The book starts right away with an engaging scene. We are
introduced to a man's predicament, with him not really remembering how he got
into that situation. It then methodically pulls back to his past and gives us
some understanding of what he is doing.
It's an easy read and difficult to put down. We get inside
this character's head, justifying his actions and reasoning. The character
shouldn't be likable; he is selfish, as we are told about how he slowly
destroys his life and those around him. But despite all his shortcomings, I
want to read on and, at no point, feel that he is irredeemable. It's not easy,
but I think the author managed to do it.
The level of knowledge about the processes and experiences
convince me that this is a well-research book or told from actual experience.
It's scary to see how one could somehow lose that much control of his life, and
just like every real-life struggle, the cure should start within that person.
If this is non-fiction, I am very happy about the recovery. The character is
fortunate; not everyone has that level of support system, especially
financially. Many would fall back into the abyss because of desperation and
difficulty.
The book opens my eyes to the struggle and difficulty of
getting out of addiction. The book's conclusion is long, but in this case, I
think it's fitting. It's beautifully told and believable. So to whoever is
making an effort, remember your inner praying mantis even if you don't have
that level of support system. You are the first one you should count on.
5 Praying Mantises out of 5 Mission Barcelonas
