Jews and Booze: Alcoholism, Addiction, and Denial in the Jewish World

We Jews wrongly believe we’re immune to alcoholism and addiction—instead, individuals, families, and communities are suffering because of the stigmas surrounding addiction and recovery in the Jewish world.

“Is the 12 step program suitable for Jews? In this book Michael Levin shows with learning, sensitivity and wisdom why the answer is a resounding ‘Yes.’”
–Rabbi David Wolpe

“Shikkur is a goy.” This Yiddish phrase means “Only Gentiles can be alcoholics,” but it’s not true. Jews suffer from alcoholism and addiction at the same rate as everyone else in society. Due to the stigma surrounding addiction in our community, people are dying unnecessarily…because they believe they can’t get help. Jews and Booze attacks the stigmas surrounding addiction and recovery in our world.