Emily S. (kyrie1) reviewed on 2/26/2007 + 10 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 7

Ok, I'll be honest. On one hand, James Frey has an interesting writing style, and he probably COULD write a good story. The problem is that when I read it, I couldn't believe that ANYONE ever bought any part of the story. Anyone who has any experience with any kind of rehab or rehab facility will know instantly that Frey's work is purely fiction. I have been a counselor, and no counselor, particulary one at "the famous rehab facility in Minnesota (I'm thinking Hazelden)" with the highest success rate of any facility, would bend to a patient's wishes and attitude the way Frey's did. I mean, geez, they helped him break one of the most important rules of the facility? I don't think so. He said he could do it without the twelve steps, and they agreed? That just doesn't happen. I also had a lot of trouble accepting his accounts of his medical trials - even alcoholics and addicts are allowed novacaine, for heaven's sake. They are not allowed ADDICTIVE drugs. In the end, I disliked not only the book, but also the author.

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