Review by diana lowery -- Ripcord Recovery by T.T. Sawyer
15 posts
[Following is a volunteer review of "Ripcord Recovery" by T.T. Sawyer.]
[rbc=4]id274447-125[/rbc]
Sawyer's short memoir describes how he did, indeed, heal himself. He took over his own recovery and found a way to stop the problems he faced in his attempts to follow the typical programs offered by AA and other groups. His solution is unorthodox, controversial, and possibly illegal, but it has been successful for him for three years. His plan incorporates the AA program but adds another element. Sawyer has a lengthy history with trying to stay sober and narrates his journey, with all its highs and lows, and describes the devastation his addiction caused. Today, he continues to attend meetings, meet with his sponsor, and follow AA guidelines, but his problems of constant cravings and thoughts of suicide have been conquered using his ripcord program.
Even though T.T. Sawyer is a pseudonym, the tone of this short treatise is honest and sincere. The reason for keeping his identity secret is explained at the beginning of the book. Notoriety would cause Sawyer personal and financial problems. The author's purpose, however, is clear; Sawyer states that if he helps even one person, his self-published journey will have been worthwhile.
I realize that not revealing the "cure" too early is an effective technique, but I was disappointed with the opening chapters. The somewhat bland passages of background details, which do provide credibility, would turn away the individuals who need to read this book. I have people in my life who would benefit from hearing this message, but they would quit before they reached "Avalanche Control," the pivotal chapter.
I like that the work is well-edited and does not include anything offensive. The author mentions that he has three degrees and has had five professional careers. Although his writing is academic, it is not over-bearing. The book is informative, thought-provoking, and easy to read. It would appeal to everyone who has been directly or indirectly affected by addiction.
I am rating this a 4 out of 4.
I hope to see a sequel where the author chronicles his continued sobriety, introduces others who have been successful following his plan, and perhaps discloses his identity without fear of repercussions.
******
Ripcord Recovery
View: on Bookshelves |
Sawyer's short memoir describes how he did, indeed, heal himself. He took over his own recovery and found a way to stop the problems he faced in his attempts to follow the typical programs offered by AA and other groups. His solution is unorthodox, controversial, and possibly illegal, but it has been successful for him for three years. His plan incorporates the AA program but adds another element. Sawyer has a lengthy history with trying to stay sober and narrates his journey, with all its highs and lows, and describes the devastation his addiction caused. Today, he continues to attend meetings, meet with his sponsor, and follow AA guidelines, but his problems of constant cravings and thoughts of suicide have been conquered using his ripcord program.
Even though T.T. Sawyer is a pseudonym, the tone of this short treatise is honest and sincere. The reason for keeping his identity secret is explained at the beginning of the book. Notoriety would cause Sawyer personal and financial problems. The author's purpose, however, is clear; Sawyer states that if he helps even one person, his self-published journey will have been worthwhile.
I realize that not revealing the "cure" too early is an effective technique, but I was disappointed with the opening chapters. The somewhat bland passages of background details, which do provide credibility, would turn away the individuals who need to read this book. I have people in my life who would benefit from hearing this message, but they would quit before they reached "Avalanche Control," the pivotal chapter.
I like that the work is well-edited and does not include anything offensive. The author mentions that he has three degrees and has had five professional careers. Although his writing is academic, it is not over-bearing. The book is informative, thought-provoking, and easy to read. It would appeal to everyone who has been directly or indirectly affected by addiction.
I am rating this a 4 out of 4.
I hope to see a sequel where the author chronicles his continued sobriety, introduces others who have been successful following his plan, and perhaps discloses his identity without fear of repercussions.
******
Ripcord Recovery
View: on Bookshelves |
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