Lost in the Shuffle: The Co-Dependent Reality

This book was easy to read and the ideas are presented clearly. The content is not so different from other books on codependence but his nice lists of "common problems of codependents" and rules of dysfunctional families, e.g., make it quite accessible and an easy read. My only complaint was some (in my opinion) unnecessary foul language. I am not easily offended and that isn't my objection. It just seemed jarring in the context of a serious, yet entertaining, self-help book to have 4-letter words sprinkled throughout for no apparent reason. For me, this really detracted from its message. I'm not talking about graphic sex or anything like that - primarily exclamations, as in: "Oh xxxxx!" If you will be totally distracted or offended by this, then pick a different book. If this won't bother you, then I think it's a worthwhile read in spite of the questionable language.

I got this book right before I broke up with an ex of 2 years. He was always mean to me, cheated on me, and a bunch of other stuff. I was looking at the self help titles one day, saw this, thought: 'that is exactly how I feel'. This book helped me to see where I went wrong and what I could do to be a better person. It was not a fast or easy read for me, sometimes it felt like pulling teeth. I am very glad I did read the entire book though!!! I have recommended this to many people in hopes of helping them out of their bad relationships. I know it helped me!

I have read a lot of self-help books about co-dependency and this book has been the one that always comes to mind for me and the one self- help book that I have recommended to others. It is written in an easy and fun-to-read format, yet covers many aspects of co-dependency in a serious, professional and concise way. I have given several copies to friends and family and highly recommend this book for those who have never read a book on co-dependency, but also for the seasoned self-help book reader.