Dale Smith

The First Word Dale Smith

"The First Word" is a riveting and spell binding first hand, fictionalized account of alcoholism. drug addiction, family violence and indescribable dysfunction. It chronicles the story of several veterans (Colin, Bob and Duane) through their painful recoveries while in a Veterans Affairs (VA) inpatient addictions treatment program. "The First Word" passionately and colorfully portrays their journey into sobriety and clean living, and how they come to grips with their out of control lives, as they attempt to discover a new way of life and living. The language of the characters is raw, "street" and will engage the reader into their agonizing journeys of change. The novel's "in your face" dialogue will captivate the reader by uncovering for the lay person, the previously unknown and mysterious, counseling and therapy process of an in patient therapeutic program. As a Vietnam veteran and licensed Professional Counselor, the author presents an intimate insider's view to his audience, and gives them admission to the painful but potentially rewarding process of physical, emotional and spiritual rebirth. "The First Word" offers an enjoyable, mesmerizing roller-coaster ride of emotions, healing and recovery, through the eyes of an incredibly diverse group of veterans from the city of Baltimore.