Craving: Why We Can’t Seem to Get Enough

In this thought-provoking volume, Manejwala—an M.D. and former medical director for the Hazelden Foundation, which provides addiction treatment—addresses the physiological roots of cravings and the role they play in alcoholism and drug dependency. (His use of the word “tricked” to describe what happens to people who succumb to temptation belies his position on addiction being more complicated than a simple choice.) The author lucidly explains the neurological changes that occur when cravings give way to addiction, and he offers practical ways to deal with and resist temptation, from getting involved in a community of folks struggling with similar issues to inventorying one’s behavior and finding an accountability partner. All advice is proffered sans judgment, and his suggestions are frequently wise: “You should ‘fail’ as many times as you need to in order to succeed.” In addition to generalized guidance of this sort, Manejwala also provides substance-specific tips for kicking a habit, whether your vice is smoking, eating chocolate, gambling, or compulsively using the Internet. A handy concluding appendix illuminates the “gap” between 12-step programs and cognitive therapy so readers can better understand which solutions might suit their needs. (May)