Drunk-ish: A Memoir of Loving and Leaving Alcohol

by Stefanie Wilder-Taylor

From the author of Sippy Cups Are Not for Chardonnay , a hilariously candid and refreshingly honest account of Stefanie Wilder-Taylor’s journey to breaking up with alcohol for good.

When Stefanie Wilder-Taylor became a mother, being able to connect with other moms over drinks or enjoy a glass of wine at the end of a stressful day felt life-affirming. From liquor cabinet concoctions in high school to tequila shots in her early stand-up comedy days to grocery store wine in young motherhood, alcohol was the seasoning that could give almost any activity more flavor. A drink instantly took the edge off and made even the most difficult adversary (be it a tough crowd in a comedy club or a judgmental PTA mom) not just bearable but fun.

As the years go by, Stefanie wonders if her relationship with alcohol is different from other people’s. Is everyone else struggling this hard to moderate? Is it even legal to watch The Bachelor without a glass of white wine?

Having spent a lifetime grappling with the question of whether or not she is a “real” alcoholic, one evening brings Stefanie close to the edge of losing it all. Miraculously unscathed, she decides that she doesn’t need to dive all the way down to a stereotypical rock bottom before deciding to stop drinking; if sobriety will improve her life, that’s a good enough reason to quit. Stefanie’s memoir is a tender and funny farewell letter to a beloved but toxic friend.

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction, Audiobook, Self Help, Addiction, Alcohol, Humor

288 pages, Hardcover

Published January 16, 2024

About the author

Stefanie Wilder-Taylor is the author of six books including Sippy Cups Are Not for Chardonnay, Gummi Bears Should Not be Organic and her latest, Drunk-ish. She also co-hosts the hit podcast For Crying Out Loud as well as Rose Pricks and Bored AF. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, three teenagers and her dog, Penelope. She no longer drinks but she may have a serious problem with sugar-free popsicles.

Reviews

[Shannon (The Book Club Mom) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was first introduced to Stefanie Wilder-Taylor many moons ago, when my kiddos were toddlers, and we watched a lot of tv shows on Nickelodeon. During the day, my son and daughter would watch Dora the Explorer, Paw Patrol, and Blaze & the Monster Machines. One night after the kids were in bed, yet Nickelodeon was still blaring, I discovered a funny and super relatable show called Parental Discretion with Stefanie Wilder-Taylor. I appreciated the fact that it was geared towards moms, and funny as heck. At that point in my life, I desperately needed some comedic relief, so I tried to catch Stefanie’s show every weeknight. I loved her snarky sense of humor so much, I started following her on Facebook, and soon found out that she had written a hilarious parenting guide called, Sippy Cups Are Not for Chardonnay. (So funny! Adored it!) When I heard that she had a new memoir coming out, I requested it immediately. In Drunk-ish, Wilder-Taylor talks both candidly and seriously about her relationship with alcohol. In the throes of motherhood, she would day-drink with other moms during play dates, and sipped on wine to unwind after a long day. She didn’t think she had a problem with alcohol, but some of her friends and family members were concerned. At first, she was in denial and made excuses. Her life was stressful! Sure, maybe she was becoming dependent on alcohol to get through the day, but was it really that bad? When do you label yourself an actual alcoholic? How awful do things need to be? She’d never received a DUI, and had never been to rehab, so how could she be an alcoholic? After some reflection, her eyes were opened, and it became evident that she needed some help. I found Wilder-Taylor’s bravery, openness, and honesty in discussing her road to sobriety extremely admirable. I’m so glad she had the support, tools, and resources to get the help she needed. I applaud her for sharing her story, as I think it could be helpful to others who find themselves toeing that same line when it comes to alcohol use.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredibly honest memoir about the author's drug and alcohol addiction and disordered eating habits and the wake up call that forced her to stop cold turkey. Told with her trademark humor and wit, this was highly relatable and a must read for anyone (especially mothers) wondering if they might be using alcohol to avoid/deflect from other life problems, particularly depression, anxiety and postpartum. Great on audio read by the author herself. Many thanks to Simon Schuster Audio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!

[A Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Drunk-ish" is a refreshingly candid and humorous memoir that delves into the complex relationship many of us have with alcohol. Stefanie Wilder-Taylor's journey from using alcohol as a social lubricant to questioning its place in her life is both relatable and eye-opening. Her witty anecdotes, from liquor cabinet concoctions to tequila shots in her comedy days, resonate with anyone who has sought solace or excitement in a drink. The book takes you on a rollercoaster of self-discovery as Stefanie grapples with the question of whether she's a "real" alcoholic. Her decision to embrace sobriety is both courageous and empowering, making this memoir a heartfelt and funny farewell letter to a toxic but familiar friend. "Drunk-ish" is a must-read for anyone who has questioned their own relationship with alcohol and found strength in making a change for the better.

[Celeste Velocci (bookrecs_by_celeste)]

This was such a great memoir! I love listening to memoirs because it's always so great to hear the author tell their own story.

Whether you drink , don't drink, wonder if you have a drinking problem, have an addictive personality, or want to stop drinking, this book is for you. It was very real and raw. I learned a lot about those around me and myself and what it means to have an addictive personality that maybe you never even realized that you had.

Stefanie-Wilder-Taylor goes deep into her love, hate, and relationship with alcohol and how she decided to get sober.

This was a witty, educational, funny, and emotional read.

[Ink_Drinker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My father, uncles and cousins were all alcoholics.  I grew up in a family where drinking every day was normal.  My drinking nightmare began when I was in high school and it ended in 2001.  I've been 23yrs sober!!!

The reason I share this is because I know there may be others out there that need help, but are afraid or too embarassed to talk about it with anyone.  I want you to know my DMs are always open and private.  I've hit rock bottom (I won't share those details here) and never thought I could quit drinking, but I did and I am now a much stronger and more confident person and YOU can do it too!!

Stefanie Wilder-Taylor's story of becoming sober after years of drunkenness is told with wit, intelligence, and engaging honesty.

Stephanie, a mother, reflects on her relationship with alcohol—from high school concoctions to young motherhood. She questions whether her struggle to moderate is shared by others. One evening, she teeters on the edge but decides sobriety is worth it. Her memoir is a tender and funny farewell to a beloved but toxic friend.

Stefanie candid account makes this book a refreshing exploration of life, addiction, and self-discovery.

If you think you may drink to much or have a loved one your concerned about, here are a few other books that I've read along my journey that have helped me.
●Drinking: A Love Story by Caroline Knapp
●The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober by Catherine Gray
●Blackout: Remembering the Things that I Drank to Forget by Sarah Hepola
●Lit: A Memoir by Mary Karr

🎧 I alternated between reading and listening. The author narrated and it felt like I was chatting with a friend and laughing over a glass of cherry flavored sparkling water.  I highly recommend listening to the book, if you can, because her sense of humor really comes through.

[Julie · Rating 2 out of 5]

A substance abuse memoir without much substance 👀

I understand the author is a humorist but the use of humor here to sugarcoat her addiction issues and her path to sobriety feels cheap and avoidant. I felt like she never got vulnerable with me about her shitty dad and her alcoholism without cloaking it with pretty formulaic punchlines that did nothing for the story.

It wasn’t terribly funny. It wasn’t terribly illuminating either. And it certainly wasn’t informative or inspiring for those who might be interested in curbing their own maladaptive tendencies.

Two stars because it was a quick read that I was interested in finishing despite its frivolous tone. Unfortunately in this case, the jokes didn’t land and the humor detracted from her own story, which actually has merit.

[Deanna (she_reads_truth_365)]

From the author of Sippy Cups Are Not for Chardonnay, comes a true account of author Stefanie Wilder-Taylor’s journey to breaking up with alcohol for good. Stefanie was a former stand up comedian who needed alcohol, lots of alcohol to battle stage fright. After having twins, she consumed alcohol to help with anxiety. As a mom, I could relate to her struggles with parenting and the need to drink alcohol to cope. I admire her decision to completely give up drinking for her kids. Also, appreciated the author’s courage to share her story with the world. This story was so powerful, candid and laugh out loud hilarious.

I received an advanced electronic copy from publisher Gallery Books and Netgalley. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book.

[Kerri Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for a good memoir, and this one hit the spot. As a child of two alcoholics, I've been thinking a lot about my relationship with alcohol and this one really makes the reader think and reflect.

Her witty banter, her honesty, her gift to pull the reader in to her story is what made this an enjoyable and quick read.

[Kristina Finnell]

This was an interesting listen and brings awareness to the normalization of drinking as a coping mechanism, particularly when it comes to ‘mom culture’. She is a comedian, which shows in the light hearted way she addresses her addiction(s) and how she’s coped being on the other side of the fence as a sober person and mom.

(Recently decided not to give memoirs ratings anymore because it feels strange to give a star value to someone’s experience.)

[Shelby (catching up on 2025 reviews)]

Thank you Gallery Books, Libro FM, and Simon Audio for my gifted copies!

𝗗𝗿𝘂𝗻𝗸-𝗶𝘀𝗵
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗽𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿-𝗧𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗼𝗿

📖 From the author of Sippy Cups Are Not for Chardonnay , a hilariously candid and refreshingly honest account of Stefanie Wilder-Taylor’s journey to breaking up with alcohol for good.

💭 Though the topic at hand is a serious one (addiction is nothing to laugh at), this memoir is infused with so much humor and down-to-earth-ness that it made it incredibly entertaining. Wilder-Taylor has a gift for storytelling. Her journey is difficult, inspiring, and relatable in so many ways. As someone who chooses not to drink alcohol, I hope this lands in the laps of those who need it most. ☺️

🎧 This is narrated by the author, and she does an excellent job! I love hearing the words of a memoir through the author's own voice. It makes it so much more personal and impactful. Definitely recommend this format.
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[Áine Dougherty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Insightful, honest, and sometimes funny. This was a fairly easy read despite it being a heavy topic. Wilder-Taylor is a bit cringey sometimes in her word choice and jokes, but I liked her as a person, so I was invested in her writing. It really felt like she was an expert about sobriety & herself. However, for most of the book I almost felt like readers were being kept at arms length, even in her most vulnerable moments of the story…. Maybe it was her deflection to humor, maybe it was the lack of drama in her journey, maybe it was even her voice in the audiobook…. I don’t know exactly, but I definitely felt like I wanted more emotionally from her.

[Basic B's Guide · Rating 4 out of 5]

The audiobook is narrated by the author (who really grew on me).

This is for anyone who wants to take a look at their relationship with alcohol or is sober curious.

Candid, revealing, relatable and personal. The author shares a peek into her breakup with alcohol.

[Sandy Gallardo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first heard about this book after reading an article on TIME Magazine. I was intrigued almost immediately after reading the TIME magazine article and I bought the book about a month after it was published. As someone who loves alcohol and who has left alcohol for 2 years now I could really relate to Stefanie. It took a lot of vulnerability for Stefanie to write about her journey with alcohol and the challenges she faced after leaving. It can be an isolating leaving alcohol and this book reminded be that it doesn’t have to be an isolating experience.

[Liz Babbitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life affirming, life altering, inspirational, brave, vulnerable. Laughed out loud, felt the journey in my soul, found myself within these pages. It’s like holding up a mirror to myself. I’ll probably listen again … and again.

[Nicola Hope · Rating 3 out of 5]

This memoir had some interesting moments and unfortunately (for me) relatable feelings about alcohol and motherhood. It went well beyond that (pills etc) and got a little self-helpy, but overall a good read.

[Gabriella Cuevas · Rating 5 out of 5]

great raw memoir about one’s complicated relationship with alcohol … alcohol is everywhere and at every social gathering … i wanted to read this book because the transition from college to real world drinking is important … i think about my own relationship with alcohol a lot and this book gave me some great perspective … would recommend

[Madison ✨ (mad.lyreading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book up because the author questions whether she constitutes as a "real" alcoholic when she decides to go sober. As someone who has questioned their own relationship with alcohol, I was interested to hear a sober story from someone who didn't necessarily consider themselves an alcoholic. That all being said - this woman had a very bad relationship with alcohol and she was lucky enough to recognize it before anything terrible happened. Therefore, it wasn't the alcohol memoir I was personally looking for, but with that out of the way, I still enjoyed it.

Wilder-Taylor does a great job of writing as her past self despite being 14 years sober. Her line of thinking is very easy to follow, and I really felt for her. She writes of the complexities of our society's relationship with alcohol, and even acknowledges her own role in normalize Mommy drinking. I really enjoyed this book, and I feel like I got a lot out of it as someone who has questioned her relationship with alcohol, even if I was not drinking as much or as frequently as the author was before she went sober.

Thank you to Gallery Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you #netgalley for the early copy!

Having read Sippy Cups Are Not for Chardonnay, I was looking forward to this new Wilder-Taylor read. But I was surprised to find the content a 180 of her previous book. In this book Stephanie bravely shares the events leading up to her sobriety. The questions that people may ask themselves and/or convince themselves that they may not even be an alcoholic. However, Stephanie does an amazing job explaining what worked for her, even when it was difficult, especially around other margarita drinking mothers. It was interesting to follow her mental health progression during this entire process, connecting with others in AA and ultimately connecting with her husband Jim, but for the first time in a sober state. All of this was done not only for Stephanie herself, but her children and family, no matter how difficult it may be.

[Reagan Formea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC- thank you to the publishers!

I can always appreciate an author that is vulnerable and raw with their audience. This doesn’t have much to do with the book but I did also appreciate how the author protected her children’s identity, that’s rare in this age and I think it’s always for the best. I think this book could be very beneficial for people who need to hear about alcoholism and becoming sober from a typical, everyday person. She’s not someone with a huge scary story about her relationship with alcohol, she’s just someone who couldn’t control the amount she drank, and I think a lot of people will be able to relate to that.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think my own addiction is reading memoirs and fiction novels about other people's actual serious addictions! I don't know what that says about me, but whatever it is, I'm not changing my book preferences now!
This memoir is unflinchingly honest; I appreciate the author being so forthcoming with what must have been an experience of great stress and struggle.
The gratitude that she expresses for living a sober, and therefore a more intentional and fulfilling life, is inspiring.
I thank her for sharing her story so openly with all of us.

[fern · Rating 1 out of 5]

I hate finished this book so I could thoroughly complain about it with my book club. I do not understand the hype behind this book, I think it was just bad. I found the author to be incredibly tone deaf and privileged, and the whole book felt like it lacked substance. I think this book was written for a singular type of audience and was not my type of memoir about sobriety

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

I'm obviously not the primary audience (I'm not a mom in my late 30s), but the thoughts and reflection on addiction, substance abuse and the subsequent denial thereof I find translates into many aspects of life.

[Jordan Baca · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Bbecca_marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drunk-ish is a refreshing and relatable story about Stefanie Wilder- Taylor’s relationship with alcohol. It’s candid and raw in a way that rings true. Even if you may not have relationship struggles or issues with alcohol, this book opens your eyes to people you maybe know that do. Reading it, I look back and think of the times I was stressed out and immediately thought, wow! I could really use a glass of wine. Whether or not you’re trying to stray from alcohol, this is a memoir worth reading. It has its funny moment and it feels like you’re having a heart to heart with someone you know. Kudos to the author for writing such an honest take on her relationship to with alcohol and giving me insight to what a healthy or unhealthy relationships can look like. Drunk-ish is out today, 1/16/24. Happy publication day!

Thank you so much Gallery Books for my gifted copy and the chance to review it honestly.

Happy reading!

[Shirley Mytnowych · Rating 5 out of 5]

This journey to sobriety is told with so much honesty and personal vulnerability, yet funny at times. It's not a sob story or a documentation of personal victory. It hits the nail on the head, getting at the core of what overcoming addiction is really like and what so many people in 12 Step programs have in common. She doesn't boast, brag or promote any single way to get sober- she tells us what it was truly like for her, using humour and words to describe her innermost thoughts along the way. 5 big stars from me!

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an unabashed and self-acknowledging of when is the time to admit you have a problem. Additionally, I really enjoyed Stefanie Wilder-Taylor's writing style.

I received an ecopy of this book through Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the author tell her story. It was such a good story. I enjoyed hearing her perspective from a Mom, & the Mommy & wine culture our society supports & how drinking got out of control when she had kids and needed something to take the edge off.

She is very witty, open, vulnerable and clearly helpful, and motivating to others. I couldn’t stop listening to this book. I finished it in a day. I’d highly recommend it to any moms out there questioning whether they might be drinking too much in order to numb out or decrease their anxiety about parenting. I’m grateful I’ve heard her story!

[Gabby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved that this book addresses labels, identity, and how we often don’t fall into stereotypes. The rawness of her writing I’m sure has helped many.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

made me laugh out loud a handful of times because, me too. her story about eating the cookie skillet was so funny. the chapters 20 Questions and Whack-a-Mole were my favorite.

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️5

“You can take the girl out of the drinking world, but you cant take the urge to drink out of the girl”

I would give this 6⭐️ if I could.

Stefanie tells her story in the most relatable way with humor that had me embarrassingly laughing out loud. Her gut level honesty had me in tears, wanting to give her a big hug and to say, I totally get you girl.

This book was like the best weekend with your bff that went by way too fast-I loved it-thank you Stefanie❤️