Excellent Insight into Who I am and Why
(37 of 38 Found this Helpful)
August 6, 2005
I read this book AFTER reading ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS by Janet Woititz. Both provided me with insight into a problem I only recently realized I have. However, Black's book is both easier to read and has more detailed analysis. She divides ACoAs into four categories: The Responsible One, The Adjuster, The Placater, and "Acting Out". I fit the profile of Responsible in every way. I now understand myself better, and am beginning therapy for the first time in my life at the age of 55. Thank you, Dr. Black, for opening my eyes!
This book could change your life.
(28 of 28 Found this Helpful)
April 3, 2001
Both of my parents were alcoholics, and when I read It Will Never Happen to Me in the 1980s it changed my life forever. Just this week I recommended it to yet another person. Most people I've given it to are afraid to read it, because it will bring back painful memories, but it is worth it. If some readers find the material in this book to be basic or familiar, they may not realize that it was the ground breaking book on this subject for a popular audience. All subsequent books for adult children of alcoholics owe a debt to Claudia Black.
This is an excellent book on the topic
(26 of 27 Found this Helpful)
June 18, 1999
This book first came to my attention more than ten years ago, when I (in my late 20's at the time) was attempting to cope with the effects a parent's alcoholism had had on me. My siblings and I had always recognized the parent was an alcoholic, but did not understand the full effect that life in such a household had on us. The book was recommended to me, and it was so much on target I felt I was reading about my own family. The book does a great job explaining the various roles other family members take on when an alcoholic is present in their lives. These roles are what explain our later behavior, and in order to come to terms with the present behavior, you have to understand why you're doing it. I've read a few books on the subject; this was by far the best.
Stunning & accurate portrayal of life in an alcoholic family
(8 of 8 Found this Helpful)
November 18, 2000
This book is an incredibly accurate portrayal of life growing up in an alcoholic family. It discusses the profound effect alcoholism has had on my childhood, adolescents, and now, as an adult. It also gives excellent pointers on how to begin the long journey of reversing the problems.
Excellent, wonderful book!
If one or both of your parents drank -- or had a friend whose parents drank, buy this book.
good help
(4 of 4 Found this Helpful)
April 16, 2004
I read it like a month ago and it changed the way I look into my life. I recommend it to all the ones who say 'It will never happen to me'.
