Drunk-ish: A Memoir of Loving and Leaving Alcohol - A Deep Dive Review

by Stefanie Wilder-Taylor (Author)

Updated at: 05/02/2025

In Drunk-ish: A Memoir of Loving and Leaving Alcohol, Stefanie Wilder-Taylor recounts her complex relationship with alcohol, from teenage experimentation to navigating motherhood with a glass (or bottle) in hand. With hilarious honesty, she explores the blurry line between casual drinking and dependence, questioning whether her struggle is unique or a shared experience. This isn't a typical rock-bottom story; instead, Wilder-Taylor's journey is a witty and poignant farewell to a beloved but ultimately damaging companion. Through self-deprecating humor and heartfelt reflection, she shares her path towards sobriety, proving that choosing a healthier life doesn't require a dramatic collapse, just the recognition that enough is enough.

4.6 / 278 ratings

Review Drunk-ish

Drunk-ish: A Memoir of Loving and Leaving Alcohol resonated with me on so many levels, and I'm still thinking about it days after finishing it. Stefanie Wilder-Taylor’s writing is a masterclass in vulnerability and humor; she expertly balances the serious subject matter with laugh-out-loud moments, creating a narrative that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. It's the kind of book that makes you feel like you're sitting across from a friend, sharing a glass of (well, maybe not a glass of) wine and swapping stories.

The book’s strength lies in its honesty. Stefanie doesn't shy away from the messy, complicated realities of her relationship with alcohol – the initial enjoyment, the gradual escalation, the self-doubt, the internal conflict. Her internal questioning of whether she was a "real" alcoholic is something I found particularly poignant, and her eventual realization that the improvement in her life was the only metric that mattered was both liberating and inspiring. It's a perspective that cuts through the often-judgemental noise surrounding sobriety and allows for a more compassionate and self-accepting approach. Many people struggle with similar questions, and seeing those questions reflected in the book was incredibly validating.

The humor is a crucial element too. It's not just for comedic effect; it's a vital coping mechanism, and Stefanie skillfully demonstrates how humor can be used to navigate difficult situations and process challenging emotions. The "Twenty Questions" chapter, as many reviewers noted, is a prime example of this. It's hilarious, but it also subtly reveals a lot about her mindset and journey. The wit keeps the tone light even during darker moments, preventing the narrative from becoming too heavy or preachy. This deft balance is a testament to Stefanie's skill as a writer and storyteller.

Beyond the personal narrative, Drunk-ish offers a valuable perspective on societal attitudes toward alcohol. The casual way alcohol is incorporated into so many aspects of life – from social gatherings to parenting – is subtly critiqued, prompting reflection on our own relationships with drinking. Reading about Stefanie’s envy of those who could effortlessly moderate felt deeply familiar to me, and this acknowledgment of the complexities of alcohol use further cemented the book’s relatability.

While the book is undeniably focused on Stefanie’s personal experience, it transcends the individual and becomes a powerful exploration of self-discovery and healing. It's a testament to the courage it takes to confront one's demons, and the strength it takes to choose a different path. Whether you’re navigating sobriety yourself, considering making a change, or simply appreciate a well-written and honest memoir, Drunk-ish is a captivating and worthwhile read. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.