The New Codependency

Lorna Raver's rich vocal personality captures the author's candor and wisdom in this follow-up volume to the classic CODEPENDENT NO MORE. Beattie describes current misconceptions of codependency, then makes observations on how the abuse of multiple substances has changed codependent tendencies. She explores how recovery from addictive behaviors and codependency is about personal responsibility, not blame. Raver delivers the author's simple examples of the difference between controlling behavior and normal behavior, as well as her reminder that behavioral change is often uncomfortable. The author calls this book an "owner's manual" that provides a "roadmap to wellness" that will help listeners turn behavioral deficits into assets. Overall, Raver delivers the author's encouraging remarks with warmth and clarity. Pen and notebook are suggested for quizzes and questionnaires. G.D.W. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine

December 1, 2008
Bestseller Beattie, of Codependent No More fame, revisits the topic she helped introduce more than 15 years ago, armed with more insight and a good deal of new scholarship, revising several old opinions and offering new perspectives on emotional awareness, damaging relationships, and finding genuine mental health in a society so "in touch" that it's run screaming for the pharmaceuticals. Through analogy, quizzes, anecdote and reflective exercises, Beattie promotes careful self-examination, problem-identification and a strategy of surrender, acceptance and processing. Beattie's obvious efforts to improve on her earlier work and wholehearted investment-not to mention timely reminders to seek outside help if needed-illustrate better than any anecdote how she walks the walk, and has important insight for members of the "entitled" generation (lavished with attention by overcompensating parents who were themselves love-starved children of codependency) already used to talking about their feelings, who need a different process to find genuine emotional connection. Though it can be scholarly and repetitive, Beattie's principles and methodology should prove accessible and insightful for most.