"Augusta Gone" by Martha Tod Dudman is a deeply compelling memoir that delves into the heartbreaking journey of a mother trying to save her daughter from addiction. Dudman's raw and authentic narrative provides an intimate glimpse into the chaos and devastation caused by drug addiction.

The book revolves around Augusta, a bright and talented young girl who finds herself trapped in the world of drugs. Drawing from her own experiences, Dudman vividly portrays the harsh realities of addiction, painting a vivid and unsettling picture of its destructive power on families. Her writing is brutally honest, capturing the desperation and helplessness experienced by both the addict and their loved ones.

Dudman's portrayal of her own emotions as a mother is one of the book's strengths. She openly shares her struggles with guilt, frustration, and fear, allowing readers to connect on a deep and emotional level. Her vulnerability adds depth and authenticity to the story, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced the challenges of parenting.

Available on Audible

Get as a free audio book
A heart-wrenching tale of a mother's journey through her daughter's troubled adolescence

The writing style in "Augusta Gone" is captivating and engrossing. Dudman's prose is poignant and evocative, immersing readers in the depths of despair while also offering glimmers of hope. Despite the heavy subject matter, her storytelling is compelling and keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.

Overall, "Augusta Gone" is a powerful and emotionally charged memoir that sheds light on the devastating impact of addiction. Dudman's unflinching honesty, relatable portrayal of motherhood, and compelling writing style make this book a must-read for anyone seeking insight into the realities of addiction and the strength it takes to overcome it.

What are readers saying?

Martha Tod Dudman's memoir, "Augusta Gone," has received a mix of positive and critical reviews. The book tells the story of the author's teenage daughter's struggles with addiction and explores the challenges faced by both the daughter and the mother. Reviewers have expressed a range of opinions on the book, offering various insights into its reception.

Many reviewers have praised the emotional and honest portrayal of addiction in "Augusta Gone." They appreciate the author's raw and vulnerable sharing of her personal experiences. Readers have been deeply moved by the book's candidness, which has helped them gain empathy and understanding for the complexities of addiction.

The book has also been commended for its realistic portrayal of addiction. Reviewers have acknowledged the author's ability to accurately capture the nuances of addiction and its effects on the individuals involved. Dudman is applauded for shedding light on the painful and often bewildering journey of addiction and recovery.

Many readers have found the depiction of the mother-daughter relationship in the book to be one of its strongest aspects. The exploration of their dynamics, which includes love, fear, frustration, and hope, resonates with readers and allows them to relate to the challenges faced when supporting a child struggling with addiction.

While reviewers appreciate the book's content and message, some have mentioned that it is not an easy read due to its heavy subject matter. The book confronts the dark realities of addiction head-on, which can be emotionally overwhelming for some readers. However, the importance of addressing these difficult topics is acknowledged.

AugustaGoneBook ComingOfAgeStory FamilyDrama