Secrets of Addiction has finally unlocked the secrets to a complex subject!, March 25, 2014
“What a wonderful idea! Barbara Zito and Arthur Tomie have created a refreshing, effective and entertaining method for delivering the complex science behind addiction that is easily understandable for everyone. The short story format developed is the perfect way to introduce the topic of addiction to adolescent, college student and educator alike. This unique and fun narrative is ideal for anyone struggling to understand the consequences of losing free will and self control due to addiction.”
An Addicted Loved One, March 20, 2014
“The Tail of the Raccoon has been particularly meaningful and enlightening to my experience with a loved one that suffers from drug addiction. The fresh yet eloquent delivery of the disconnect between action and intention has provided me a sense of empowerment and peace in a situation where I previously felt helpless. While the wisdom shared in this charming short story has not eliminated the hardships that accompany addiction, its new perspective has provided comfort. I would highly recommend The Tail of the Raccoon to those struggling to understand their own addictive behaviors or those of a loved one.”
Thanks for the book!!!, March 7, 2014
“This book was an extremely useful tool in my learning about addiction. I felt as if I’ve learned more by reading this book than I have by any other type of teachings on addiction. The difference between action and intention demonstrated metaphorically by Dr.Tomie in this novel was by far the most helpful way to learn of addiction.”
A poignant narrative on the nature of addiction, February 28, 2014
“Ms Zito has astoundingly accomplished distilling the complexities behind the root causes of addictive behavior into a very informative, and equally as important, accessible narrative. The Tail of the Raccoon represents an important step in educating children on the science behind addiction, and it’s use of clever metaphor merits emulation from the scientific community as a model for connecting with younger audiences.”
Great for Teachers, Parents and Counselors, February 26, 2014
“Working in the public school and watching the struggles of addiction led me to this terrific tale and scientific information. Parents and teachers alike will benefit from this amazing
story. It is both an entertaining story and a lesson on the causes of addiction. If you have a child, this story can help you open up a conversation about drugs and why it is so important to avoid them.”
Brilliant story in under 50 pages., February 25, 2014
“The book is a fantastic and succinct commentary on an exceedingly misunderstood topic – addiction. Often it’s easy to see addicts as making a conscious choice every time they abuse things like alcohol, and Tail of the Raccoon brilliantly uses characters that one can relate to prove otherwise. Given the widespread and often misunderstood nature of addiction, it makes this book even more important for it’s easy-to-understand insight on human behavior.”
Fascinating idea, February 12, 2014
“The scientific short story is a unique format that hopefully catches on. This one illustrates a cutting edge idea in the neuroscience of addiction. Lots of studies being done now on sign-tracking in labs across the country. Looking forward to the next installment!”
Important topic, February 9, 2014
“This story is a must read for both those interested in addiction and involved in child raising. Adults will be surprised and rewarded with insights into self-destructive behaviour. Children will be introduced to a complex topic in a non-threatening manner. Rarely does a children’s story contribute such profound understanding. Adult and child alike will be captivated by this well-written, worthwhile read.”
Powerful, Truthful, February 7, 2014
“I have experience with addiction personally and have done homework on the phenomenon of the disease of addiction and alcoholism which grips people in the United States and around the world. This simple children’s story does a phenomenal job of illustrating what happens to a using addict who has become “powerless,” having lost the ability to stop using. It also explains the clear insanity of using and relapse: the addict who, with a life in shambles or after a period of abstinence, recovery, and good living, can be lured back into addiction by a simple “trigger” (in this story’s case, the wood). The power of a drug to so compel an addict or alcoholic to return to the misery and destruction of addiction time and time again cannot be explained with logic. Arthur Tomie and his colleagues have been therefore exploring the psychological causes that lead to this irrational behavior, and sign tracking is not only the best explanation I’ve yet heard, but also a phenomenon which I identify with from personal experience. I applaud the publishing of this series and encourage parents, especially those with addiction or alcoholism in the family, to read the stories to their children. Complete abstinence, avoidance of triggers (people, places, and things the addict/alcoholic used with/at), and a support network of other addicts/alcoholics who understand what it’s like to be pulled towards an object that will, and has previously, destroy their lives, seems to currently be the only means of escaping this behavior. I encourage anyone with a problem with addiction to also read this story, and to seek recovery. There are fellowships and support groups across the world that can help people escape the misery and terror of addiction – notably, 12-step fellowships. People in the grips of addiction can get the rings on their tails back, and keep them.”
An essential educational read, February 6, 2014
“The Tail of the Raccoon is wonderfully tailored to younger populations as a promising source of knowledge as well as a tool for early intervention about the transition into problem drinking and substance abuse. After reading this scientific short story, I feel this holds much promise for positive change for addiction awareness for a wide age range.”