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57 pages 1 hour read

Beautiful Boy

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

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David Sheff

Beautiful Boy

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

326

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

California • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Published in 2008, David Sheff’s memoir, Beautiful Boy, explores his experiences of coming to terms with his son’s addiction to methamphetamine. Sheff and his wife Vicki are overjoyed when they have their son, Nic, and, despite their divorce affecting Nic deeply, he grows into an intelligent, passionate child. As Nic enters his teens, his drug use escalates into full-blown addiction, and Sheff struggles with denial and guilt while seeking to help his son, ultimately learning to detach for his own well-being. This book discusses addiction and mental health challenges.

Emotional

Challenging

Melancholic

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.4

101,181 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Beautiful Boy by David Sheff is widely praised for its raw, honest depiction of a father's struggle with his son's addiction. Critics commend Sheff's engaging prose and emotional depth. However, some feel the narrative can be repetitive and overly detailed. Overall, it's a compelling read that provides valuable insights into the impact of addiction on families.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Beautiful Boy?

Readers who would enjoy Beautiful Boy by David Sheff are those interested in memoirs about family struggles, addiction, and resilience. They may also appreciate works like The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and A Million Little Pieces by James Frey, which similarly explore personal and familial turmoil.

4.4

101,181 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

326

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

California • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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