I am a clinical psychologist and a chemical dependency specialist. I have been looking for a book that could be a reference for my masters and doctoral students on what different drugs or alcohol do to the brain and why they are so addictive. There are many good texts out on the market but they are all very technical. This book, on the other hand, is a must for all masters and doctoral students who want to know the rudiments of chamical dependency and what it does to the brain. Don't get turned off by the book's presentation - it may seem juvenile at first but it is far from it. It is a good quick reference and a good companion to The Addiction Counselor's Desk Reference. I am using it for my master's course in chemical dependency and as a recommended read for my doctoral interns. Serina