Potato Chips for Breakfast: A True Story of Growing Up in an Alchoholic Family

by Cynthia G. Scales

A woman describes her teen-age years as the daughter of two alcoholic parents.

177 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published February 1, 1986

Reviews

[Lady Reezy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is out of print. I twice tried to buy a copy online from Jeff Bezos and the transaction would go through but the book never made it to me, because the sellers must've realized it was no longer in print, and thus rare. My money was refunded, and when I went back to look for another copy, I'd see the same seller had it re-listed for 70 or 80 bucks instead of the $12 I'd paid. So, that was irritating. The third time I found a copy for $15, I actually received it, thankfully.

I read it in one sitting, just now. I'd say it's overwhelming, and it is, but not if you grew up with alcoholic parents. It all felt very familiar to me, regardless of the differences in age and class between myself and the author. Where it is most astute and painfully accurate is in respect to the emotional dynamics of the alcoholic family.

It gets a little preachy at the end, maybe, but it was published in 1986, when I was 5, and when this field of study was still fighting for legitimacy. It's crazy to think how far we've come as a society in respect to our understanding of addiction since then; of course, the current opioid epidemic shows that we have a very long ways yet to go.

Alcoholism is an especially sinister addiction because drinking is so socially acceptable and deeply ingrained in our culture. I'm glad I read this book, and I wish I'd found a copy when I was an adolescent.

[Rox Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book when I was maybe 13yrs old and have been looking for it ever since.. definitely want to read it again!!!

[Kimberly Fleck · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite since the late 80's. An excellent story with important themes.

[Andi H]

Aliyah