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Publisher:
Regan Books / HarperCollins |
Release
Date: August 14, 2003 |
ISBN:
0060096543 |
Awards:
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Format
Reviewed: Hardcover |
Buy
it at Amazon |
Read
an Excerpt |
Genre:
Non-fiction / Self Help / |
Reviewed:
2004 |
Reviewer:
Lynda E. Lukow |
Reviewer
Notes: some profanity |
Copyright
MyShelf.com |
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Cracked
Putting
Broken Lives Together Again
By Dr. Drew Pinsky
with Todd Gold
Those
who have never suffered from an addiction often wonder if those
who have aren't lacking in willpower or sense. In Cracked: Putting
Broken Lives Together Again, Dr. Pinsky debunks the myths surrounding
chemical dependence. He explains the biology of the disease and
the precipitating events in layman's terms. Through the eyes of
former patients, he tells the physical pain of withdrawal and the
complex journey to sobriety of those who "get it."
However, the
uniqueness of this book lies in Dr. Pinksy's revelations of his
own vulnerabilities. He readily admits his codependent tendencies
often leave him struggling to distance himself from his patients.
Addicts’ repeated inabilities to "get it" leave
him frustrated and doubtful of his effectiveness. Yet he perseveres,
and in the end he comes to terms with most of his limitations.
Readers may
recognize the author as the co-host of radio's "Loveline."
Dr. Drew brings his same straightforward manner to the written word
and pulls no punches in this fast paced, dynamic work. Smooth transitions
among his personal life, his lectures, his radio broadcasts and
his work as medical director at Las Encinas Hospital allow readers
to easily observe Dr. Pinsky's varied experiences. His comments
on culture's effect on America's society will make readers sit up
and take notice. Hopefully, his frank portrayals of addiction will
make those susceptible to the disease's grip get help before time
runs out.
Cracked: Putting
Broken Lives Together Again should become mandatory reading
in high school and/or college. Medical professionals and adults
who interact with children would benefit greatly, too. Former addicts
may find the strength to continue on the path of sobriety, and the
presently dependent might just get the information they need to
confront their disease. Come to think of it, no one could read this
book and not come away a little wiser. Moving and insightful!
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