Smoke and Mirrors: The Magical World of Chemical Dependency
[Smoke and Mirrors makes] the chemically dependent person come alive for the reader as a plausible being, despite the compulsiveness, the impulsiveness, the ruthlessness and the dishonestynot just as a target for our contempt and rejection, nor as one to be excused and pitied but as a powerful and clever deceiverso clever that s/he fools her/himself as well. --Earl Alfred Loomis, MDIn this deceptively simple little book, Ms. England has made accessible for both professionals and the general public the theory linking neurochemical science to the behaviors and relational patterns observed in persons with addictions and those who love them. As a professional working with families ravaged by addiction, and as a member of Al-Anon seeking to grow and be a good steward of the life experiences that are mine, I am challenged by this book to seek ways to apply its techniques with clients and my own lifeMs. Englands book reminds me in the particularly memorable way of any good storythat there is both danger and delight in this activity of living. --Gloria M.