As someone who stopped drinking more than 6 years ago but left “the rooms” almost immediately, I understand and believe this book’s core tenants. I was really excited to pick it up!

However, the neither the flow of the book nor the tone sat well with me. I’m not sure many people need to be convinced to avoid 12 step programs - at least not people who are turning to a book, outside of the Big Book, for ways to change.

Since I’m not in active addiction, I enjoyed reading that section. But if you’re looking for help staying away from drink or drugs, it might be worth skipping to the 2nd part.

Finally, this book could have been substantiated with more facts vs the author telling their thoughts. It kinda felt like I was being yelled at but not given any facts that would help me feel hopeful or concrete tools to give me steps on the way to success. This book could do well with a workbook to go alongside it.

“This book is about looking you dead in the eye and calling you out on your shit. Because once you’ve accepted the reality that your choices alone have led you here, that’s when you can actually start to change.”

“Don’t Call Me Sober, Call Me May” is fierce, brutally honest, and completely unapologetic in its message. May Tal doesn’t coddle in the least. Instead, she challenges you, holds up the mirror, and demands accountability. I loved how she ripped apart the traditional narratives we’ve been force-fed for years, especially the flawed foundations of AA and NA. She questions everything we’ve been told about addiction, powerlessness, and identity—and she does it with clarity, conviction, and lived experience.

This book is not just about sobriety. It’s about reclaiming your life on your own terms. It’s about stepping outside the limiting language of “forever broken” and choosing to heal in a way that actually makes sense. May’s perspective is refreshing, radical, and deeply human.

While I don’t personally struggle with sobriety, I have plenty of addicts in my life. May’s insights into accountability, healing, and the flawed narratives surrounding addiction gave me a powerful new perspective on what recovery can (and perhaps should) look like. This book is a feisty, no-sugarcoating eye-opener for anyone ready to rethink the way we talk about addiction. Huge thanks to May Tal, Scribe Media, and Houndstooth Press for the advance copy of this bold, wonderful read. Publishes June 24 2025.