Beautiful Boy

by David Sheff

How did David Sheff's "beautiful boy" become addicted to meth? And why do we care?

Well, he tells a pretty good story of family and addiction. However, he never really convinces the reader that his beautiful boy, Nic, was anything remotely beautiful. His memories of Nic (before meth) seem to be rather idealized. According to his father, Nic was perfect. And then he got hooked on meth. Just like that.

Additionally, Sheff seems obsessed with material things and appearances. All descriptions of his son include clothing brand names. And his assessments of people at various meetings and rehab facilities often include disparaging remarks about their appearances. This was a big turn-off for me.

While I liked the basic story of what happens to a family when someone becomes an addict, I really could not stand the narrator and his son. To me, this book was just a little too self-indulgent.

1/7/09