The best 21 Drugs books

The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide (2011) is the definitive manual for psychedelic voyagers and those who guide them. Combining original research, personal reports, and shamanistic tradition, it teaches how to create safe and successful psychedelic experiences that facilitate healing, self-discovery, and creativity. 

• Psychedelic voyagers or those curious about psychedelic experiences
• Therapists and psychology professionals interested in psychedelic-assisted therapy
• Anyone seeking healing from trauma, addiction, anxiety, or depression

Dry is a memoir by Augusten Burroughs that chronicles his journey through alcoholism and recovery. With raw honesty and dark humor, Burroughs recounts his downhill spiral into addiction and his time in rehab. He shares the challenges he faced, the friendships he formed, and ultimately, the strength he found to embrace sobriety and rebuild his life.

• Individuals struggling with addiction
• Those interested in personal memoirs and overcoming challenges
• People who want to gain insight into the mind of someone battling with alcoholism

Porno is a novel by Irvine Welsh that follows a group of friends from Edinburgh who get involved in the amateur porn industry. Set ten years after the events of Trainspotting, the book delves into themes of friendship, ambition, and the seedy underbelly of the adult entertainment world. With Welsh's trademark raw and gritty style, Porno offers a provocative and unflinching look at the characters' lives as they navigate their way through the murky waters of the porn industry.

• Readers who enjoyed Irvine Welsh's previous works, such as Trainspotting

• Those interested in gritty, raw, and unapologetic portrayals of urban life

• Individuals who are open-minded and not easily offended by explicit content

Winter's Bone by Daniel Woodrell is a gripping novel set in the rural Ozarks. It follows 16-year-old Ree Dolly as she embarks on a dangerous quest to find her missing father, who has put their home at risk by using it as collateral for his bail bond. With a stark and atmospheric writing style, Woodrell delves into the harsh realities of poverty, family, and survival in a tight-knit community.

• Readers who enjoy dark and gritty stories set in rural America

• Those interested in exploring the complexities of family and community

• People who appreciate rich and atmospheric writing that brings a setting to life

Sharp Objects is a psychological thriller by Gillian Flynn that delves into the dark and twisted mind of its protagonist, journalist Camille Preaker. Assigned to cover a series of murders in her hometown, Camille is forced to confront her own troubled past and unravel the secrets that have haunted her family for years. With its gripping narrative and shocking revelations, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

• Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers
• Those interested in complex and flawed female protagonists
• People who appreciate dark and atmospheric storytelling

The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch is a mind-bending science fiction novel by Philip K. Dick. Set in a future where Earth is ravaged by climate change, it follows the story of a group of colonists on Mars who become embroiled in a dangerous game involving a mysterious figure named Palmer Eldritch and a drug that blurs the lines between reality and illusion. As the boundaries of perception are tested, the novel explores themes of identity, power, and the nature of existence.

• Science fiction enthusiasts who enjoy mind-bending and thought-provoking narratives

• Readers interested in exploring themes of reality, perception, and identity

• Those who appreciate complex and multi-layered storytelling that challenges conventional norms

Killing Pablo is a gripping non-fiction book by Mark Bowden that chronicles the hunt for and eventual death of infamous Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. Through extensive research and interviews with key players, Bowden provides a detailed account of the operations carried out by the Colombian government and the United States to bring down one of the most powerful and dangerous criminals in history.

• Readers who are interested in true crime and the story of Pablo Escobar

• People who enjoy investigative journalism and in-depth reporting

• Those who want to understand the complexities of the war on drugs and its impact on society

Less Than Zero is a novel by Bret Easton Ellis that delves into the dark and nihilistic world of wealthy Los Angeles teenagers. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Clay, the book explores themes of drug abuse, apathy, and the emptiness of a materialistic society. It offers a chilling portrayal of a generation lost in a world devoid of genuine connections and meaning.

• Readers who enjoy dark and gritty narratives

• Individuals interested in exploring the excesses and emptiness of 1980s Los Angeles

• Those who appreciate introspective and morally ambiguous characters

Drugs Without the Hot Air by David Nutt offers a rational and evidence-based analysis of drug use and policy. It challenges common misconceptions and provides a comprehensive overview of the science behind various drugs, their effects, and the societal implications. Nutt presents a compelling case for a more balanced and informed approach to drug regulation.

• Individuals who want to understand the science behind drug use and its impact on society

• Policy makers and advocates seeking evidence-based approaches to drug regulation

• People with a personal or professional interest in addiction and mental health

Blitzed by Norman Ohler is a thought-provoking book that uncovers the widespread use of drugs in Nazi Germany. Drawing on extensive research, Ohler reveals how methamphetamines and other substances were used to fuel the German war effort and even influenced key strategic decisions. This eye-opening account challenges our understanding of history and sheds light on a dark and often overlooked aspect of World War II.

• Readers who are interested in the history of World War II and Nazi Germany

• Individuals curious about the role of drugs and substance abuse within the Nazi regime

• Those who enjoy thought-provoking and unconventional perspectives on historical events

Wir Kinder vom Bahnhof Zoo is a powerful memoir by Christiane F. It tells the story of her teenage years spent in the drug scene of 1970s Berlin. The book provides a raw and honest account of her struggles with addiction and the harsh realities of life on the streets.

• Individuals who are interested in personal memoirs

• People who want to gain insight into the world of drug addiction and recovery

• Readers who enjoy stories of resilience and overcoming adversity

Food of the Gods by Terence McKenna explores the relationship between humans and psychoactive plants throughout history. McKenna delves into the idea that these plants have played a crucial role in shaping human evolution and culture. He also discusses the potential benefits of reconnecting with these substances in a responsible and intentional way.

• Individuals interested in exploring the history and cultural significance of psychoactive substances
• Readers curious about the potential role of psychedelics in human evolution and consciousness expansion
• Those seeking a thought-provoking and alternative perspective on the relationship between humans and mind-altering substances

TiHKAL (Tryptamines I Have Known and Loved) is a book by Alexander Shulgin that delves into the world of psychoactive tryptamine compounds. Through a combination of personal anecdotes, chemical formulas, and detailed accounts of the effects of various substances, Shulgin explores the potential uses and risks associated with these mind-altering substances. It offers a unique perspective on the science and culture surrounding psychedelic drugs.

• Individuals with a strong interest in psychoactive substances and their effects

• Readers who enjoy exploring the intersection of science, chemistry, and personal experiences

• Those who are open-minded and curious about unconventional perspectives on consciousness and altered states of mind

The Psychedelic Experience is a groundbreaking book by Timothy Leary, Ralph Metzner, and Richard Alpert (Ram Dass) that explores the use of psychedelic drugs as a tool for spiritual awakening and personal transformation. Drawing on their own experiences and ancient Eastern philosophy, the authors provide a guide for navigating the psychedelic journey and harnessing its potential for self-discovery and enlightenment.

• Individuals who are curious about exploring altered states of consciousness

• People who are interested in the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances

• Readers who want to understand the spiritual and psychological insights that can be gained from psychedelic experiences

Bright Lights, Big City is a novel by Jay McInerney that takes place in the bustling city of New York. It tells the story of a young man who is caught up in the fast-paced world of nightlife and substance abuse as he tries to escape from the pain of his failed marriage and the death of his mother. The book offers a raw and honest portrayal of the protagonist's struggle to find meaning and redemption in a city that never sleeps.

• Readers who enjoy exploring the fast-paced and glamorous world of New York City

• Those interested in the inner struggles and existential crises of a young urban professional

• People who appreciate a unique narrative style, with second-person point of view and present tense

Porno is a novel by Irvine Welsh that follows the lives of the characters from his earlier book, Trainspotting, as they venture into the world of the adult film industry. Set in Edinburgh, the story delves into themes of addiction, friendship, and the pursuit of success, while providing a raw and unfiltered look at the seedy underbelly of the porn business.

• Readers who enjoy gritty and raw storytelling

• Those interested in exploring the darker side of human nature

• Individuals who appreciate unconventional and edgy literature

High Price by Carl Hart is a thought-provoking book that challenges the conventional wisdom on drug addiction and the war on drugs. Through his own personal story and scientific research, Hart argues that the current approach to drug policy is misguided and perpetuates social injustice. He offers a compelling case for a more compassionate and evidence-based approach to addressing drug addiction.

• Individuals interested in understanding the complexities of drug addiction and the war on drugs
• Those looking for a thought-provoking exploration of social and scientific issues
• People seeking a personal and honest account of overcoming adversity

Random Family by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc is a powerful non-fiction book that delves into the lives of two young women and their families in the Bronx. Through years of immersive reporting, LeBlanc uncovers the complexities of poverty, love, and survival as she follows the intertwined lives of these individuals. It offers a raw and intimate portrayal of urban life and the challenges faced by those living on the margins of society.

• Individuals interested in non-fiction narratives about marginalized communities
• Those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and complexities of urban poverty
• Readers who appreciate in-depth character studies and immersive storytelling

Reefer Madness explores the underground world of marijuana cultivation and distribution in the United States. Eric Schlosser investigates the social, economic, and political implications of the illegal drug trade, shedding light on the controversial and complex issues surrounding marijuana. Through in-depth research and interviews, the book challenges common misconceptions and offers a thought-provoking analysis of the war on drugs.

• Readers interested in the history and impact of America's black market
• Individuals curious about the societal and economic consequences of illegal activities
• Those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the underground economy and its connection to mainstream industries

A memoir that chronicles the author's teenage years in New York City, where he navigates the challenges of drug addiction and street life while also pursuing his passion for basketball. It offers a raw and honest portrayal of a young man's struggle with addiction and the power of self-expression through writing.

• Anyone interested in a raw and honest portrayal of addiction and the struggles of growing up in urban America
• People who enjoy reading coming-of-age stories with a gritty and realistic edge
• Those who appreciate well-crafted and poetic writing

The Teachings of Don Juan is a groundbreaking book by Carlos Castaneda that explores his experiences with a Yaqui Indian sorcerer named Don Juan Matus. Through a series of encounters and lessons, Castaneda delves into the world of shamanism and the use of psychotropic plants for spiritual growth. This thought-provoking and controversial work challenges our understanding of reality and offers profound insights into the nature of existence.

• Individuals who are curious about exploring shamanistic practices
• Readers who are open to unconventional ways of perceiving reality
• Those seeking a deeper understanding of the nature of consciousness and spirituality