This is the most current version of Hocus Focus.
Hocus Focus is a common story, rarely told, about a common trial experienced quietly by millions.
It centers on ADHD medications and their long-term effects on an individual outside their intended metrics of productivity, organization, and focus. The author examines the larger phenomenon through his own experience in this one-of-a-kind memoir. At times insightful, scattered, but wholly honest, Hocus Focus offers a critical perspective in a world drowning in its own inattention.
The author grew up in nineties suburban United States and began taking amphetamines at age seven to treat ADD (as it was called at the time). They worked, and he took them for sixteen years-until they started taking him, devolving into dependence, withdrawal, and recovery.
With eager, direct prose, he writes candidly through a personal arc of shame, depression, uncertainty, misplaced identity, and a perpetual search-not for a way out of addiction, but for a way into himself without medications after they had defined him for most of his life.
The book follows his life from diagnosis, including the documents given to his parents, through adolescence, early enjoyment of the medications, academic pressure, societal expectations, other substance use, bike trips across the United States, periods of isolation, and ultimately liberation from a system that sought to define him against his own nature.
Industry Reviews
PRAISE FOR HOCUS FOCUS
"This is the first piece of literature on prescribed stimulant use that I've truly identified with... so many of his thoughts, concerns, and experiences mirrored my own... confidence boosting to know others have been in my shoes. Add some chemistry, poetry, and adventure, and it makes for a very pleasant read."
"Hocus Focus is a witty and honest memoir that takes you through the twists and turns of adolescence and young adulthood through the lens of dependence on amphetamines... incredibly fun to read, and it helped me gain compassion and understanding."
"Nothing of its kind exists on the subject of our over-medicalized children... every parent should read this prior to considering giving these powerful substances to children."
"Really well written and compelling first-hand account of the effects of amphetamine medications on a developing mind... never preachy, but never shying away from the negative impacts."
"Finally, a book about ADHD that I can genuinely relate to... reading R.L.'s lived experience felt like reading parts of my own story... you are not alone."
"An absolutely vital text from a truly authentic voice... a perspective I wish more educators and parents had the opportunity to understand."
"Part coming-of-age story, part reckoning with legal drugs that treat ADD but can lead to addiction... tragic at times, but ultimately life-affirming."
"An eloquent, honest, and important piece on a topic that has affected an entire generation... highly recommended for anyone who has dealt with ADD."
