David Carr confronts the harrowing realities of his past as an addict and dealer. As a reporter for The New York Times, Carr uses his investigative skills to unearth the buried truths of his own history. Through over 50 interviews with individuals from his past, he reconstructs a narrative more brutal than he had previously acknowledged, examining the cyclical nature of addiction and its profound impact on his life and relationships.

David Carr's memoir is widely regarded as a powerful and honest exploration of addiction and recovery. Critics have praised his journalistic rigor in dissecting his own past, noting the bravery required to confront such difficult memories. The book is often cited for its raw portrayal of the drug trade and its human cost, as well as Carr's unique perspective as both participant and observer. It stands as a significant contribution to the literature of addiction and personal narrative.