There are four sections, each with its own set of questions (or challenges!) and responses. Sample topics: “My Doctor Is No Help”, “Why Is Crack So Hard to Kick?” “Drinking Makes Me Feel Normal”, “Dry Drunks and Stinking Thinking”, “Too Gay for AA?” and “Disease or Character Defect?”, as well as ones that address trigger issues like post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and incest, and a number that deal with the process of, and resistance to, recovery: “AA Is Boring”, “The ‘Higher Power’ Business Puts Me Off”, and “The Drunk’s Progress: A New Identity.”

The only fiction in this book are the names changed to protect identities; science is on almost every page and ranges from biochemistry to genetics, statistics, anthropology and psychology.

There is still a radio call-in show, called Recovery Coast to Coast, now hosted by Neil Scott. At the time of writing, Bill Maneville is scheduled as a guest. (Email:recoverycoasttocoast@comcast.net) I also test-called the 800 678 2332 number for The Caron Foundation listed in Question #88, and yes, it is a working number, and yes, a human being answers and is prepared to help. It’s for real. ~~ Chris R. Paige