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Acrobaddict
"This raw and emotional tale is a roller coaster through the depths of addiction, tragedy, hard work, and redemption that truly reflects Joe's spirit and determination to stay clean in a world where he is surrounded by temptation. It is proof that with hard work, anything is possible."—Sanjay Gupta, MD, CNN Chief Medical Correspondent A world-class athlete's tale of two his ardent love for gymnastics and his intoxicating romance with heroin. Gritty and raw, this is a story that goes beyond the typical addiction memoir. A gripping narrative that captures the fragility and tenacity of the human spirit and how Putignano ultimately triumphs in his recovery and redemption.
Follow the author as he goes on a journey from the US Olympic Training Center to homeless shelters to shooting heroin on the job to being declared deas. Acrobaddict is a story about the close relationship between athletics and addiction — how the same energy, obsession, and dedication that can create an Olympic athlete can also create a homeless drug addict.
Follow the author as he goes on a journey from the US Olympic Training Center to homeless shelters to shooting heroin on the job to being declared deas. Acrobaddict is a story about the close relationship between athletics and addiction — how the same energy, obsession, and dedication that can create an Olympic athlete can also create a homeless drug addict.
442 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
5 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Joe Putignano
2 books16 followersJoe Putignano is a performing artist, acrobat and contortionist with Cirque du Soleil. He was star of the Cirque show, Totem, and has performed in over 1000 shows. He has performed on Broadway in the "Times They Are A Changin" choreographed and directed by the legendary Twyla Tharp. Joe has also performed in many shows at the Metropolitan Opera House, appeared on several TV shows and has modeled in many magazines. Joe Putignano is the best selling author of Acrobaddict, and was recently seen discussing his book on Anderson Cooper360, CNN, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, ABC, CBS, Headlining News, Huffington Post, CTV Canada, National Brazil TV Global, Instinct Magazine, The Advocate, TheFix.com, and in talks to become a major motion picture.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (Starred review) After reading former Olympic gymnastics hopeful Putignano's sinister yet intoxicating memoir of addiction, recovery, and more addiction, you wind up feeling like one of his closest friends. The first-time author, who now portrays Crystal Man in Cirque du Soleil's traveling production of Totem, divulges what must be nearly every significant detail of his journey from the basement of his parents' Massachusetts home, where as an 8-year-old he taught himself flips using old couch cushions; to the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, where the author's insane quest for perfection exposed his insecurities and triggered his self-loathing; and finally to a seemingly never-ending series of addict escapades throughout his college and post-college years that somehow did not even climax after he was twice declared clinically dead. Putignano's homosexuality plays a crucial role in his story, and it is the one topic here he handles delicately. Elsewhere, his prose is unfiltered: graphic and intimate. Prone to hyperbole to the point of distraction, Putignano nevertheless writes so vividly about his highs that readers practically experience them with him. Similarly, his lows drop them into the private circles of hell on earth he created. A more powerful anti-drug missive would be tough to find. (Sept.)
LIBRARY JOURNAL (July 22, 2013) Dale Farris, Groves, TX–Former star acrobatic contortionist and gymnast of the Cirque du Soleil’s “Totem,” performer in Twyla Tharp’s musical The Times They Are A’changin, and guest on Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s CNN show Human Factor, Putignano, shares his heartfelt, emotionally wrenching story of addiction to heroin. Putignano’s memoir takes readers on an unsettling journey from his experience in the U.S. Olympic Training Center to homeless shelters to shooting heroin on the job, and even being declared dead. His vivid, brutally honest story begins with his realizing at an early age his innate talent for gymnastics, followed by his obsession with becoming an Olympic gymnastic champion, how he abandoned his Olympic hopes to chase his love of heroin, and ultimately how he managed to overcome his addiction and move into long-term recovery and stability. The narrative is replete with colorful descriptions of his many harrowing experiences, and deep musings that have formed the foundation for his commitment to remain free of drugs and a shining light for others who may be seeking guidance. VERDICT Putignano’s honest memoir of drug abuse is a valuable addition to substance-abuse literature. His status as a successful gymnast and performer helps connect readers, and his impressive, erudite style results in a highly credible addition to this rapidly saturating genre.
“You will not read a more candid book this year. Prepare to be frightened and taken to the depths of despair and then lifted up triumphantly. It is never too late to hit the reset button on your life–that is what you are about to learn from Joe Putignano . He is equally adept at taking you through the remarkable journey of his own terrible addiction as he is in the world of acrobatics, descending from the Cirque du Soleil big top as a human mirror ball–the figurative spark of change
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (Starred review) After reading former Olympic gymnastics hopeful Putignano's sinister yet intoxicating memoir of addiction, recovery, and more addiction, you wind up feeling like one of his closest friends. The first-time author, who now portrays Crystal Man in Cirque du Soleil's traveling production of Totem, divulges what must be nearly every significant detail of his journey from the basement of his parents' Massachusetts home, where as an 8-year-old he taught himself flips using old couch cushions; to the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, where the author's insane quest for perfection exposed his insecurities and triggered his self-loathing; and finally to a seemingly never-ending series of addict escapades throughout his college and post-college years that somehow did not even climax after he was twice declared clinically dead. Putignano's homosexuality plays a crucial role in his story, and it is the one topic here he handles delicately. Elsewhere, his prose is unfiltered: graphic and intimate. Prone to hyperbole to the point of distraction, Putignano nevertheless writes so vividly about his highs that readers practically experience them with him. Similarly, his lows drop them into the private circles of hell on earth he created. A more powerful anti-drug missive would be tough to find. (Sept.)
LIBRARY JOURNAL (July 22, 2013) Dale Farris, Groves, TX–Former star acrobatic contortionist and gymnast of the Cirque du Soleil’s “Totem,” performer in Twyla Tharp’s musical The Times They Are A’changin, and guest on Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s CNN show Human Factor, Putignano, shares his heartfelt, emotionally wrenching story of addiction to heroin. Putignano’s memoir takes readers on an unsettling journey from his experience in the U.S. Olympic Training Center to homeless shelters to shooting heroin on the job, and even being declared dead. His vivid, brutally honest story begins with his realizing at an early age his innate talent for gymnastics, followed by his obsession with becoming an Olympic gymnastic champion, how he abandoned his Olympic hopes to chase his love of heroin, and ultimately how he managed to overcome his addiction and move into long-term recovery and stability. The narrative is replete with colorful descriptions of his many harrowing experiences, and deep musings that have formed the foundation for his commitment to remain free of drugs and a shining light for others who may be seeking guidance. VERDICT Putignano’s honest memoir of drug abuse is a valuable addition to substance-abuse literature. His status as a successful gymnast and performer helps connect readers, and his impressive, erudite style results in a highly credible addition to this rapidly saturating genre.
“You will not read a more candid book this year. Prepare to be frightened and taken to the depths of despair and then lifted up triumphantly. It is never too late to hit the reset button on your life–that is what you are about to learn from Joe Putignano . He is equally adept at taking you through the remarkable journey of his own terrible addiction as he is in the world of acrobatics, descending from the Cirque du Soleil big top as a human mirror ball–the figurative spark of change
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 13, 2015
I don't normally rate book club books, but I wanted to rate this one. I liked this book because it made me think. At times I got fed up and I remember thinking, "really...another relapse, when are we going to get past this?" and then I thought about all of the times I've promised myself that I would change a habit, something I knew needed to change, like my relationship with food, like grazing even when I'm not hungry and my love of what I call "the brown food diet" (you know, when you look at your plate and the only thing on it is in shades of brown?). I know it's not the same as Joe Putignano's experience, but it was a way for me to identify with the fight. The fight to know you deserve better. The fight to make the change last (I mean, I feel so much better when I eat colors, exercise and take care of my body, why don't I want that to last?). And the fight to recognize the self-sabotage and question the "why". I recommend this to anyone struggling with overcoming any type of addiction or something you don't yet recognize as an addiction but you really want to change a negative pattern.
March 24, 2015
It took a little work to get into the book, but once you're in, it's a page-turning roller coaster ride. Addiction is a mind-boggling and heart breaking disease which Mr. Putignano describes in dark details. This goes to show that it can happen to anyone, and I hope people pick up this book to gain empathy for friends, family, strangers that struggle with this wretched disease.
This story is told as a personal encounter with addiction. To read more about addiction from a family member's perspective, I recommend "Beautiful Boy" by David Sheff.
This story is told as a personal encounter with addiction. To read more about addiction from a family member's perspective, I recommend "Beautiful Boy" by David Sheff.
August 2, 2015
As a person in recovery it was often very painful to read of the struggles thinking how greatful that I did not go down the exact path but such a mind opening reminder of how quickly one can get that desire and thinking and be back In the middle of insanity
Wow
Wow
June 9, 2013
I loved this book - couldn't put it down. From the vivid descriptions of descent into addiction to the wonderful redemption of recovery, this is one of the best addiction memoirs I've read.
March 28, 2014
Well written with often graphic depictions of heroin and other drug usage.
June 21, 2016
An interesting story based on true events, the writing is not great. It seems to me that the author tries too hard to be poetic which creates poor writing and story telling.
November 6, 2018
An important and often difficult book. The author is likable in many ways but reveals the lies and deceptions he used to support his addiction over ten long years. The kind of complicated compassion I felt while reading is, I believe, is essential to addressing the public health crisis of addiction that has touched just about every person I know.
April 3, 2018
I loved this book. It's a fascinating look into the life of a recovering drug addict. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a bit of compassion for the human race.
May 19, 2018
Absolutely heartbreaking and honest portrayal of drug addiction (and a triumphant, circus-facilitated redemption!)
March 15, 2019
Powerful..insightful
I couldn’t put this book down. I wanted to get to the end but didn’t want it to end.
I am honored to actually met this author.
I couldn’t put this book down. I wanted to get to the end but didn’t want it to end.
I am honored to actually met this author.
Read
October 12, 2019Awesome read
July 8, 2021
Fantastic and accurate descriptions of addiction and the irrational rationality in all its glory. Finished it in less than two days.
March 24, 2015
Joe did a great job telling his story :)
Fave quotes: "My epiphany was love. If I was going to bring anything down from the grid, it had to be love. That revelation changed my entire system...It didn't matter if I did a good job or a bad job; what mattered was my intention behind the performance. In that moment, I changed my prayer. I no longer prayed for perfection, but for the ability to share my hope, strength, and story..." (pg 343)
"I took it on as my job not to perform, but to help. I had to find someone else in fear and learn to comfort them in order to withdraw my own angst; often the darkest of men carry the brightest of lights." (pg. 344)
""The reason you have so much pain in your life is because you know what home feels like, and your soul craves to go back. You know heaven, and now you suffer on Earth because life is full of pain."" (pg 353)
"I had learned to perform in humility earlier in the tour, but somewhere along the way I had forgotten it. The most powerful spiritual principles that worked were the ones I had to continue to learn over and over, and they seemed to change form. I hated that, and was tired of always thinking, *Haven't I already done this?* But the truth was that I would have to relearn them again and again, for the rest of my life." (pg. 358)
"I remember a rehab exercise where we had to describe in detail what we believed drugs brought us: euphoria, love, happiness, comfort, peace, joy, safety, and confidence. Then we were asked to describe the characteristics of people seeking a spiritual life, and the two lists of words were identical." (pg. 368)
"I believe it's intelligent for a species to seek different levels of being, but a heavy price is paid for using the path of substances, while the path of spiritual solution pays the practitioner." (pg. 368)
"...And if the calling came in the form of anything other than tragedy, would we humans listen or change?" (no, I say :)) (pg. 368)
Fave quotes: "My epiphany was love. If I was going to bring anything down from the grid, it had to be love. That revelation changed my entire system...It didn't matter if I did a good job or a bad job; what mattered was my intention behind the performance. In that moment, I changed my prayer. I no longer prayed for perfection, but for the ability to share my hope, strength, and story..." (pg 343)
"I took it on as my job not to perform, but to help. I had to find someone else in fear and learn to comfort them in order to withdraw my own angst; often the darkest of men carry the brightest of lights." (pg. 344)
""The reason you have so much pain in your life is because you know what home feels like, and your soul craves to go back. You know heaven, and now you suffer on Earth because life is full of pain."" (pg 353)
"I had learned to perform in humility earlier in the tour, but somewhere along the way I had forgotten it. The most powerful spiritual principles that worked were the ones I had to continue to learn over and over, and they seemed to change form. I hated that, and was tired of always thinking, *Haven't I already done this?* But the truth was that I would have to relearn them again and again, for the rest of my life." (pg. 358)
"I remember a rehab exercise where we had to describe in detail what we believed drugs brought us: euphoria, love, happiness, comfort, peace, joy, safety, and confidence. Then we were asked to describe the characteristics of people seeking a spiritual life, and the two lists of words were identical." (pg. 368)
"I believe it's intelligent for a species to seek different levels of being, but a heavy price is paid for using the path of substances, while the path of spiritual solution pays the practitioner." (pg. 368)
"...And if the calling came in the form of anything other than tragedy, would we humans listen or change?" (no, I say :)) (pg. 368)
September 24, 2013
Wow. A personal memoir by a talented, attractive young man ( I met him personally at BEA, he is charming) who provides a blow-by-blow account of his descent into hell and back again from the world of drugs, including heroin. This is a remarkable book in many ways. First, this book is an utter page turner as Mr Putignano's life story is highly dramatic, from his early talent at competitive gymnastics, to his fall into disgrace through the use of drugs, to his coming out as a gay man, to his recovery and success as a Cirque du Soleil performer. His story is sufficient to make this a compelling read; what elevates this to a spiritual tale of a hero's journey is his remarkable writing. As he told me, he could barely remember events through the drug-filled haze but he kept notes during those times, and called on friends to fill in the details. Speaking of using coke, he writes: "I treasured my first line, like a lover's tender kiss....After I snorted the "opening credit" I loved to light a cigarette and suck an Altoid mint, calling this combination my "steak dinner." The combination of imagery, and wry self-deprecating humor makes this a honest, humble book that allows the reader to immerse themselves in very difficult subject matter and still be entertained. There is plenty of inherent drama as the reader wonders, "could it get any worse" and "how is it he is not dead" and "how does someone like that ever find recovery." But Mr. Putignano does recover, and his tale of redemption is gratifying indeed, and after you read this book, you feel pretty good about your own challenges in life and root for Mr. Putignano's continued recovery so he can write another book!
November 8, 2015
I could not imagine how an author could possibly describe the ecstasy and hell of addiction, but Joe has succeeded. If you've lived through addiction to any one of his drugs of choice, you'll be transported back to the feelings and emotions you shared with Joe while under their spell. If you've never tried to experience drugs, you will gain a powerful understanding if you take Joe's story to heart. I was amazed at the level of detail that Joe was able to expose to the reader with his beautiful style. I feel that I know so much about this man, but would love to soak in more of his experience and wisdom. Every success story that I come to know, further validates my own story of addiction and recovery, and of finding myself again. I'd love to see this as a movie, but nothing could compare to the vivid images created by Joe's words translated by my own life experiences.
March 2, 2016
When I decided to read this book I had no idea what to expect, but I picked it up and started reading it anyway. At times, this book was hard to read, not because of the vocabulary or the way it was written, it was just hard for me to continue reading it. I would come back to it in a few days and read some more, and I found interest again.
This book, especially at the end, made me examine myself as a person, as a human. From time to time, we will loose ourself and not recognize ourself in the mirror, in our reflection. I read this book at a time when I lost myself and when I was trying to find myself again.
I was originally going to give this book three stars. However, the epilogue made me rethink that choice, because it made me examine who I was as a person, and so I gave this book four stars.
This book, especially at the end, made me examine myself as a person, as a human. From time to time, we will loose ourself and not recognize ourself in the mirror, in our reflection. I read this book at a time when I lost myself and when I was trying to find myself again.
I was originally going to give this book three stars. However, the epilogue made me rethink that choice, because it made me examine who I was as a person, and so I gave this book four stars.
June 7, 2016
The story of an addict finding redemption, a young gay man learning to be proud of himself rather than ashamed, and a young artist/athlete rising to the top of his field in spite of the downward pull of addiction are not new stories, but Putignano tells them eloquently and very movingly. I believe that just about everyone can find something in this book to relate to. His turns of phrase are frequently touching and usually vivid.
March 24, 2016
Incredible book that aligned with my own life on so many levels. Everything the writer felt and thought...I've had those very same thoughts about myself as well. I found it difficult to read at times because of the tears in my eyes. This book (for me) is a story about redemption and hope. Will definitely be rereading it in the near future.
December 29, 2015
Probably the most amazing, bravest and rawest account of a life I have ever read. Joe is the true definition of a fighter, I honestly can't explain or express how much respect and admiration I have for him, this book is an emotional and heartbreaking journey with parts that are very hard to read but to see how he comes through the other end well its nothing but beautiful.
March 10, 2016
An in-depth and insightful view of what it's like to be an addict. It opens your eyes to the world of the addict and why they do what they do. At some points in the book I was tempted to put it down as it seems that it was just a constant stream of addiction followed by recovery but then I realized that is what happens with an addict.
November 29, 2015
Amazing book
This. I'm is an actual account of the struggle and the destruction of Joe Putignano. It is honest, dark, gritty and beautiful. He has worked so hard an continues to work today to help people, just buy the book, it is so worth it.
This. I'm is an actual account of the struggle and the destruction of Joe Putignano. It is honest, dark, gritty and beautiful. He has worked so hard an continues to work today to help people, just buy the book, it is so worth it.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews