The dramatic story of the methamphetamine epidemic of the 1980s as it sweeps the American heartland--a moving, very human account of one community's attempt to battle its way to a brighter future. Crystal meth is widely considered the world's most dangerous drug, but especially so in the small towns of the American heartland. Journalist Reding tells the story of Oelwein, Iowa (pop. 6,159), which, like thousands of other small towns, has been left...

Methamphetamine, or meth, has traditionally been a largely poor, white, rural phenomenon. However, recent laws have been passed restricting the sale of products containing pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient used in over-the-counter cold and allergy medications. As a result, small rural labs have been put out of business, leaving an opportunity for Mexican cartels to move the drug into large urban areas. This program focuses on the city of Atlanta,...

#1 New York Times bestseller

With a New Afterword

"A brilliant, harrowing, heartbreaking, fascinating story, full of beautiful moments and hard-won wisdom. This book will save a lot of lives and heal a lot of hearts." — Anne Lamott

What had happened to my beautiful boy? To our family? What did I do wrong? Those are the wrenching questions that haunted David Sheff's journey

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"Examines the history of methamphetamine, health risks of using the drug, the toll it takes on the lives of users, and what rehabilitation options are available"--Provided by publisher.

This book, with overviews, primary source quotes, and facts and statistics, discusses methamphetamine, a highly addictive stimulant drug that is chemically manufactured from a variety of common household ingredients.

Explores the facts and tales about methamphetamines, including the dangers, addiction, and more.

Elaine Landau examines both the meth epidemic and its social implications. First, she looks at the drug itself: how its history and its many forms shape the problem today, how meth affects the user's body, and how the drug's long-term effects complicate addiction issues. In addition, Landau investigates meth's cost to society, what perils meth labs present to their surroundings, how police and lawmakers are attempting to deal with the problems, and...

Introduces readers to the problems and hazards of using crystal meth, as well as treatment and recovery options.