The books below are reliable, easy to read and informative classics especially suited to the needs of those just beginning to learn about alcoholism or other addictions.* 

Alcoholism

Addictive Thinking : Understanding Self-Deception   
Abraham J. Twerski, M.D.

"A key to achieving a lasting recovery is understanding the thought processes and patterns of addiction. Here is a revised edition of a classic that deals with the complicated and contradictory thinking patterns of addiction, featuring expanded information on depression and affective disorders."

The Betty Ford Center Book of Answers: Hope and Help for Those Struggling With Substance Abuse and For Those Who Love Them  
James West, M.D., Betty Ford

"The professionals at the Betty Ford Center--one of the world's leading and most trusted sources of treatment for addiction--hove provided thousands with the strength, support, and expertise that substance abusers need to get well. Now, the former medical director of the Betty Ford Center shares that expertise in this remarkably honest and complete book, which answers vital questions that surround this difficult subject:

• "My son seems to be following in his alcoholic father's footsteps. How can I help him?"
• "My wife's the alcoholic, why do I need treatment?"
• "Can the brain recover from cocaine abuse?"
• "Even a double dose of my prescription tranquilizers doesn't seem to help. Am I addicted?"
• "If I get sober, what are my chances of staying sober?"
• "l am uncomfortable with the spiritual aspect of AA. Is there on alternative?"
• "Is it true that people who are forced into treatment get nothing out of it?"

"Whether you are ten years sober, a current or potential substance abuser, or you care about someone who is, this volume will help you better understand--and fight--the destructive powers of addiction."

The Courage to Change : Hope and Help for Alcoholics and Their Families  
Dennis Wholey

The former host of PBS-TV's Late Night America presents the success stories of recovering alcoholic celebrities, including Elmore Leonard, Jerry Falwell, Pete Townshend, and Grace Slick. 

Getting Them Sober : You Can Help!  
Toby Rice Drews

"Toby Rice Drews draws upon long experience as a therapist to explore the day-by-day practicalities of getting loved ones sober. In the process she maintains professionalism without sacrificing warmth or human sympathy. Forty-one chapters are filled with practical suggestions for coping including being gentle with yourself; don't pour out the booze; use tough love. This book is a blessing for anyone who has to live with an alcoholic."

I'll Quit Tomorrow : A Practical Guide to Alcoholism Treatment  
Vernon E. Johnson

"This bestselling recovery classic has helped untold thousands of alcoholics onto the road to recovery. Written by the founder of the Johnson Institute in Minneapolis, one of the country's most successful training programs for treatment providers, I'll Quit Tomorrow present the concepts and methods that have brought new hope to alcoholics and their families, friends, and employers. Abstinence is not the only objective of Johnson's breakthrough methods -- his therapy aims at restoring the ego strength of the victim to assure permanent recovery. Johnson outlines a dynamic plan of intervention and treatment that will block the progress of alcoholism and lead to a richer, more productive life."

Intervention : How to Help Someone Who Doesn't Want Help  
Vernon E. Johnson

Practical information on intervention by the originator of the technique.

The Selfish Brain : Learning from Addiction
Robert L. Dupont, M.D.

Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. Text on dealing with drug addiction. For addicts, their families, and therapists. Discusses confronting the disease, exploring its biological roots, and preventing behavioral reinforcement from well-meaning loved ones.

Under the Influence : A Guide to the Myths and Realities of Alcoholism  
James Milam, Katherine Ketcham

From the Publisher

• How to tell if someone you know is an alcoholic.
• The progressive stages of alcoholism.
• How to get an alcoholic into treatment -- and how to choose a treatment program.
• Why frequently prescribed drugs can be dangerous -- even fatal -- for alcoholics.
• How to ensure a lasting recovery.

"Vital, simple, world-changing information." -- Co-Evolution Quarterly

"Under The Influence will advance by light years the understanding of alcoholism and the recovery process." -- Mel Schulstad, Cofounder, National Association of Alcoholism Counselors

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