"In a useful entry in the growing canon of 'quit lit, ' Charles Knowles blends science and memoir to persuade readers to cut down on alcohol."
--The New York Times Book Review

"This book is illuminating, fascinating and beautifully written. If you've ever had an issue with drink and asked yourself 'why me?' then this book is for you."
--Clare Pooley, best-selling author of The Sober Diaries and The Authenticity Project

"Written by a surgeon and academic, there can be no finer accolade in understanding Why We Drink Too Much than a work that fuses clinical insight with human vulnerability. The true gift, however, lies in the author's candid sharing of his own drinking story - an experience that was not only addictive but ultimately became deeply problematic. As a recovering alcoholic myself, I can identify with what it takes to recover, just as the author describes his own journey of recovery with honesty, humility and hard-won insight. It is this combination of professional knowledge and personal honesty that makes the book both compelling and compassionate."
--Jackie Malton, author, TV script consultant and former senior police officer

"Why We Drink Too Much is a compelling and fascinating exploration of why we drink--and why some of us can't stop. The author lays bare his soul in a raw, honest account of his struggles with alcohol, interwoven with world-class scientific insight into the brain, genetics, and the powerful pull of this drug. A must-read for anyone, especially those seeking to understand the hidden forces that drive us to drink too much."
--Dr. Andrew Jenkinson, author of Why We Eat (Too Much)

"The book digs deep into the relationship with our favorite mind-altering chemical and offers a robust, thorough examination of how alcohol seeped into our lives and the many ways it endangers them. A comprehensive look at the human relationship with alcohol, at a time when many are beginning to question it."
--Kirkus

"The most resonant sections... provide an effective frame through which he unpacks the genetic, environmental, and psychological factors that contribute to addiction and counters myths that alcoholism results from moral weakness or lack of willpower. Readers who are considering reevaluating their relationship with alcohol should take a look."
--Publishers Weekly

"His wide-ranging, informative and accessible book explores the many reasons - psychosocial as well as biological - behind our favorite social lubricant's insidious hold. Interweaving personal stories and scientific research, it's a fascinating read."
--People