Finding support in books and in people on other sides of the aisle

Drug overdoses have killed almost a million people since 1999, with over 96,700 people dying from drug overdoses in a year.

Millions more are actively struggling with addiction and need help.

Help can come from many places, even from unexpected and surprising places – like across the political aisle.

Jim Hight’s upcoming debut novel, “Moon Over Humboldt” focuses on how we can find our biggest supporters in people we would never have imagined.

He also explores the ins and outs of AA programs, and the controversies that surround them.

Hight explores questions like, “Are AA and other 12-step groups the most effective programs for treating addiction? Or are they cults that demand adherence to religious beliefs and group rituals? Or both?”

Addiction also impacts families and friends of those struggling with addiction. Being a parent to someone in the throes of addiction is stressful and heartbreaking. Parents find themselves questioning if they did enough or if they failed.

“Moon Over Humboldt” also touches on this and questions like, “What responsibility do parents of addicts have for their children’s problems? And how can they possibly “detach with love” from their troubled sons and daughters, as the Al-Anon family recovery program recommends?”

Hight’s novel, which will be released in August, explores these topics and the impact of addiction.

“‘In Moon Over Humboldt,’ I draw on my insights and experience as a recovering addict and adult child of generations of alcoholics to paint a realistic and engaging picture of the high-stakes drama and transformative healing that occurs in 12-step programs. While these programs are well known, my novel delves thoughtfully into some of the controversies—as expressed in the questions above—surrounding 12-step groups.”

“Moon Over Humboldt” does more than just tell a story; it invites readers into the raw and often painful realities of addiction and recovery. Jim Hight’s exploration is not confined to the personal struggles of his characters but extends to the broader societal and familial impacts of addiction. By weaving these elements into his narrative, Hight challenges readers to confront their own perceptions and biases about addiction.

Books like “Moon Over Humboldt” play a crucial role in helping people connect with characters who face similar struggles, offering a sense of hope and understanding. In the novel, the logger and the tree hugger, two individuals from vastly different backgrounds, find common ground in their shared struggle with addiction. This unlikely alliance highlights the universal nature of addiction and the potential for empathy and support across social and political divides. Hight’s portrayal suggests that the fight against addiction can unite even the most divided communities, emphasizing that shared human experiences can bridge significant gaps.

The novel also delves into the intricacies and controversies of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs. By addressing difficult questions—Are these programs genuinely the most effective method for treating addiction, or do they function as cult-like organizations demanding strict adherence to specific beliefs and rituals?—Hight offers a nuanced view of 12-step programs, acknowledging both their successes and their criticisms. This balanced perspective encourages readers to think critically about the various paths to recovery and the unique needs of individuals struggling with addiction. Through characters’ experiences, readers can see their own journeys reflected, finding solace and inspiration in the successes and challenges depicted.

Jim Hight’s personal connection to the subject matter enriches the storytelling. Drawing on his own experiences as a recovering addict and as the child of alcoholics, Hight brings authenticity and depth to characters and their struggles and triumphs. 

Set for release in August, “Moon Over Humboldt” promises to be a significant contribution to literature on addiction and recovery. By tackling controversial topics with sensitivity and insight, Hight’s debut novel offers hope, understanding, and a call for compassion in the face of one of society’s most pressing challenges. As readers engage with the story, they are invited to reflect on their own views and perhaps find new paths to empathy and support for those affected by addiction. Books like Hight’s can be powerful tools in breaking down the stigma of addiction, fostering connection, and providing hope for a better future.