Sam Lovell
asked:
I am debating whether to read this. I don't think the fact he sold it as non-fiction when it wasn't is the biggest deal but is it actually a good story? Does it serve as a deterrence for drug use and alcohol abuse? Is it moving despite the 'scandal?' Thank you.
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A Million Little Pieces,
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Carol Waters
The writer is an ass. He pontificated on the use of willpower as a means of attaining sobriety and put down some of the most reputable treatment programs in this country while he lied about having an addiction. My concern is that he encouraged people to avoid one of the few things that might give them a chance at life. Detoxing at home can be deadly, because it's a medical issue, not cheap entertainment. He romanticized addiction, overstated his role as a charmer who beat the odds, and did the one thing that one can't do if one hopes to have a decent chance at recovery: lived in the lie. Thinking this was a good plot is right up there with believing that Wizard of Oz was a travelogue. If he'd admitted it was fantasy he at least would have maintained his dignity. Jerk.
Julio Bonilla
I am on the last few chapters, and I must say, this book literally takes you in-depth through what addicts go through in rehab: Flashbacks, withdrawal symptoms, trying to maintain the focus on one's self. I highly recommend you read this book.
Ivan Katsarov
This is one of the most unique reading experiences I've ever encountered. I only found out about the 'scandal' after I've already started reading it so I had already assumed it was fiction as some of the volumes sound unrealistic. No disappointments as the story is very captivating and the writing style is quite unique to me. I have not finished the book just yet but I do recommend it.
Josef Miyasato
I'll always take issue with this book. It's entire appeal was the fact that it was marketed as a true story, a story of hell and redemption. These stories don't need to be true to be compelling. And I've heard from enough people that despite the book being largely fiction, passing itself off as nonfiction, the writing is good. But this was not what got everyone's attention. I think that anytime you deliberately lie for gain, there is an accounting. And I don't think this book can really be forgiven until it is dismissed and "forgotten." Besides, there are too many honest books out there to read that I don't need to take the time to read this one.
Trendsetta
The whole Oprah flap was ridiculous. Everybody embellishes their memoirs to some extent. And who's Oprah anyway? A talk-show host? Please. Someone of her ilk maligning a writer of James Frey's ability would be akin to Pee Wee Herman critiquing the works of Socrates. Frey displays more talent on any single page of this book than Oprah has in her entire life. Definitely read it. It was one of the Top 10 non-fiction books of the 2000's, in my opinion
Witches Know-Best
Not a book for those in recovery. The author probably has done more harm than anyone can imagine by promoting the idea of self will vs admitting the addiction, surrendering to treatment, working the steps, seeking and accepting help. Total ridiculousness about what it's like in a rehab facility. Pure fiction. And, not very good fiction at that. Read as a lesson in what not to do in recovery & rehab. Read if you want to support an egotistical fraud who lied about this being his personal experience. The author should check himself into a rehab, because if he is an addict/alcoholic the writing of this book will be on his 4th Step.
Mrs. Ryan
I really enjoyed the story. I t was a story with likable characters who had real struggles. I read it in hopes of better understanding individuals with additions. There were some parts of the story that were a little dull but hey that's life . . . Oh wait it's not a true story. Yes, I read it and then found out it was not a true story and felt cheated. Then I felt stupid for believing so many lies.
Deborah Albers
Having lived through this as a parent of an addict, it hits pretty close to home, is generally accurate (though a few points are exaggerated).
It's good read, and I enjoyed it. I would say it's closer to non-fiction than fiction with a little extra thrown in.
It's good read, and I enjoyed it. I would say it's closer to non-fiction than fiction with a little extra thrown in.
Christy Thedorf
I am currently reading this book. The book doesn't even come close to anyone coming off alcohol or drug addiction. I have never been addicted to either, but know that a nurse at a hospital said an alcohol withdrawal is worse than a heroin withdrawal. James in the book doesn't ever barely go through ANY withdrawal. If I hadn't known there was all this controversy, the book would still be good. It's a good book, but people have to remember it's fiction. Still a great read.
Janae Salinas
I absolutely love the book. I think it really goes in-depth over the struggles that real addicts actually face. This book is probably the most inspiring book I have ever read, but people's opinions differ quite a bit. Some people say it's terrible, the author is a terrible person since he lied about the whole thing, but besides that, I think the story itself is moving. It may be over-dramatic and too optimistic at times, but it's still a good read.
Casey Komperda
I really liked the book, I've read it twice.
Stuart Hawthorn
I absolutely loved the book, it had me in hysterical laughter and deep tears of compassion. I found out about the Opra thing soon after starting the book, to late I was into it. Great read, a lot of the addiction thinking and attitudes is very relevant. I was in rehab when I read it. Would recommend it anytime.
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