Randall Grange, the main character of J. A. Wright’s How to Grow an Addict, is a sensitive and perceptive girl born into the wrong family. Her father is a drunk, insensitive lout. Her mother is, for the most part, too weak to stand up for her, and her older brother, whom she initially idolizes, is a petty, nasty, mean spirited bully.

Randall is earnest, open-hearted and accepting. She tells her story almost as a reporter would, without sentiment or self-pity. The reader develops a deep sympathy for her, and Wright does an excellent job of conveying the addict’s sense of isolation, shame and loss.