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Alcohol Explained
Alcohol Explained is a scientific and factual explanation of how alcohol affects human beings on a chemical, physiological and psychological level.
The writer is a city lawyer with a 25 year drinking problem who has spent years researching the facts about alcohol as detailed in numerous studies from all scientific disciplines. Despite being entirely scientific and factual in nature the book is presented in an accessible and easily understandable format.
For those with an alcohol problem it will explain why they have a problem and what they can do about it. For those who have someone close to them who has an alcohol problem it will help them to understand what that person is going through, how they ended up where they are and what they can do to help them. For those who are unsure whether they have a problem or not it provides firm guidance in this regard. Finally, for everyone else it will provide an interesting insight into a substance that has pervaded our society to such a great extent that it is now an integral part of our culture, and the ‘pub’ a global icon.
The writer is a city lawyer with a 25 year drinking problem who has spent years researching the facts about alcohol as detailed in numerous studies from all scientific disciplines. Despite being entirely scientific and factual in nature the book is presented in an accessible and easily understandable format.
For those with an alcohol problem it will explain why they have a problem and what they can do about it. For those who have someone close to them who has an alcohol problem it will help them to understand what that person is going through, how they ended up where they are and what they can do to help them. For those who are unsure whether they have a problem or not it provides firm guidance in this regard. Finally, for everyone else it will provide an interesting insight into a substance that has pervaded our society to such a great extent that it is now an integral part of our culture, and the ‘pub’ a global icon.
271 pages, Audiobook
First published April 13, 2015
1392 people are currently reading
2981 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 368 reviews
May 12, 2019
IMHO, the best book about alcohol - ever. I found it to be a revelation. Clear, objective, rational description of a subject that many, (and I include myself here), often think about in a skewed, irrational and profoundly unhelpful way. I have an uneasy relationship with alcohol. As a result of reading this book I feel that my mindset has shifted. I am currently not drinking and I believe this will keep me maintaining this position.
William Porter's book is easy to follow, non-judgemental, and has it's feet well and truly on the ground. But, what takes it to another level is the incredible wisdom and insight. As one reads it one finds it hard to believe that this book wasn't written decades ago - it just seems so self-evidently true. Except that we probably never then had the scientific knowledge that he draws upon.
If you have an uneasy relationship with alcohol, i.e. you drink more than you want to, then you simply must read this book. Your quality of life will improve immeasurably. (P.S. the first five chapters are free to sample on his website http://www.alcoholexplained.com )
William Porter's book is easy to follow, non-judgemental, and has it's feet well and truly on the ground. But, what takes it to another level is the incredible wisdom and insight. As one reads it one finds it hard to believe that this book wasn't written decades ago - it just seems so self-evidently true. Except that we probably never then had the scientific knowledge that he draws upon.
If you have an uneasy relationship with alcohol, i.e. you drink more than you want to, then you simply must read this book. Your quality of life will improve immeasurably. (P.S. the first five chapters are free to sample on his website http://www.alcoholexplained.com )
May 30, 2018
This should be everyone's next book
I wish I had read a book like this years ago!
I stopped drinking 2 weeks ago and wasn't sure how long it would last,I have previously stopped for 3years and hoped I would at least do as well as that time
I am now confident that I can make my sobriety permanent information is power and this book has all the answers to the questions I couldn't find the answers to in the past 10/10
Wether you have stopped drinking or thinking about it or just want to understand why someone seems unable to control their drinking then this book is a must
I wish I had read a book like this years ago!
I stopped drinking 2 weeks ago and wasn't sure how long it would last,I have previously stopped for 3years and hoped I would at least do as well as that time
I am now confident that I can make my sobriety permanent information is power and this book has all the answers to the questions I couldn't find the answers to in the past 10/10
Wether you have stopped drinking or thinking about it or just want to understand why someone seems unable to control their drinking then this book is a must
September 1, 2024
I developed a problem with chronic drinking since last year, which led to many ruptures in my personal and professional lives. At my worst, I was drinking heavily every single day. With the breakdown that this book provides regarding the ensnaring effects of alcohol, I pondered on my experience chapter by chapter and reflected on how alcohol affects me personally—until I arrived at the end and realized I’d managed to go 11 days without drinking and with zero cravings! I guess that means this book is pretty good lol. Let’s aim for a lifetime now!
April 3, 2019
Worth a read.
I always read self-help books with a critical eye since with self-help it is easy to be overwhelmed by the feeling that a solution is possible while reading, only to find that the author's method does not apply, or is not sufficient in itself, and this is how I read this book. I have read quite a few books on alcohol and addiction, I have used different services myself (from counseling to NHS, to hypnosis to to a year in AA), and while I can't be 100% sure, I have a feeling people need to be ready somehow to stop drinking before they do, so this book may not 'work' for everyone but having it might be good so you can go back to it. Before buying this (on kindle, considerably cheaper), I read the first chapters on his website for free. He also has a QA on Facebook if you're interested. This book was recommended to me by an NHS mental health worker. Full disclaimer I am not and never was physically addicted to alcohol, but was physically unwell and extremely dependent, drinking spirits most days, with a 15 year long history of problem drinking when I read this.
I'll be short about what worked in this book. First it is repetitive, and why it's got zero style and limited vocabulary, I wouldn't say it is badly written. This book is hugely accessible. I'm sorry healthcare professionals, but when we're low on ourselves and over using booze, we want to read something like what William Porter wrote, regardless of education level. When reading a book it is easy to forget what we've just read as we go through the chapters, so for the author to constantly reference what he has said before, or what he will explain later, is helpful. It's lazy to dismiss this book as over simple when it is not. It actually it packs quite a lot.
Secondly, at some point the author implies that people spent years trying to work out why they're miserable in counseling when the answer is in their alcohol use. Fine, after reading the book I see his point, but I had to take this with a pinch of salt. It's a lot more complex than that.
Now, what worked for me: 'Alcohol Explained' educates the reader without trying to control her, something that I rarely felt while reading or seeing professionals before. I'm sorry but often when using NHS or other substance misuse services, there's a feeling the professionals are gatekeepers of the knowledge, and despite the patient-centered culture, the approach is still very much a top-down one. Same goes with reading books by experts or journalists there's often a bias, or an overindulgent academic tone. On the same level, a people run group like AA implies a consequent, quasi lifelong reliance on AA itself, as well as its dogma (or program). Not for me.
'Alcohol Explained' doesn't sugar coat, but it doesn't patronize the reader or scare him into compliance; what I mean is it empowers and informs the reader and gives her the credit to succeed or fail. I felt fairly safe and held when reading this book, and I appreciated the author shared about his experiences sparsely as to not dominate, but enough for me to trust him. Yes some of the knowledge in it might be refuted later, so? I'm hoping I'll have done more of my own research or sought help from other sources by then.
Even though the author uses some of the 'this method will work if you follow' rhetoric, I never believed he was my saviour. It's far from perfect and I had to roll my eyes a few times but that's a sign I can be critical and still give his advice a go.
A side note: before any healthcare professional out there feels attacked, I am well aware they'll have studied for years, and may be overworked or suffering from carer's fatigue, and also actually do help people, not to mention being, unlike a book author, held accountable via duty of care if something happens to one of their patient. I am just saying stepping away from being the patient who's bounced between services or the victim of a 'disease' can actually go well.
Yes the book implies calling alcoholism a disease is problematic (a fair point he's not the only one making), but guys calm down he's not going on a campaign to get it scrapped off either (and he could, he's a lawyer). He also specifies the reader should go see their doctor if physically addicted, before stopping.
'Alcohol Explained' gave me solid info I, as a problem drinker and patient / service user, had never had access to before, and touched upon a few hard truths in the social and emotional realms. Just had to take it with a grain of salt when needed, and be patient with the repetitive tone. What I am mainly saying here, is that I loved this book and it's helped me deal with my Achilles' heel, which is experiencing cravings probably for the rest of my life. I wanted to explain why I loved this book. The rest is up to you, it's a free country.
I always read self-help books with a critical eye since with self-help it is easy to be overwhelmed by the feeling that a solution is possible while reading, only to find that the author's method does not apply, or is not sufficient in itself, and this is how I read this book. I have read quite a few books on alcohol and addiction, I have used different services myself (from counseling to NHS, to hypnosis to to a year in AA), and while I can't be 100% sure, I have a feeling people need to be ready somehow to stop drinking before they do, so this book may not 'work' for everyone but having it might be good so you can go back to it. Before buying this (on kindle, considerably cheaper), I read the first chapters on his website for free. He also has a QA on Facebook if you're interested. This book was recommended to me by an NHS mental health worker. Full disclaimer I am not and never was physically addicted to alcohol, but was physically unwell and extremely dependent, drinking spirits most days, with a 15 year long history of problem drinking when I read this.
I'll be short about what worked in this book. First it is repetitive, and why it's got zero style and limited vocabulary, I wouldn't say it is badly written. This book is hugely accessible. I'm sorry healthcare professionals, but when we're low on ourselves and over using booze, we want to read something like what William Porter wrote, regardless of education level. When reading a book it is easy to forget what we've just read as we go through the chapters, so for the author to constantly reference what he has said before, or what he will explain later, is helpful. It's lazy to dismiss this book as over simple when it is not. It actually it packs quite a lot.
Secondly, at some point the author implies that people spent years trying to work out why they're miserable in counseling when the answer is in their alcohol use. Fine, after reading the book I see his point, but I had to take this with a pinch of salt. It's a lot more complex than that.
Now, what worked for me: 'Alcohol Explained' educates the reader without trying to control her, something that I rarely felt while reading or seeing professionals before. I'm sorry but often when using NHS or other substance misuse services, there's a feeling the professionals are gatekeepers of the knowledge, and despite the patient-centered culture, the approach is still very much a top-down one. Same goes with reading books by experts or journalists there's often a bias, or an overindulgent academic tone. On the same level, a people run group like AA implies a consequent, quasi lifelong reliance on AA itself, as well as its dogma (or program). Not for me.
'Alcohol Explained' doesn't sugar coat, but it doesn't patronize the reader or scare him into compliance; what I mean is it empowers and informs the reader and gives her the credit to succeed or fail. I felt fairly safe and held when reading this book, and I appreciated the author shared about his experiences sparsely as to not dominate, but enough for me to trust him. Yes some of the knowledge in it might be refuted later, so? I'm hoping I'll have done more of my own research or sought help from other sources by then.
Even though the author uses some of the 'this method will work if you follow' rhetoric, I never believed he was my saviour. It's far from perfect and I had to roll my eyes a few times but that's a sign I can be critical and still give his advice a go.
A side note: before any healthcare professional out there feels attacked, I am well aware they'll have studied for years, and may be overworked or suffering from carer's fatigue, and also actually do help people, not to mention being, unlike a book author, held accountable via duty of care if something happens to one of their patient. I am just saying stepping away from being the patient who's bounced between services or the victim of a 'disease' can actually go well.
Yes the book implies calling alcoholism a disease is problematic (a fair point he's not the only one making), but guys calm down he's not going on a campaign to get it scrapped off either (and he could, he's a lawyer). He also specifies the reader should go see their doctor if physically addicted, before stopping.
'Alcohol Explained' gave me solid info I, as a problem drinker and patient / service user, had never had access to before, and touched upon a few hard truths in the social and emotional realms. Just had to take it with a grain of salt when needed, and be patient with the repetitive tone. What I am mainly saying here, is that I loved this book and it's helped me deal with my Achilles' heel, which is experiencing cravings probably for the rest of my life. I wanted to explain why I loved this book. The rest is up to you, it's a free country.
November 20, 2025
I have to say, this book was a big eye-opener for me.
I’ve always felt like we’ve never really had the full story on how alcohol affects us. There’s so much conflicting information out there - one day you hear red wine is good for your heart, and the next day it’s linked to cancer. It’s exhausting trying to keep track of whether you should feel guilty or virtuous with a drink in your hand.
For years, my wife would enjoy a glass of red wine, beautifully convinced that it was the key to a longer, healthier life. I don’t blame her - who hasn’t heard this trope? And yet, this book cuts through all that noise. This book dives straight into the facts, without the glossy PR spin that so often clouds the conversation around alcohol.
And believe me, coming from someone who’s spent a lot of time in the marketing world, I’ve seen firsthand how corporate giants can sell us on the idea that harmful, addictive substances are good for us. Think caffeine, smoking, sugar, and social media - it’s all part of the same profit-at-any-cost machine.
What I found particularly refreshing about Porter’s approach is that it’s straightforward and methodical. He lays out exactly how alcohol affects our minds and bodies, and he does it in a way that’s easy to understand. This is not one of those overly academic books where you feel like you need a degree in biology to follow along.
Instead, Porter breaks down the effects of alcohol into digestible parts: how it impacts our mood, the way it alters brain chemistry, and the lasting physical effects it has on our bodies over time. It’s like he’s sitting down with you, explaining in a calm, rational way how alcohol works - no scare tactics, just the facts.
That said, I think it’s important to understand Porter’s vantage point. He’s a recovering alcoholic who’s been through some seriously rough times with drinking. His experience is deeply personal, and that shows in the book. On the one hand, that’s great - he knows what he’s talking about. But on the other hand, it’s also important to remember that this book is filtered through his own experiences and beliefs about alcohol.
If you’re looking for a meticulously researched, footnoted academic book that cites every study, this isn’t it. It’s more of a synthesis of everything Porter’s learned along his journey, which, while valuable, should be taken with a grain of salt.
This book’s lack of citations or specific references to studies might frustrate some readers. This is particularly true for people who are looking for a more scientific or data-driven exploration of alcohol’s effects. It’s clear that Porter has done his research, but without references, it’s hard to know where exactly his information is coming from, and that can feel a bit limiting.
One thing that stood out to me is how Porter explains the addictive nature of alcohol. He goes into detail about why people crave that first drink and why it’s so hard to stop once you’ve started. His explanation of the “alcohol cycle” really resonated with me - it made a lot of sense in terms of how drinking often starts as a way to relax or unwind but quickly becomes a crutch. He describes how alcohol temporarily relieves anxiety but ultimately exacerbates it in the long run, which is something I think many people who drink casually don’t fully grasp.
I found the book incredibly useful. Porter’s style is concise and to the point - he doesn’t waste your time with fluff, and you walk away from each chapter feeling like you’ve learned something concrete. He’s not trying to convert you into quitting alcohol cold turkey or shame you for drinking. He’s just laying out the facts as he sees them, and you can take that information and apply it however you choose.
This book’s lack of citations makes it far from a perfect book, but I found it quite valuable. For me, it was a refreshing and much-needed rundown of how alcohol really works. It’s rare to find a book that cuts through all the corporate messaging and gives you a clear, honest picture of what’s really going on. And while you should definitely keep in mind that it’s one man’s perspective, it’s a perspective worth considering. It certainly got me thinking.
I’ve always felt like we’ve never really had the full story on how alcohol affects us. There’s so much conflicting information out there - one day you hear red wine is good for your heart, and the next day it’s linked to cancer. It’s exhausting trying to keep track of whether you should feel guilty or virtuous with a drink in your hand.
For years, my wife would enjoy a glass of red wine, beautifully convinced that it was the key to a longer, healthier life. I don’t blame her - who hasn’t heard this trope? And yet, this book cuts through all that noise. This book dives straight into the facts, without the glossy PR spin that so often clouds the conversation around alcohol.
And believe me, coming from someone who’s spent a lot of time in the marketing world, I’ve seen firsthand how corporate giants can sell us on the idea that harmful, addictive substances are good for us. Think caffeine, smoking, sugar, and social media - it’s all part of the same profit-at-any-cost machine.
What I found particularly refreshing about Porter’s approach is that it’s straightforward and methodical. He lays out exactly how alcohol affects our minds and bodies, and he does it in a way that’s easy to understand. This is not one of those overly academic books where you feel like you need a degree in biology to follow along.
Instead, Porter breaks down the effects of alcohol into digestible parts: how it impacts our mood, the way it alters brain chemistry, and the lasting physical effects it has on our bodies over time. It’s like he’s sitting down with you, explaining in a calm, rational way how alcohol works - no scare tactics, just the facts.
That said, I think it’s important to understand Porter’s vantage point. He’s a recovering alcoholic who’s been through some seriously rough times with drinking. His experience is deeply personal, and that shows in the book. On the one hand, that’s great - he knows what he’s talking about. But on the other hand, it’s also important to remember that this book is filtered through his own experiences and beliefs about alcohol.
If you’re looking for a meticulously researched, footnoted academic book that cites every study, this isn’t it. It’s more of a synthesis of everything Porter’s learned along his journey, which, while valuable, should be taken with a grain of salt.
This book’s lack of citations or specific references to studies might frustrate some readers. This is particularly true for people who are looking for a more scientific or data-driven exploration of alcohol’s effects. It’s clear that Porter has done his research, but without references, it’s hard to know where exactly his information is coming from, and that can feel a bit limiting.
One thing that stood out to me is how Porter explains the addictive nature of alcohol. He goes into detail about why people crave that first drink and why it’s so hard to stop once you’ve started. His explanation of the “alcohol cycle” really resonated with me - it made a lot of sense in terms of how drinking often starts as a way to relax or unwind but quickly becomes a crutch. He describes how alcohol temporarily relieves anxiety but ultimately exacerbates it in the long run, which is something I think many people who drink casually don’t fully grasp.
I found the book incredibly useful. Porter’s style is concise and to the point - he doesn’t waste your time with fluff, and you walk away from each chapter feeling like you’ve learned something concrete. He’s not trying to convert you into quitting alcohol cold turkey or shame you for drinking. He’s just laying out the facts as he sees them, and you can take that information and apply it however you choose.
This book’s lack of citations makes it far from a perfect book, but I found it quite valuable. For me, it was a refreshing and much-needed rundown of how alcohol really works. It’s rare to find a book that cuts through all the corporate messaging and gives you a clear, honest picture of what’s really going on. And while you should definitely keep in mind that it’s one man’s perspective, it’s a perspective worth considering. It certainly got me thinking.
November 4, 2019
Pins the tail on the donkey.
There were so many times where I nodded my head in agreement when reading this book. It quite literally explains exactly what alcohol does. I'm grateful for having read this book and I believe all the people should read it. Very informative, enlightening, and pleasing to read. Thank you William Porter.
There were so many times where I nodded my head in agreement when reading this book. It quite literally explains exactly what alcohol does. I'm grateful for having read this book and I believe all the people should read it. Very informative, enlightening, and pleasing to read. Thank you William Porter.
January 26, 2020
The science of alcohol explained very clearly with hope for getting sober at the end.
September 22, 2019
Fantastic Book
Wow, what an interesting book. I wish they could teach this in schools to all the teenagers who think Alcohol makes them cool. This is my favorite book by far on Understanding what Alcohol REALLY does to you and we all know, Knowledge is Power. It’s written in such a way that as informative as it is, it’s not boring.In fact If I had read this 20 years ago , I doubt I never have even picked up a drink.. This book will help you understand what Alcohol is and how much your life will improve once you quit it .Good Luck , this book will change your life, I promise. From some one who knows first hand .Thank you Mr Porter
Wow, what an interesting book. I wish they could teach this in schools to all the teenagers who think Alcohol makes them cool. This is my favorite book by far on Understanding what Alcohol REALLY does to you and we all know, Knowledge is Power. It’s written in such a way that as informative as it is, it’s not boring.In fact If I had read this 20 years ago , I doubt I never have even picked up a drink.. This book will help you understand what Alcohol is and how much your life will improve once you quit it .Good Luck , this book will change your life, I promise. From some one who knows first hand .Thank you Mr Porter
April 8, 2021
This book is mostly based on the personal experiences of the author and does not feel like written by a professional. It is not based on scientific studies or evidence backed up by studies carried out. it's not much of a medical guide. It's repetitive and not very well researched still a good enough book .
The explains explains a bit of alcohol chemistry: how it's poisonous and human body is naturally repulsed by it. Alcohol itself doesn't taste good; it's toxic in pure form and can be lethal (if 'taste' is the reason to drink). The taste of alcoholic drinks comes from strong flavors added to it. Alcohol doesn't "relieve" frustration, anger and misery; it just anesthetizes our body systems for a while and makes the situation far worse when effects of alcohol start to wear off. Why a drinker might crave alcohol and get addicted to it. There's a guide to stages of alcoholism and how to stop drinking in the end.
I could get some information about the subject though it would've been better of there was some scientific/medical evidence included ( since I wasn't reading it for 'self-help' purposes). I cannoy say if or how effective/helpful a guide is this book for alcoholics to stop drinking. Though it would be a good and somewhat enlightening read for people who are tempted to drink as the reality is not as glamorous and enjoyable as it may seem in TV, movies & pictures on social media.
There were some points that required medical/biological evidence.
For example, he writes that our body fulfills a certain nutrient's deficiency by making us fancy some foods (containing that nutrient) over others. I haven't heard or read that in any book before and the author doesn't tell if it's a theory or there's some sort of biological evidence to support it.
2.5 stars
The explains explains a bit of alcohol chemistry: how it's poisonous and human body is naturally repulsed by it. Alcohol itself doesn't taste good; it's toxic in pure form and can be lethal (if 'taste' is the reason to drink). The taste of alcoholic drinks comes from strong flavors added to it. Alcohol doesn't "relieve" frustration, anger and misery; it just anesthetizes our body systems for a while and makes the situation far worse when effects of alcohol start to wear off. Why a drinker might crave alcohol and get addicted to it. There's a guide to stages of alcoholism and how to stop drinking in the end.
I could get some information about the subject though it would've been better of there was some scientific/medical evidence included ( since I wasn't reading it for 'self-help' purposes). I cannoy say if or how effective/helpful a guide is this book for alcoholics to stop drinking. Though it would be a good and somewhat enlightening read for people who are tempted to drink as the reality is not as glamorous and enjoyable as it may seem in TV, movies & pictures on social media.
There were some points that required medical/biological evidence.
For example, he writes that our body fulfills a certain nutrient's deficiency by making us fancy some foods (containing that nutrient) over others. I haven't heard or read that in any book before and the author doesn't tell if it's a theory or there's some sort of biological evidence to support it.
2.5 stars
January 23, 2018
A breath of fresh air
This book was fantastic. It was an easy read and full of well documented, irrefutable, scientific information. It had eye opening information that helped me understand why I was drinking, and provided me with facts that I needed to see alcohol for what it was, a poison that hurts our mind and body. If you question your alcohol intake or simply want an easy to read insight into alcohol, and it’s addictiveness you cannot go wrong with Alcohol Explained.
This book was fantastic. It was an easy read and full of well documented, irrefutable, scientific information. It had eye opening information that helped me understand why I was drinking, and provided me with facts that I needed to see alcohol for what it was, a poison that hurts our mind and body. If you question your alcohol intake or simply want an easy to read insight into alcohol, and it’s addictiveness you cannot go wrong with Alcohol Explained.
April 15, 2018
Great read, well explained with easy to understand anecdotal and scientific evidence
It really makes you think to yourself "Why do I drink again?"
My one and only gripe was the lack of references to support the information or for further reading
It really makes you think to yourself "Why do I drink again?"
My one and only gripe was the lack of references to support the information or for further reading
April 25, 2018
Badly written and very repetitive.
I chose this book as it seemed to have good reviews and I have recently stopped drinking. I thought it might explain some of the reasons why people drink too much and why it is so hard to stop. To some extent it did that and there are a couple of little gems of information in there but I was left very disappointed.
I can tell that the author is not a professional writer. His use of language is highly repetitive (he uses the work embibed so many times it grated as I read it), and the structure of the book is just awful. The chapters are too short and he repeats himself over and over again to the point of nauseum.
As a healthcare professional I find some of his science inaccurate, and I can tell this is written by someone with no knowledge of the subject matter beyond his own experience. This would be fine if he actually wrote about his experiences rather than the odd fleeting comments about having kids or being in the armed forces. He most likely has an interesting tale to convey so why not tell it?
He should have either worked in collaboration with an expert to back up his ideas properly or wrote this book from an autobiographical stance.
It took me just an evening to read, but I felt the useful information could've filled a pamphlet and the rest was just repetitive wadding.
I chose this book as it seemed to have good reviews and I have recently stopped drinking. I thought it might explain some of the reasons why people drink too much and why it is so hard to stop. To some extent it did that and there are a couple of little gems of information in there but I was left very disappointed.
I can tell that the author is not a professional writer. His use of language is highly repetitive (he uses the work embibed so many times it grated as I read it), and the structure of the book is just awful. The chapters are too short and he repeats himself over and over again to the point of nauseum.
As a healthcare professional I find some of his science inaccurate, and I can tell this is written by someone with no knowledge of the subject matter beyond his own experience. This would be fine if he actually wrote about his experiences rather than the odd fleeting comments about having kids or being in the armed forces. He most likely has an interesting tale to convey so why not tell it?
He should have either worked in collaboration with an expert to back up his ideas properly or wrote this book from an autobiographical stance.
It took me just an evening to read, but I felt the useful information could've filled a pamphlet and the rest was just repetitive wadding.
November 19, 2018
If alcohol is a problem for you
If alcohol is a problem for you and it probably is otherwise you wouldn’t be reading the reviews of this book and doing research on problem drinking then you REALLY need to read this book. It will explain to you in no uncertain terms why you drink to excess and why and how to stop PERMANENTLY. This process works.
If alcohol is a problem for you and it probably is otherwise you wouldn’t be reading the reviews of this book and doing research on problem drinking then you REALLY need to read this book. It will explain to you in no uncertain terms why you drink to excess and why and how to stop PERMANENTLY. This process works.
January 12, 2020
Fantastic!
I’ve read dozens of books on alcohol and this is one of my favorites. Explains everything and then some. Just what I needed. Could it be what you need?
I’ve read dozens of books on alcohol and this is one of my favorites. Explains everything and then some. Just what I needed. Could it be what you need?
November 16, 2019
WOW
This book was remarkable. I have been sober for several years but never understand alcohol and it's effects on the body, especially the mind. It answered so many questions I had. I have new hope now and new tools to stay sober forever!
This book was remarkable. I have been sober for several years but never understand alcohol and it's effects on the body, especially the mind. It answered so many questions I had. I have new hope now and new tools to stay sober forever!
January 24, 2019
Very informative and a great read.
Would definitely recommend ! It's helped me stay focused by understanding the mental and physical effects of alcohol. Won't be drinking alcohol again, I just wish I was strong enough earlier in my life to realize how it takes hold of you!! Thank you!!!
Would definitely recommend ! It's helped me stay focused by understanding the mental and physical effects of alcohol. Won't be drinking alcohol again, I just wish I was strong enough earlier in my life to realize how it takes hold of you!! Thank you!!!
August 25, 2025
Eye opening! There were things about alcohol that I had no clue about. It’ll really make you reconsider picking up that drink!
July 7, 2018
Don't believe everything you read
I have read many books on alcoholism and this book is so full of inaccurate information that it robbed the few truths the author actually presented. It is largely based on the author's opinion and not on medical fact or studies. One of his chapters basically states that no one is a social drinker but either those that choose not to drink and those that drink too much. He also states that alcoholism is not a disease. Absolute rubbish. I work in the medical field and have seen patients who have 3 drinks a night go into DTs three days into their hospital stay . I am embarrassed to have paid for this book. The misinformation in this book can easily be rebuked through just a brief internet search on alcoholism.
I have read many books on alcoholism and this book is so full of inaccurate information that it robbed the few truths the author actually presented. It is largely based on the author's opinion and not on medical fact or studies. One of his chapters basically states that no one is a social drinker but either those that choose not to drink and those that drink too much. He also states that alcoholism is not a disease. Absolute rubbish. I work in the medical field and have seen patients who have 3 drinks a night go into DTs three days into their hospital stay . I am embarrassed to have paid for this book. The misinformation in this book can easily be rebuked through just a brief internet search on alcoholism.
March 5, 2018
Great read for anyone trying to give up alcohol.
This book looks at the facts and processes of what happens when we drink alcohol. It doesn't do this by preaching but simply by stating the physical and mental stages we go through.
This book looks at the facts and processes of what happens when we drink alcohol. It doesn't do this by preaching but simply by stating the physical and mental stages we go through.
May 24, 2017
What I have been searching for
Have been trying to understand the alcohol trap for a long time. The Best explanation I have found so far.
Have been trying to understand the alcohol trap for a long time. The Best explanation I have found so far.
September 7, 2019
Life changing
Very true. It is well worth reading this book whether you have a problem or not. It will be life changing
Very true. It is well worth reading this book whether you have a problem or not. It will be life changing
October 2, 2019
Great book to read if you want to understand how alcohol actually impacts your life, body and mind. It was a huge help in my initial sobriety.
December 26, 2019
Connecting the dots...
This book helped me immensely! I was already sober curious but having facts explained finally connected the dots! And, helped me to be alcohol free!
This book helped me immensely! I was already sober curious but having facts explained finally connected the dots! And, helped me to be alcohol free!
June 14, 2018
Good, matter of fact, clear headed approach to alcohol addiction.
I like this book. I’ve read a few quit lits and this one is in the ‘straight talking’, fact-based category. I didn’t like the fact that I kept coming across poor grammar and incorrect words like where loose was usedinstead of lose. There were quite a lot of errors. While it could be pedantic of me, poor English makes the overall message less valid in my mind. Next edition printed, this should be nailed. I am happy to take on the job of annotating it for you Mr Author :) Let me know.
Apart from that (and the editing wasn’t so poor I had to stop reading), the points are very good. They are logical, clear, fairly well explained and for anyone who wants a no-nonsense fact based book, this is the one. It reminds me of the Alan Carr book on smoking which I read when I was quitting cigarettes 15 years ago. That book contributed to my now 13 years smoke free and I have no doubt that this book has given my will to stop drinking, further fortification.
I like this book. I’ve read a few quit lits and this one is in the ‘straight talking’, fact-based category. I didn’t like the fact that I kept coming across poor grammar and incorrect words like where loose was usedinstead of lose. There were quite a lot of errors. While it could be pedantic of me, poor English makes the overall message less valid in my mind. Next edition printed, this should be nailed. I am happy to take on the job of annotating it for you Mr Author :) Let me know.
Apart from that (and the editing wasn’t so poor I had to stop reading), the points are very good. They are logical, clear, fairly well explained and for anyone who wants a no-nonsense fact based book, this is the one. It reminds me of the Alan Carr book on smoking which I read when I was quitting cigarettes 15 years ago. That book contributed to my now 13 years smoke free and I have no doubt that this book has given my will to stop drinking, further fortification.
February 7, 2020
Concise, informative, encouraging, empowering and extremely helpful. Helps break away from the mistaken belief, widely held in AA, that we are hopeless addicts who must forever hold the title of alcoholic and can't recover without a god or yes, you guessed it, AA.
August 25, 2018
Must Read for anyone questioning his or her drinking
Scientifically and psychologically destroys all myths about the benefits of alcohol consumption. Also gives tools to enable sobriety for a healthy meaningful life
Scientifically and psychologically destroys all myths about the benefits of alcohol consumption. Also gives tools to enable sobriety for a healthy meaningful life
February 7, 2019
Thought provoking
Toying with the idea of sobriety for a long time. Although AA has helped many it does not appeal to me. Mr Porters insights have informed me rather significantly. Well worth a read for the sober curious.
Toying with the idea of sobriety for a long time. Although AA has helped many it does not appeal to me. Mr Porters insights have informed me rather significantly. Well worth a read for the sober curious.
March 3, 2018
Not just how but why
If you not only want or need to quit but also want to understand what alcohol does to your brain and body then this is the book.
If you not only want or need to quit but also want to understand what alcohol does to your brain and body then this is the book.
November 17, 2018
Excellent
Best quit lit I've read. I think as a man this really spoke to me and as a binge drinker too. Must read
Best quit lit I've read. I think as a man this really spoke to me and as a binge drinker too. Must read
October 13, 2019
Great read
This book delves deep into what alcohol is all about and what it really is.would recommend everyone reads this it at any stage in their lifes .
This book delves deep into what alcohol is all about and what it really is.would recommend everyone reads this it at any stage in their lifes .
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