Summary and Reviews of Group by Paul Solotaroff

Book Summary

Six bright, successful, and remarkably self-destructive people enter into a course of dynamic group therapy in an effort to recognize and overcome their compulsions.

Six bright, successful, and remarkably self-destructive people enter into a course of dynamic group therapy in an effort to recognize and overcome their compulsions, addictions, weaknesses, and family legacies. Granted unlimited access to the sessions and the patients' lives, journalist Paul Solotaroff captures an utterly compelling real-life drama as it unfolds. Against a ticking clock--the prescribed period of treatment is ten months--a wide range of human tragedy and comedy plays out, imbuing Group with the pacing of a thriller as we learn, finally, who triumphs and who is beyond help.

Under the aegis of a charismatic, maverick psychiatrist, this engaging and diverse group of strangers commiserate with, badger, and urge one another along toward the goal of finding their "true story"--that is, the life they were meant to lead, their path to happiness--rather than accepting the "false story" they were handed in childhood and are unhappily living out. Accompanying the revelation of their fears, their hopes, their setbacks, and recoveries, come the doctor's psychologically acute insights and prescriptions on dilemmas common to us all. Group is, from beginning to end, an utterly absorbing journey along the often-excruciating and revelatory path of self-awareness and emotional healing.