Seeing Addiction: A Personal Memoir, by Griffith Edwards, published recently by Ubiquity Press, presents reflections by one of the most influential figures in modern addiction science. Completed shortly before Edwards’ death in 2012 and edited by longtime collaborator Thomas F. Babor, the open-access book traces Edwards’ interdisciplinary career and his international work across clinical research, epidemiology, policy, publishing, history, and law. Organized in two parts, professional reflections and travelogues, the memoir also highlights the importance of historical awareness in addiction studies. Through thoughtful editorial work, Babor preserves Edwards’ voice and makes his vision accessible and meaningful for future generations of addiction scientists.

For librarians, especially those of us engaged in preserving addiction history, Seeing Addiction offers compelling evidence of why this kind of work matters. The book demonstrates how preservation, curation, historical awareness, and respect for authors’ intent can keep a field connected to its past.

For a more in depth review, see Seeing Addiction from the Rutgers University Libraries BOOKS WE READ.

This review has been written by SALIS member:
Judit H. Ward, PhD, MLIS
Science Reference and Instruction Librarian
Rutgers University Libraries