James Frey, Random House & Hazelden

In selling the rights to his book, A Million Little Pieces, James Frey originally wanted to publish this book as fiction, but that's a harder market, and non-fiction is what sells. Typically, Random House lawyers and editors go over the material ("vetting") to see if it's libelous. As fiction, Frey's descriptions of addiction and recovery would have been a good reflection on the inner hell an addict goes through in bottoming out and coming back to life---a poetic account of letting go of the devil himself. Portrayed as a non-fiction (true account) event, Frey's description of the agonizing days at Hazelden Frey could make seeking help even harder for many desperate people. I've been to Hazelden for workshops and retreats, sat in meeting with alumni--as have millions of my fellow addicts. People return for rehab, workshops, follow-up services and retreats. It's heaven on earth--a safe place where addicts and their families can face the truth in loving arms, where so many find grace and light. Hazelden is an oasis, we always know it's there, whenever we feel broken and hopeless, we can count on renewal. If you need help, please get it. Don't be afraid. Hazelden is a safe, professional, caring institution. It's the Harvard of recovery. Please don't let New York's joyless, clueless, corporate publishing industry and an easily seduced, fame-seeking writer stand in the way of your recovery. It's a matter of life and death, not reviews, book sales or Oprah and Larry King gigs.