Sober Stick Figure: A Memoir

Writer and comedian Tozer shares the story of her struggle with alcohol in this appealing memoir accompanied by quirky stick-figure illustrations. Raised in Pueblo, Colo., where there’s not much to do but “breed and drink,” Tozer is surrounded by alcoholics—she takes her first sip of beer at age seven, when her uncle offers a swig from his bottle. Though she parties with friends in her teens, she does well in high school and college, where she focuses on academics and sports. Craving adventure, she relocates to New York City in 1999. Soon, Tozer is drinking more and more; an overthinker, she loves the way alcohol makes her “not feel,” boosting her confidence and relaxation, especially when she becomes involved in stand-up comedy. But the addiction also leads to self-hatred, risky behavior, blackouts, hangovers, and unhealthy relationships, and she begins to realize that she has a serious problem. Nevertheless, when her father dies after suffering for years from alcoholism and depression, Tozer begins drinking even more. After a move to L.A. and a chance meeting with a producer who is sober, she seeks help and enters a 12-step program where she finds the support she needs to overcome the disease. Readers may be particularly drawn to Tozer’s raw and surprisingly humorous story of addiction and recovery. (June)