It's obvious from the opening pages of Cocaine Solutions that the authors, both specialists in addiction treatment, have a solid grasp of their audience. In clear, jargon-free language, they explain and explore the issue of cocaine abuse, a process that's both physically and psychologically addictive. Factual material is accurate, concisely presented, and interspersed with first-person histories that are taut, candid, and expresssive: these are people who are easy to identify with because they are so much like ourselves and our friends. True to its subtitle, the book will appeal equally to cocaine abusers and their families. For the abuser, an "Addict Questionnaire" is included; for relative and close friends, an "Enabling Checklist." Special chapters profile the adolescent cocaine abuser and provide a questionnaire geared to teens.

This isn't a recovery program and it doesn't try to be: the authors recommend seeking outside help and provide a list of treatment centers and programs.