Often easier said than done, quitting smoking can be one of the most overwhelming experiences someone can face in life and while there are a plethora of guides on the market, it may seem that when you’ve read one, I have read them all. However, within the text of Learning to Quit: How to Quit and Live Nicotine Free, readers/potential quitters are empowered by virtue of its expert authors, encouraging tone, motivating success stories, great amount of resources and exercises easy to manage. Co-authored with Suzanne Harris RN and Paul Brunetta MD, this book is more than just another guide to quitting smoking; It’s more like the bible for quitting smoking.

Overall, the book presents a full-spectrum view of the intimately discreet, multi-layered process of reclaiming your life from smoking. Both well written and painstakingly organized, the text of the book is divided into two halves; the first half of which explores and delves into an intriguing series of questions related to smoking, which are also the very questions that smokers looking to quit must challenge themselves to answer; For example, Chapter 1 asks, “What makes you want to be a nonsmoker?” followed by a general description of the problem and documented original experiences recounted from the experiences of several previous patients. The connection to his struggles emerges easily as his stories sound relatable, sincere and insightful with the end result of his eventual successes being a gift of motivation.

In addition, patient photographs are included which add an extra dimension of realism to their included testimonials. Each chapter ends with a reiteration of key points, action steps, and also includes space for personal notes. In addition, within this half of the book, Chapters 9 and 10, provide a comprehensive blueprint for embarking on your personal journey to quit smoking.

As a result, as a whole, Learning to Quit: How to Quit and Live Nicotine Free is brimming with inspiration and powerfully important information presented in a multi-perspective view that draws attention to a life-threatening habit that for some (myself included) seems almost impossible. to get over. Overall this was not only an intriguing read, but a must read for any period smoker. As you progress through the content, your thinking alters as you stop and pause as you wallow in the fact that when you smoke, you have lost authority over yourself, your life, and your health. Any time is a good time to start getting it back, in fact, the sooner the better, as evidenced by the many success stories within the book, including the authors. One aspect of the book that I found particularly interesting was the poignant look at the difference between fear-based and desire-based motivation. In addition, the authors offer access to a multitude of useful resources through their Learningtoquit.com website. Ultimately, this book is a must for anyone thinking about quitting or determined to quit. It is an eye-opening, mind-altering call to take back your power.