much comfort in reading the facts as to how far the "God business" has gotten out of line; but I am sure that devout believers--Christians, Jews, Protestants, and Roman Catholics alike will welcome a book that tells it like it was instead of encouraging sick alcoholics to "find" and put other gods before Yahweh, the Creator. There's more to be read also in Dick's titles, Cured; When Early AAs Were Cured and Why; The Good Book and The Big Book; and The Good Book-Big Book Guidebook.

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The Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Patient Workbook Review

As someone who makes his living because of the existence of casinos I am always struck by the fact that some people just can't stop gambling. They would rather lose all their money and some would rather lose everything they have in life as long as they can play the games.

Now I don't think compulsive gamblers are any different than other addictive types. I knew someone who was told by his doctor that he was going to die - because he was running too much. The runner had thoroughly devastated his body and bled everytime he urinated.

The addicted will always be with us. This book addresses how to help them, if they can be helped. There is definitley something in the brain and in the personality that causes people to do the destructable.

Frank Scoblete: author of Golden Touch Blackjack Revolution! and Golden Touch Dice Control Revolution!

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"How To Overcome Alcoholism" Review

Do You Have a Friend or Family Member
Who is Abusing Alcohol?

Did you know that 40% of alcoholics
in the U.S. are women?

Don't Wait Until it's Too Late
Get the Answers You Need – TODAY!

Substance abuse is rampant and alcohol tops the list of all forms of abuse. Sadly, alcoholism does not discriminate. The chances are very high that you have a friend or family member who drinks too much.

The problem is that there are no clear-cut statistics. Even the number above is a best estimate. The reason is because most alcoholics are in serious denial.

The first step to getting help is to recognize the symptoms of alcoholism. They can be very subtle. Did you know that there are actually different "stages" of alcoholism? The more you can learn about alcoholism the sooner you can get help.

Can you separate facts from myth?

Did you know that high alcohol content in your body affects the immune system thereby hindering its ability to fight off diseases?

Did you know that beer does not have a lower effect of intoxication than wine or liquor?

Did you know that women alcoholics have higher risk then men for health problems?

Where to get the answers?

You can get them easily if you have the right tools and we have just what you need. "How To Overcome Alcoholism" will answer all your questions and help you on the road to overcoming alcoholism.

See what's inside:

· What is Alcoholism – Is it a disease or a vice? Read what certain groups of professionals have to say.

· Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse – Is it memory lapses, depression, anxiety, missing work or all of the above?

· What Are Some of the Causes of Alcoholism – And the consequences?

· Alcoholism and the body – We all know about the liver trouble, right? But are you aware of the other tolls it takes? Pretty scary stuff!

· Frying Your Brain – You've seen the ads, right? This is your brain on drugs? Well, guess what? Alcohol is a drug!

· The Alcoholic Family – Do you think that only the alcoholic suffers? Think again!

· More Facts versus Fiction – Think coffee and fresh air will sober you up? Think again.

· Alcohol and Senior Citizens – This is worse than you might think.

· Alcoholism in Teenagers – This is sad and on the rise. How to detect it and nip it in the bud.

· Alcohol and Nutrition – Find out how a good nutritional plan can overcome the bad effects from years of neglect.

· How to Treat Alcoholism – Learn about alcohol withdrawal syndrome as well as rehabilitation.

· No Cure for Alcoholism – Are you disappointed? It's the truth but there's more to know. Learn what that is inside.

Remember that people who abuse alcohol are in a state of denial. They don't believe that alcohol is a problem for them therefore they do not seek treatment.

You can't help someone to recovery unless you understand what alcohol abuse is, where it comes from and why the alcoholic has it. This is the first step is being able to lead someone you care about on the road to recovery.

Get the answers you need to help them today with "How To Overcome Alcoholism." Some day they will thank you!

Download "How To Overcome Alcoholism" Now!








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How To Overcome Alcoholism Review

Do You Have a Friend or Family Member Who is Abusing Alcohol? Did you know that 40% of alcoholics in the U.S. are women? Don't Wait Until it's Too Late Get the Answers You Need – TODAY! Substance abuse is rampant and alcohol tops the list of all forms of abuse. Sadly, alcoholism does not discriminate. The chances are very high that you have a friend or family member who drinks too much. The problem is that there are no clear-cut statistics. Even the number above is a best estimate. The reason is because most alcoholics are in serious denial. The first step to getting help is to recognize the symptoms of alcoholism. They can be very subtle. Did you know that there are actually different "stages" of alcoholism? The more you can learn about alcoholism the sooner you can get help. Can you separate facts from myth? Did you know that high alcohol content in your body affects the immune system thereby hindering its ability to fight off diseases? Did you know that beer does not have a lower effect of intoxication than wine or liquor? Did you know that women alcoholics have higher risk then men for health problems? Where to get the answers? You can get them easily if you have the right tools and we have just what you need. "How To Overcome Alcoholism" will answer all your questions and help you on the road to overcoming alcoholism. See what's inside: What is Alcoholism – Is it a disease or a vice? Read what certain groups of professionals have to say. Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse – Is it memory lapses, depression, anxiety, missing work or all of the above? What Are Some of the Causes of Alcoholism – And the consequences? Alcoholism and the body – We all know about the liver trouble, right? But are you aware of the other tolls it takes? Pretty scary stuff! Frying Your Brain – You've seen the ads, right? This is your brain on drugs? Well, guess what? Alcohol is a drug! The Alcoholic Family – Do you think that only the alcoholic suffers? Think again! More Facts versus Fiction – Think coffee and fresh air will sober you up? Think again. Alcohol and Senior Citizens – This is worse than you might think. Alcoholism in Teenagers – This is sad and on the rise. How to detect it and nip it in the bud. Alcohol and Nutrition – Find out how a good nutritional plan can overcome the bad effects from years of neglect. How to Treat Alcoholism – Learn about alcohol withdrawal syndrome as well as rehabilitation. No Cure for Alcoholism – Are you disappointed? It's the truth but there's more to know. Learn what that is inside. Remember that people who abuse alcohol are in a state of denial. They don't believe that alcohol is a problem for them therefore they do not seek treatment. You can't help someone to recovery unless you understand what alcohol abuse is, where it comes from and why the alcoholic has it. This is the first step is being able to lead someone you care about on the road to recovery. Get the answers you need to help them today with "How To Overcome Alcoholism." Some day they will thank you!







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Alcoholism and Other Drug Problems Review

I haven't read the entire book but have skimmed through it. I am amazed at the statistics recorded by the authors and how they are able to show the problems associated with alcohol and drugs from a medical standpoint. The authors treat alcoholism as a disease, which I have no problems with, but this doesn't mean that an alcoholic doesn't have any responsibility. They point out that alcohol-related problems costs our nation more than any other drug. Obviously the number of drunk-driving incidents shows that something is wrong in our culture.

I liked a number of things about the book, including the sociological aspects (a great history of alcohol in America is included as well as the cultural groups alcohol has most affected) and the section on prevention and intervention. Anyone who has been affected by alcohol--whether there is an alchoholic in the family or you yourself are addicted to it--ought to look through this book for a sobering look at what I feel is a genuine social epidemic.

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Alcoholism Myths and Realities: Removing the Stigma of Society's Most Destructive Disease Review

Doug Thorburn has made it his life's work to study and learn about alcoholism, our society's most destructive disease.

This book address the myths that still exist, (p.7) such as:

Myth#1, "brain damage occurs only in obvious alcoholics."
In truth, most recovering alcoholics admit their disease was triggered during their first drinking episode, usually at age 12 or 13.

They often say (p.9) "I felt powerful." This feeling of power results in the inflated ego that accompanies alcoholism. Thorburn states that the buildup of poison on the brain results in brain damage that causes distortions of perception and memory.

Thorburn debunks Myth#2, "the average age at which one becomes an alcoholic is 40." Many addicts began drinking alcoholically in their teens.

Myth #3- Alcoholism is a spiritual disease:
Recovering alcoholics (p.10) often confuse cause and effect, believing that loss of spirituality precipitated their alcoholism, when in actuality, the loss of spirituality is an effect of alcoholism. (I feel powerful, I feel like God).

Myth #4- You can choose not to be an alcoholic:
You can no more choose (p.11) not to have alcoholism than to have or not have, early-onset diabetes. All the alcoholic can choose not to do is drink.

Myth# 5- The addict is in denial:
"Denial" implies (p.13) a willful refusal not to admit to something. Since alcoholism causes self-favoring distortion of perception, and often no memory at all, there is nothing to admit. One cannot be in denial about something that he is incapable of seeing.

These are just a few of the 118 Myths that Thorburn addresses. The information that he provides can make a huge difference to all of us. With a greater understanding of this devastating illness, we can save ourselves years of grief, befuddlement, and confusion.

As with any illness, knowledge is power. This is especially true with alcoholism, due to the fact that the disease affects body, mind, and spirit, and causes such illogical, dangerous, destructive behavior.

Just as an early diagnosis of cancer increases the chances for successful treatment, so too does the early diagnosis of alcoholism increase the chance for a successful recovery.

This is Thorburn's mantra:
Learn to spot alcoholism in its early stages, before it has the time and power to upend lives, break hearts, and destroy families. Thorburn covers every aspect of the disease. He is a proponent of using "tough love" with the alcoholic; letting the painful consequences of the disease finally bring the addict to the realization that he or she, needs help.

This is a necessary book for anyone living in our drinking culture. Chances are you know someone right now, or might be living with someone, who is drinking alcoholically. With this powerful information, you may save a life. That life may even be your own.

The book has an excellent index that makes it very easy to find pertinent subjects. This book is a great, updated addition to the many classics on the subject. It should become a classic too. Very heartily recommended. I'd like to give it more than 5 stars!





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The Heart of Addiction: A New Approach to Understanding and Managing Alcoholism and Other Addictive Behaviors Review

I am licensed as a therapist specializing in chemical dependency and have worked in the field of addiction for many years and have treated hundreds of people and thousands of family members. I read about addiction constantly, review all research and I must say that although this book is very well written is fraught with the same misconceptions and twists of logic that have been around and answered for many years. This is just a more stylish manner of refuting redundant research and twisting logic by lumping terms together and holding out the hope that if an addict or alcoholic can address their inner demons they can use in moderation. The book equates compulsive obsessive behaviors such as sex addiction with alcoholism. It tries to convince you that apples are the same as oranges. It suggests that problems cause addiction when the opposite is true. This book would be totally refuted if openly subject to scientific review alone. It doesn't even address AA. They book is written by a therapist who wants to "treat" you for your "addictions" that are caused by your own supposed "inability to cope". Although this may be true of sexual compulsivity or hand washing, it simply does not fit with known and documented bio genetic predispositional properties and cellular bio mechanical attributes of chemical dependency. Ask a responsible therapist if individual counseling works on addicts. It almost always ends in failure. Why not address AA? Perhaps because it does not entirely jive with the premise of this book; That people can "learn" or be "therapized" into wellness from drug and alcohol addiction, which is not only irresponsible, but potentially hazardous to the alcoholic who is desperate to learn how to drink "normally". I guess, if not for the intentional misinformation, it could be an entertaining read for someone with OCD issues. The book perpetuates ignorance and false hopes about chemical addiction. A better read can be found in Milam and Ketcham's milestone book "Under The Influence."

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La cura del alcoholismo y otras adicciones (Alcoholism and Addiction Cure) (Spanish Edition) Review

In conjunction with many specialized doctors, psychologists, and spiritual counselors, author Chris Prentiss has developed an uplifting and empowering three-step program that breaks with the traditional notions of the origins and treatment of addictions. Used by the most successful rehab clinic in the world Passages Treatment Center- it has assisted in the cure of over 84% of patients. Description in Spanish: El presente libro expone una visión novedosa del tratamiento de las adicciones. Sostiene que éstas no son el origen de los problemas, sino una respuesta a condiciones subyacentes de orden físico y psicológico, que pueden desenmascararse y curarse completamente con el enfoque adecuado. Apoyado por un equipo de profesionales de la salud, que incluyó, entre otros, a un médico general, un médico de medicina tradicional china, un psicólogo, un hipnoterapeuta, un entrenador físico y un consejero espiritual, Chris Prentiss desarrolló el Programa de 3 Pasos contenido en estas páginas, para que el lector se rehabilite o ayude a un ser querido a hacerlo.







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My Name Is Sonny Bliss: A Novel About Alcoholism and Recovery Review

Initially using writing as a therapeutic tool, Tom W. lives in Virginia with his wife and two grandchildren. As his writing progressed, he wrote for publication and has now completed his debut novel, "My Name Is Sonny Bliss". Tom has a bachelor's degree in social work and an associate's degree in alcoholism counseling.







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Addict In The Family: Stories of Loss, Hope, and Recovery. Review

This book is analagous to a well-stocked pantry filled with provisions as well as the implements needed to put these resources to good use. The essence of the author's message appears to be based on the 12-Step prototype. If "Addict in the Family" contains any weakness at all, it might be the author's tendency to do it all by "The Book," including peppering the account with various references to 12-step doctrines, adages and buzzwords. A reader who is already familiar with the steps might find this format to be slightly repetitious and fairly predictable.

Through the author's story of her daughter's addiction as well as accounts given to her by other parents and loved ones of addicts, we are able to contemplate, if not feel, the pernicious grip that addiction has on everyone in the addict's circle. What follows are examples of every- day situations family members face as a result of their loved ones' addictions. We are given examples of strategies and responses that are helpful in managing or deflecting the often irrational behavior of the addict.

There is a dash of irony in the lessons that gently simmer throughout the book. While the addicted family member tends to exhibit certain obsessions surrounding his substances of choice, the author deftly conjures up a mirror image of the addict's loved one. In this dual depiction it becomes clear that the addict's family member often becomes susceptible to some of the same traits exhibited by the addict: we are reminded by the writer, ever so gently, that there are, perhaps, more similarities than differences between our addicts and ourselves. The tiny germs of irony come spilling out like so many tears: Just as our addict feels a sense of unremitting shame, so do we. Our addict is angry, and so are we. The addicted ones are depressed, sad and despondent, and we are, too.

Addicts tend to fall into the habit of concealing their ignoble behavior beneath a convincing enough topping of lies, subterfuge and denial. It appears that we family members, in the beginning, at least, are willing - even eager - to believe the fantastic multi-layered cake of deception towering in front of us. The facade that all is well is an appealing one, especially as one becomes initiated to the instability of living with a person who is also an addict. It is in this effort to achieve a measure of sanity that the addicted person's loved one often crumbles from the heat and the turbulence.

As we continue to glean sustenance from the author's kernels of wisdom, it becomes all too apparent that we, along with our addicted loved ones, are being poisoned by the unsavory byproducts of addiction.

This book offers suggestions to the family and loved ones of addicts, and these methods require us to exchange our toxic coating of negativity and denial for one that nourishes us - physically, mentally, spiritually and economically - without distorting our reality. The author recalls a time when her daughter, upon being asked of her whereabouts that evening, proceeds to concoct one of her characteristically tall tales. Although the mother knew her daughter was lying, she refrained from voicing those suspicions. Instead, she allowed her daughter to finish, while she remained impassive and unprovoked, thereby empowering herself and disarming her daughter in the process.

Setting rules and limits for the addict is another mechanism suggested in the book as a way to safeguard our overall wellbeing. Asking the addict to move out should his behavior become too disruptive or disturbing - and carrying out the order - is one more example of disengaging from our addicted love ones. There are many other inspiring stories included in the book along with helpful advice, hope and encouragement from those who have been where we, the families of an addict, are now.

At the end of the book, there are pages with listings of substance abuse facilities, mental health treatment centers, dual diagnosis rehabs, detox centers, and services for the families of the chemically addicted. It is a very comprehensive list for those who are looking for help in dealing with an addiction, whether it be a loved one's or their own.


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A Gentleman Drunk Review

Jeffrey Taylor was able to bring focus to not only his story but to the millions of untold stories, heroes, survivors and victims of alcoholism and its depth of destruction that comes to families in waves. While not an alcoholic myself, I have survived the tumultous life of parents, grandparents, siblings and friends who struggle daily to keep themselves sober...One Day At A Time is truly a motto they live by...often one hour or moment at a time...
Being an adult survivor of this dreaded and dark disease, I can tell you that Jeffrey brought an amazing clarity to so many of the issues relating to loss, destruction, growth, pain and overcoming alcoholic challenges.
Read this book and gain a little understanding about the disease, the alcoholic person and the families who can and will survive and live on to be whole again...Accept the apology of a drunk and encourage them to live sober and you will be stronger too!!
Thanks Jeffrey for the courage to tell your story and move on to an amazing quality of life for you and your family today!! CHEERS!!!

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Alcoholism: The Family Guide (Need 2 Know) Review

True alcoholism is one of the most destructive conditions possible for a family, causing disruption, sadness, violence and even financial ruin. With the right determination and support, there are ways to beat it. Packed with practical advice and the latest information, this book finds solutions to alcoholism, binge drinking and other forms of alcohol abuse. Its easy-to-read style takes you step by step through diagnosing the problem; understanding its physical effects; breaking behavioural patterns and getting treatment. Support for children with alcoholic parents and guidance for those living with an alcoholic is also included. Whether it's you, or a friend or colleague with the problem or someone you love or live with, this book gives you all the information you need to stop the damage and chaos caused by problem drinking. There is a way to combat the problem and this book will surely help.







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Anger, Alcoholism, and Addiction: Treating Individuals, Couples, and Families Review

I love this book because anger is one of the most frequent unresolved issues in early recovery that lead people to relapse. This book explain the meaning of anger and it relationship with addiction and recovery and teach us how to deal with a part of our inner self in a constructive way.

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Dying for a Drink: What You and Your Family Should Know About Alcoholism Review

i learned so many things. each chapter was so helpful. everyone dealing with this situation is addressed. i am sending copies to my parents and also my children. thank you for your expertise, dr. spickard.

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The Spirituality of Sobriety: Finding the Spiritual Awakening in Recovery from Alcoholism Review

I was moved to read "The Spirituality of Sobriety" after meeting the author at a yoga teachers' conference. His sense of compassion and devotion to his spiritual path were inspirational.

I have no personal experience with addiction or 12-Step programs, yet I found the book to be an enlightening and encouraging discourse on the pursuit of spirituality and a higher power in everyday life. The theme is applicable to anyone who is seeking spiritual growth and wishes to make a deeper connection to his or her own life. There is much to be learned from AA's Twelve Steps whether one is in recovery or not!

Gregg D. shares with the reader his own personal path through, and clear knowledge of, various traditions on his way to spiritual awakening. He also draws from well-established psychotherapeutic tools and academic writings to illustrate how self-examination and self-acceptance are crucial steps along that road. And at various points throughout the book, quoting beautiful poetry and prayers, he gives gifts of gentle guidance from his own awakened heart.


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Practical Approaches to Alcoholism Psychotherapy Review

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Goodbye, Mr. Wonderful: Alcoholism, Addiction And Early Recovery Review

This book describes all aspects of a sensitive and intelligent man's struggle against alcoholism. Despite all the relapses in the past and possibly the future, the only sensible thing to do is to keep searching for a way to release the self of this constant preoccupation. This man is always questioning and evaluating, choosing his words carefully and always aware of the consequences his addiction has on the people around him and of course on his own life.
Very useful account for people struggling with addiction and everyone interested in them, out of professional or personal interest.

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Terry: My Daughter's Life-and-Death Struggle with Alcoholism Review

This time when I saw this paperback book in one of my favorite bookstores I decided I would buy it. I have a friend that said she had a hard time putting it down. I would say that I would rather put it down--and not pick it up again. I had a hard time plodding through this memoir. I did find the last part of the book where notations are made of the last few weeks of her life are the most interesting part of the book..the most moving and memorable parts. Otherwise this book was a big waste of my time. :(

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Heavy Drinking: The Myth of Alcoholism as a Disease Review

I copied this verbatim from Orange Papers. Org.

I used to be a 12 step aholic.

What, Lois? Me go get a job? Oh dear, I can feel an anxiety attack coming on. I think I'm about to relapse...

Bill would not let even Lois, who was dying to do so, write the chapter titled "To Wives." After all, she was the wife who had endured Bill's drunken years and the houseful of alcoholics he was trying to wrestle into sobriety. "I have never known why he didn't want me to write about the wives, and it hurt me at first," she said.
Getting Better Inside Alcoholics Anonymous, Nan Robertson, pages 70-71.

Bill had a grandiose sense of self-importance, and exaggerated his achievements and talents, and expected to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements, like his belief that he was essential to other alcoholics' recovery, and his wildly exaggerated claims of success in drying out alcoholics, and his years-long nationwide tours, grandstanding and promoting his own legend.

Bill was preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love, like the Oxford Groups' "Absolute Purity, Absolute Honesty, Absolute Love, and Absolute Unselfishness". Bill also liked to imagine that he was launching a movement that would sweep the entire world and save all of the alcoholics. Bill even claimed that A.A. was "the miracle of the century", and "probably one of the greatest medical and spiritual developments of all time."

Bill believed that he was "special" and unique -- the only man in the world with the answer to alcoholism (or, before that, the first American to make a working boomerang, or the only man on campus to truly understand calculus). Bill thought that he understood God, alcoholics, and alcoholism better than anybody else in the whole world.

Bill required excessive admiration.

Bill certainly had a sense of entitlement, and felt that he deserved the best of everything, like all of fame, credit, and prestige, all of the money, and all of the women, and even a house in the country and a Cadillac car supplied by the A.A. organization. Bill also felt entitled to dictate the terms of other people's recovery from alcoholism, and even to dictate their religious beliefs.

Bill Wilson was outrageously, heartlessly exploitative. He used everybody, and he discarded and drove away people when they refused to kowtow to him.

Bill Wilson lacked empathy -- he didn't even think about the welfare or recovery of the women alcoholics whom he was thirteenth-stepping, and he disregarded the recovery of the unbelievers whom he drove away from A.A.. And Bill even disregarded the feelings of his own wife Lois while she supported him for years.

Envy of other people seems to be the only characteristic of narcissism that Bill Wilson did not overtly display, but I think that he was envious. Bill spent his whole life trying to prove that he was just as good as other people. He must have felt envious of those other people who were born with a higher status than him, and who were never cursed with alcoholism, whose honor and morality was never questioned.

Bill certainly showed arrogant, haughty behaviors and attitudes.

Bill strongly displayed "Vulnerability in self-esteem". He couldn't stand criticism. He lashed out in defiant counter-attack whenever he was criticized, as shown in the cases of his wife, his calculus professor, his business partner Henry Parkhurst, and Ed the atheist who dared to challenge Bill's bombastic religiosity. When Bill was criticized, he often nursed a bitter resentment over it for years, until he could get his revenge, or he went into a fit of deep depression that often lasted years.

Bill's interpersonal relations were very impaired due to "problems derived from entitlement, the need for admiration, and the relative disregard for the sensitivities of others". Bill fought with everybody from his wife to his best friend and partner Henry "Hank" Parkhurst to the A.A. members who wouldn't believe in God as Bill dictated. Loud screaming matches were routine behavior for Bill Wilson.

And Bill certainly suffered from "Major Depressive Disorders":
A one-year-long depression in his childhood when his parents divorced and his mother left Bill and his sister with his grandparents.
A three-year-long depression when his high-school girlfriend died.
Various sporadic depressions throughout his drinking career.
Then, while sober, an eleven-year-long deep, crippling, clinical depression from 1944 to 1955, from indeterminate causes.
And Dr. Alexander Lowen added one more characteristic of narcissism:


The tendency to lie, without compunction, is typical of narcissists.
Narcissism, Denial of the True Self, Alexander Lowen, M.D., page 54.
That fits Bill Wilson too.


A.A. began as a branch of another cult religion called "The Oxford Group", which was the creation of an evil fascist renegade Lutheran minister named Dr. Frank Nathan Daniel Buchman, who actually admired Adolf Hitler and praised the Gestapo leader Heinrich Himmler as a "wonderful lad".

The cofounders of Alcoholics Anonymous, William Griffith Wilson and Dr. Robert Holbrook Smith, were both enthusiastic true-believer members of the Oxford Group cult, and they simply adapted Buchmanism to their own ends when they created Alcoholics Anonymous. For all practical purposes, Alcoholics Anonymous is simply Frank Buchman's cult religion dressed up in a different suit of clothes.

The A.A. religion pushes a concept of God that is worse than medieval.
According to A.A., God is a fascist dictator, an authoritarian, vindictive Old-Testament-style patriarchal God Who will kill you with a painful slow death by alcoholism if you don't
believe in Him, and
constantly confess your sins to Him, and
grovel before Him, and
Seek and Do His Will every day.
According to Bill Wilson, God uses "the lash of alcoholism" to force people into the A.A. religion, where they will find endless "Serenity and Gratitude" while working as slaves of God.

The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are not "spiritual principles", they are cult practices that Bill Wilson got from Dr. Frank Buchman's Oxford Groups. The Twelve Steps are a recipe for building a cult religion, not a formula for quitting drinking:
The Twelve Steps do not even tell you to quit drinking, or to help anyone else to quit drinking, either.
The Twelve Steps don't even mention sobriety, recovery, or health, but they do mention surrender to the cult, and going recruiting for the cult, and guilt-inducing confession sessions.
The 12 Steps also mention God, directly or indirectly, in 6 of the 12 steps. The Ten Commandments of Judeo-Christian religions mention God fewer times than that -- only 4 or 5 of the 10 commandments refer to God, directly or indirectly1 -- but the A.A. true believers still insist that A.A. is not a religion.
Seven of the 12 steps, Steps Four through Ten, are designed to induce guilt in members by having them make long lists of every sin they ever committed, and every fault, moral shortcoming, and defect of character they have, and then they have to confess it all to another member and God. Then they make another list of everybody they ever hurt or offended, and confess that, and try to make amends. And then they have to repeat the whole process again, and again, for the rest of their lives.
The Twelve Steps tell people to surrender their wills and their lives to "God" or "Higher Power" or the A.A. group, and to pray to "God" or "Higher Power" or the A.A. group, and then the Twelve Steps tell people how to pray and what to pray for, but the A.A. true believers still insist that A.A. is not a religion.

Twelve-Step enthusiasts declare that the Twelve Steps, just like good old-fashioned snake oil, will cure anybody of anything. They claim that the Twelve Steps are equally applicable to everybody from drug addicts to gamblers, from compulsive shoppers to emotional wrecks to rape victims, from divorcees to diabetics, from schizophrenics to fat people. The 12 steps really do have just as much to do with being a rape victim as they have to do with being an alcoholic -- absolutely nothing.

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The Wellness-Recovery Connection: Charting Your Pathway to Optimal Health While Recovering from Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Review

This book has helped me tremendously! It has taught me things I was not aware of and also reminded me of things I had forgotten. I am very surprised it has helped me so much because I have been sober for 31 years. I found myself relaxing, as I read this book, simply by practicing the relaxing techniques I was reading about. I'll make these techniques a part of my daily life. I would recommend this book for anyone who is serious about their recovery.

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7 Weeks to Safe Social Drinking: How to Effectively Moderate Your Alcohol Intake Review

This is the best book I've read about moderate drinking and how to get there.

Most of the time I don't have a problem with alcohol but sometimes it takes
over and I drink too much. I have found the suggestions in this book invaluable,
especially pre-planning my drinking behavior with the tips in the program,
eating while I'm drinking and watching the clock to slow down my drinking.
That's just for starters. Cornett gives lots of tips and also works on your
attitude about alcohol and its importance in your life.

I think this book could change the world and have given it to friends who
drink too much.

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Voices of Alcoholism: The Healing Companion: Stories for Courage, Comfort and Strength (Voices Of series) Review

In this collection of inspirational stories from all walks of life, the silence shrouding the disease of alcoholism is broken. Filled with unforgettable and informative true accounts by the victims of alcoholism, their families, and friends, each tale is written with remarkable candor about how this disease affects everyone—and not just the alcoholic—at every level of society, from the first drink through the challenges of achieving a lasting recovery. With a comprehensive resources section for those seeking current information on treatment and recovery, this is a heartfelt, emotional, and informative volume that affirms the strength of the human spirit.

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Alcoholism (The Facts) Review

I found this book disturbing. The author defines alcoholism most narrowly: basically one must be completely out of control and not functioning on any level to qualify. This book will provide refuge for the functioning alcoholic who is looking for a source to support his denial. The author takes "problem drinking" very lightly, suggesting that it can and does cure itself at the drinker's will. Much of this book contradicts everything I have read or heard from all other sources (and certainly my own experience with a "problem drinker.") The author also seems somewhat hostile to AA, a bias he should have disclosed in the preface. It is hard to believe that this book represents "the facts," any more than it represents the author's perspective. Readers should not assume that the author's MD makes him anything more than a human with an opinion; and in this case, one that is not broadly accepted.

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No More Letting Go: The Spirituality of Taking Action Against Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Review

This book was very educational. For a person who operates on understanding, this book gave me a wealth of information on the way substance abusers think. If you can understand how they operate, then you can plan your actions based on that information.
I have purchased several copies and passed them along to family members. This book helps with understanding why substance abusers do what they do. It also helped in setting realistic expectations and understanding why you may or may not have the effect you might want to have on your situation. This book is about not letting the substance abuser take you down with them. It's about understanding their illness and providing love, hope and an opportunity for recovery.


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Children of Alcoholism: A Survivor's Manual Review

After dealing superficially with my own depression, I finally read this book and started confronting some of the issues in my life that were rooted in my upbringing with an alcoholic parent. This was a break-through point in working toward my own healing. Very readable. Not a lot of psychobabble.

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Alcoholism: The Cause & The Cure Review

This book is one of the best I have read for really getting to the bottom of addiction especially alcohol. The book is not an easy read and contains alot of information but if you think about the millions of lives lost from and the amount of money spent on the problems associated with alcoholism you appreciate why the author takes the time to educate those of us who are looking to live fulfilled lives that we were meant to live and that deep down we want to.
It is a book that provides information to assist the whole person, spiritually, mentally and physically to become in tune with the healer within so that they can get better. A concept I know most of us who are used to conventional medicine and healthcare believe to be a myth because we are used to being dissapointed and settling for just getting by. I recommend this book and the program highly to anyone who is seriously interested in getting better. It took me almost a year to follow through and I can honestly say it has saved my life.

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Eating for Recovery: The Essential Nutrition Plan to Reverse the Physical Damage of Alcoholism Review

This is a well written, informative and engaging book. While reading it, one has a growing sense of relief; the quiet feeling that this book will help many people change their lives in positive ways. Ms. Siple, a registered dietitian, provides a science-based, very understandable overview of the components of the chemistry of eating. She describes what the body needs, what chemicals and vitamins are depleted as a result of addiction, and simple, concrete ways to begin and maintain the healing process. Molly Siple writes in a very readable style that supports taking action. I've tried some of her recipes and find them them to be easy and delicious! Thank you, Ms. Siple for sharing your wisdom and nutritional knowledge!

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Cool Water: Alcoholism, Mindfulness, and Ordinary Recovery Review

I originally heard about this book while listening to the radio in my car. It was recommended by Chicago radio personality Steve Dahl who was discussing his own recovery from alcohol. I have read this book 3 times, and each time it has been more helpful than the last. Yes, there is a Zen slant, but that should not keep anyone from reading this book and finding it helpful. If you really want to stop drinking you will embrace help from wherever it comes. Read this book with an open mind and you will be pleasantly surprised where it takes you. I have not had a drink of alcohol for 7 years, and owe much of the success for changing my life to this book.

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Treating Alcoholism (Jossey-Bass Library of Current Clinical Technique) Review

An invaluable model for making informed treatment decisions

A Volume in the Jossey-Bass Library of Current Clinical Technique

Highly recommAnded. . .for clinicians who want to understand and treat the alcoholic in a pragmatic and step-wise fashion.
--NARPPS Journal

In this comprehensive book, editor Stephanie Brown presents a model of alcoholism treatment to help you guide alcoholics and their families on the path to long-term recovery. Experts in the field give you the skills to address the myriad problems associated with alcoholism by providing up-to-date information and illustrative case examples. This book, filled with a wealth of information, will help you set specific therapeutic techniques for working with alcoholics and the families of alcoholics in a clinical setting.

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Handbook of Alcoholism Treatment Approaches (3rd Edition) Review

Well researched and well written. If you work in the field of addiction treatment you have an ethical obligation to read this book. If you are contemplating seeking treatment, you should know what you are getting. "Caveat Emptor, let the buyer beware" should be the warning posted at the entrance of most addiction treatment centers in the US. This book offers the most up to date research which strongly suggests that traditional treatment in the US maybe worse or no better than no treatment at all. It has chapters outlining effective alternatives such as Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Community Reinforcement Approach, and Social Skills Training. Frankly if you are an addictions professional in the US and haven't read this book or understand this material, you should read it or go get a job selling used cars.

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Healing the Addicted Brain: The Revolutionary, Science-Based Alcoholism and Addiction Recovery Program Review

Thank you for this great book! Dr Urschel helped me to further understand the disease of addiction and to recognize that while addiction cannot be "cured" it can be "controlled" just as many other chronic diseases might be controlled. I appreciate that he tackles the issue from a multi pronged approach, medicine, therapy and supportive 12 Step Program. The exercises and self tests are useful for the addict and for those who love the addict. I most highly recommend this book for anyone dealing with addiction in any way. The information is priceless.

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Beyond the Influence: Understanding and Defeating Alcoholism Review

The authors here perpetuate the confusion that has existed all along about alcoholism, even while claiming science on their side.

Only a born alcoholic can be an alcoholic, is the strong claim on page 5.

But they go on to say that behavioral tests are still the most reliable way to predict alcoholism (p. 112). The problem is that the tests that they administer will create a "positive" for almost anyone who drinks regularly. "Problem drinkers" will certainly score high on these behavioral tests. But the authors are at pains to say that many, if not a majority, of "problem drinkers" are NOT alcoholics (p. 105). In my view, "problem drinkers," with their outrageous misbehaviors, are more likely to be thought of as alcoholics than true born alcoholics who are operating in the "high-function" area between early- and middle-stage alcoholism. Although many "problem drinkers" are alcoholics, not all alcoholics present themselves as "problem drinkers." The tests would mistakenly nail the one group, and also mistakenly miss the other. Are you confused? If you're not, then you haven't been paying attention.

For me, the clarity cited in my review title comes from reading Ketcham's earlier book, "Under the Influence." It was a huge light bulb that came on in reading the descriptions of acetaldehyde in our bodies. In Milam and Ketcham's description, the distinction between the born alcoholic and the non-alcoholic centered on how early (after the first drink) acetaldehyde appeared in the bloodstream, and how long it persisted there. Born alcoholics generated more acetaldehyde in their systems more quickly, and they evacuated it more slowly. If the persistent presence of acetaldehyde in the system (with its attendant metabolic transformations) is the primary thing that leads to alcohol addiction, then that leads to an inescapable conclusion... eventually, anyone that drinks long enough and hard enough will exceed his or her ability to efficiently evacuate acetaldehyde from their system... eventually, if you drink long enough and hard enough, acetaldehyde will be present in your system, and you'll subject yourself to its addiction-causing effects... eventually, you'll become an alcoholic.

This would explain delayed-onset alcoholism. A truly "born" alcoholic could become irretrievably lost after a few short years of problem drinking. But a "problem drinker" who is not born to alcoholism might drink heavily for 20 years, give up without difficulty for a whole year (impossible if you're middle-stage or later), return to 20 years of hard drinking and finally, in retirement, be diagnosed as a late-stage alcoholic. I've seen any number of cases of this long-onset alcoholism, and it's always been puzzling, but the acetaldehyde model explains it quite well.

The inescapable conclusion of reading between the lines of "Under the Influence" was that ANYONE CAN BECOME AN ALCOHOLIC.

That conclusion is supported by the behavioral tests in "Beyond the Influence," but we're still left with the insistent claim that many "problem drinkers" will not become alcoholic, even if they continue heavy drinking throughout their adult lives, and that the distinction is black and white.

So which is it? The only reason I'm not confused is because I believe what I've read in "Under the Influence," and I believe that ANYONE CAN BECOME AN ALCOHOLIC. It may take 40 years for the full symptoms to appear, but if you abuse for long enough they WILL appear, and you WILL be an alcoholic... all you have to do is the acetaldehyde math. It's also clear that if you stay below your acetaldehyde evacuation threshold, you can stay out of trouble, but that the acetaldehyde evacuation threshold isn't that high for most of us (the problem is that we don't have reliable ways of determining our acetaldehyde evacuation threshold). That's what I believe. It's as clear as a bell, which is more than can be said for "Beyond the Influence."

"Beyond the Influence" almost seems like it pre-dates "Under the Influence." It features less science and more behavior. "Beyond the Influence" should have benefited from almost 20 years of hindsight and improved technology. Instead, the lines are fuzzier, not clearer.

Oh, and one last thing. Ketchams's been right all along about one thing. However you got there, if you're an alcoholic, once you're there, it's definitely physiological.

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Under the Influence: A Guide to the Myths and Realities of Alcoholism Review

I train counselors and counsel families of alcoholics, and when a family member is having a very difficult time (even though she is trying hard) to understand that this is a disease----I refer her to this book. This helps her to see so well, that his rage is because alcohol excites the rage-centers of the brain. And because she now understands this, she knows, then, that the crazymaking coming out his mouth is the disease talking. Does not mean that she is not in pain from his behavior---but this book does help to take the edge off it. And this book helps her to spot the alcoholism in her children, too, because she now knows how very genetic this disease is.
I see that one of the inside-cover endorsements for this book is by Toby Rice Drews---the author of the "Getting Them Sober, you CAN help" book. Her book is my 'sister book' to Milam's book! Together, these two books are lifesavers in my home. My counseling clients tell me that when they read "Getting Them Sober", their family lives change for the better within three days! I feel that these two books are 'sister' books because Milam (in "Under the Influence") explains the entire physiological body/brain effects from alcoholism----and Drews (in "Getting Them Sober, you CAN help") explains in detail, exactly how to make changes in one's relationship with the alcoholic (whether or not you live with him)------ so that the alcoholic has an 80% better chance to get sober. (The cover-endorsements for the book are by 'dear Abby', Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, and Melody Beattie, author of 'Codependent No More', who says that "Getting Them Sober is the BEST book for the family of the still-drinking alcoholic".) Getting Them Sober: You Can Help! (Getting Them Sober)

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Seven Weeks to Sobriety: The Proven Program to Fight Alcoholism through Nutrition Review

This book has been a life saver for my son who is an alcoholic. He has been in rehab twice but each time he started drinking again. He was drinking approximately 40 beers a day when I realized he was in such bad shape. He tried 30 days in rehab and AA. Neither seemed to work as much as following the program outlined in this book. We are on our third week of the seven weeks to Sobriety. He takes his vitamins and minerals faithfully. He even told his counselor and other alcoholics about the program. He said the steps outlined in this book have actually helped with his alcohol cravings more than anything else he has tried. The doctor told him last year if he did not quit drinking so much that he would be dead by the time he reached his thirties. He is 28 years old. I finally feel like for the first time in years that we have made some progress. In fact, he's moving back home and I will continue to keep him on the program. I thank God everyday for allowing me to find something that would finally help him. I died a little each day myself watching him suffer.

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