Below are the top 7 audiobook recovery memoirs that I recommend (more will be added). I’ve been a long time fan of Audible. I love the convenience and format of audiobooks. Listen to my recording above as I detail some of my favorite features of Audible.
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- How to Quit Drinking Cold Turkey by Mishka Shubaly Mishka is narrating the story and telling us to stop bullshitting like a Mishka smackdown. But as we go on this journey with him, his voice is like the good angel on your shoulder and the hard love softens a bit. It’s not a prescriptive approach at all which is what I like. And I’m sure I could listen to just about anything he narrates-that voice! For more on Mishka, check out Episode 47 where I get the behind the scenes scoop on all things Mishka.
2. My Fair Junkie: A Memoir of Getting Dirty and Staying Clean by Amy Dresner
I have not read this one yet, but it’s next on my list. I’ve heard so many rave reviews of this audiobook.
3. Lit by Mary Karr
This book was recommended to me by a mentor of mine and it does not disappoint. Karr’s story is beautifully written. If you like masterfully written prose, this one’s for you. This is a story of faith and love through the journey of sobriety. Her letter to her son in the beginning is incredibly touching.
4. Between Breaths: A Memoir of Panic and Addiction by Elizabeth Vargas
Anyone that has struggled with anxiety might understand the allure of alcohol to cope. This memoir is also on my reading list.
5. Before I Leave You by Robert Imbeault
What was meant to be a good bye letter on the road to suicide instead became a memoir that has helped many people suffering from childhood sexual abuse and trauma know that they’re not alone and recovery is possible. Although the subject matter is difficult, Rob does a great job of keeping things light with much humor-usually pointed at himself. Check out the episode I did with Robert Imbeault- Episode 63
6. Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman by Lindy West
I love this book. It is a collection of essays about Lindy West’s life. It is at times hilarious and heartbreaking. West takes us on her journey through self-discovery, body-image, fat shaming, grief and love.
7. I don’t want to talk about it: overcoming the secrecy of male depression by Terrence Real
A definite must read. When we think of depression, we often think of Women who fit the category and the DSM-5 would agree that Women fit the criteria for depression 2 to 1 over men. This book contends that many men also suffer from a form of depression-covert depression. Terry Real’s narrative of trauma and substance abuse is woven throughout the book. Check out episode 61 to listen to my review of this book!