5.0 out of 5 stars The Addicts "Bag of Tricks" EXPOSED! and Simple Solutions to Deal With Them., February 16, 2013

By Jeffrey Smith, Co-Founder, The Attitude Of Gratitude (Florida)

This review is from: Grace Lost and Found: From Addictions and Compulsions to Satisfaction and Serenity (Paperback)

I really enjoyed reading this book. I'm in a 12 step program, but I think it's good for others around them too. Dealing with someone who's in their addiction can make anyone around them crazy. Mary Cook's simple explanations of how and why addicts do what they do and how to avoid them is a lifesaver. In the first chapter about addictions, compulsions and recovery, her explanations go beyond where the 12 steps leave off, sharing her experience in dealing with addicts for over 20 years as an addiction specialist and a counselor. The second chapter takes it further again with how to overcome stress, fear and pain. I found it to be completely in harmony with my 12 step program and spirituality. Emotional sobriety is an area many in 12 step programs need help and in chapter 3 on relationships with self, others and a higher power, again she speaks from experience and offers simple tools to add to my spiritual toolkit. The last chapter I read was on the process of growth and transformation gave even more good ideas to maintain and grow spiritually. I've been around 12 step programs a long time and thought I had heard every idea, tools or slogan one could hear, but Mary Cook's book was exceptional with tons of things I didn't know about recovery and living and happy life.

If you are in recovery get this book. If someone you love is in recovery and you need help to figure them out, this book is your bible.