5 ++ stars. Excellent. A terrifying and devastating insight into addiction. This is the tale of an addict from Skidrow to San Francisco, back to Skidrow. This guy has seen it all, done it all and best believe, it is nightmarish.

The level of storytelling and the raw humour in places it had no business being, made this book a stand out addiction memoir, and a stand out book overall. The author may as well have been in front of you, beer in hand, regaling a crazy night he’d had. It reminded me in many ways of Wild by Cheryl Strayed (one of my favourite books). People with a wild story to tell and the ability to tell it in its entirety, with a soul level honesty that lets the story speak for itself. The author did not spare himself any little indignity. There is a depth and authenticity that is compelling to read. I got something from this book that I had been looking for, something that doesn’t come around too often.

The author possesses such incredible insight and his experiences and opinions were enlightening. I ended this book with goosebumps.

Thanks to Netgalley for the arc. I wish the author every success with this outstanding book.

I am going to recommend this book, but, personally, it was not my taste.

I am aware of the subject matter, which is why I chose to read this, but the writing style is not my cup of tea. The description says 'darkly humor' and it was a tad boring for me.

Nonetheless, I think this book would be loved by a different audience.

Crooked Smile is more than a memoir, this book is a testament to the current realities of addiction and homelessness in the 20th/21st century. Jared Klickstein's storytelling is intricate, funny, and honest. He doesn't shy away from writing about his near-death experiences, life at Skid Row, or the moment he knew to get help. This book was a moving tribute to who he was before and now, especially capturing the idea that it's never too late to have a fresh start. Every page was a surprise, I didn't know what to expect, but in the end, I admire Klickstein's resilience to write about his journey in hopes of helping solve both epidemics. Klickstein uses his experience as a call to action to educate and advocate on behalf of homeless and drug-addicted Americans to create treatments to change their behaviors. Thank you to NetGalley for letting me read and review this book.