Smashed by Koren Zailckas (2006, Paperback, Reprint)

Koren Zailckas' memoir is definitely an interesting read. It's very well-written, and I stopped more than once to admire a few descriptive sentences or paragraphs. Unlike some of the other reveiwers, I do not believe she "denies" her "alcoholism" at all. Horribly abusing alcohol is not necessarily proof of alcoholism. One can be addicted physically and psychologically and still not be an "alcoholic". And, even when one is no longer physically addicted, but still may be psychologically addicted, it doesn't mean they are an "alcoholic". It means they have a compulsion they need to learn how to control. It doesn't necessarily always follow that everyone needs to admit powerlessness and be in endless recovery and has a disease. Although the disease model is accepted by the AMA and other organizations, there is more evidence and proof that it is, in fact, not a disease, but a compulsion or choice that can be conquered. (Please see the work of Stanton Peele PhD, Albert Ellis PhD, James DeSena PhD, Jeffrey Schaler PhD, etc. for more info) In addition, Harvard University did a study that cited that 80% of all addicts quit on their own without the assistance of "recovery programs", so there is no reason to doubt her ability to quit drinking and/or even drink moderately in the future (as opposed to the 95% failure rate of AA).

This said, I am not sure I'd really recommend this book, though I'd definitely recommend A Million Little Pieces (James Frey) or Dry (Augusten Burroughs). And, I can't even tell you why this is! I found Zailckas almost tiresome by the end of the book. I found the continuing mistakes she made absolutely annoying. Yes, I finished the book, but by the time I was through with it, I was so happy I wouldn't have to read her anymore.

Still, I found much of her story mostly interesting-- enough to keep reading. I did empathize with her as she found herself in humiliating and dangerous situations after a night of drinking and, at times, blacking out. And, although I stand by my earlier comments regarding abusing alcohol and being an "alcoholic", I wonder what the author believes would actually define an alcoholic, if not her behavior, since she does seem to accept the disease model of alcoholism and does seem to believe that some people do suffer with this disease-- just not her.

I am a bit ambivalent about recommending this book. It's worth reading or skimming. It's something I'd pick up from the library and only purchase for a high school- or college-age girl who you believe might have an interest in the subject.

Very relatable and well written. I love how she doesn't hold back and really speaks about the issues presented to teens today. This is a great book!

Until I read this book I didn't know there was a difference between alcoholism and alcohol addiction. I totally believe there is. I'm really surprised the author, Koren lived to tell her story.

SELLER IS VERY RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT. I RECEIVED MY BOOK THE WEEK AFTER I ORDERED IT, WHICH WITH MEDIA MAIL IS GREAT. I WISH THE SELLER HAD A DISCOUNT FOR MULTIPLE BOOKS PURCHASED AT THE SAME TIME.

This is a great book about teenage drinking. I think that every parent who has a teenage child should read this book, so the can identify signs of alcoholism in their children. It should be a book that children should read in school and maybe they will refuse to drink.

I liked that it is interesting and really represents how many college students act today. I bought this book because i thought it would be a good read, and it was very cheap on ebay!