Guts

Guts: The Endless Follies and Tiny Triumphs of a Giant Disaster by Kristen Johnsten

I really enjoyed this memoir. I found Johnsten to be brutally honest, insightful and funny. Her story is compelling, not only for recovering alchol/drug addicts, but for everyone who has overcome struggles in life.

Johnsten begins by recounting her childhood, then moves into her twenties and professional success stories. She is very open about how her addictions began—heavy drinking and pills.

The turning point comes when Johnsten’s partying catches up to her and she alone and sick in a foreign country. This portion of the book is sad, but also hopeful, as she realizes how much damage she has done to her body and her relationships.

I highly recommend this memoir.