This series of intimate and penetrating portraits of male addicts provides a unique window on how men relate to drugs and alcohol -- and why so many are drawn to these substances. Representing the full spectrum of American life these tragic histories of a millionaire CEO, a former major league baseball player, a Vietnam war veteran, a gay convict, and others are painful examples of how alcoholism manifests itself in every corner of society. The causes of addiction slowly emerge in a subtle and multifaceted web of factors that show how simplistic the Alcoholics Anonymous and other disease models actually are. It is from these insights and the practicality of treating these men that the author is able to offer new and invaluable advice for devising appropriate treatment strategies.Poignant and deeply moving, Message in a Bottle brings us to a fuller understanding of these men, ourselves, and the world we live in.