Dear Dad

Comedian Louie Anderson grew up in a household held hostage by the unpredictable and violent behavior of an alcoholic father. In letters that are poignant and often angry, yet touched with the humor that characterizes his monologues, *Dear Dad* chronicles Anderson's hard journey from shame and fear to understanding.

Anderson's many appearances on *The Tonight Show*, his specials on HBO and Showtime, and his concerts across the country have won him wide acclaim. But when he found that, despite his considerable success as a comic, he felt no relief from his pain, Anderson entered therapy and joined an Adult Children of Alcoholics group. Only then was he able to break a lifelong pattern of denial.

Includes an introduction by Anderson and a selection of letters from *Dear Dad* readers about their own experiences.

"Compelling, tender, funny, and well-written. . . . I respect Louie's courage for talking so openly. Writing the book may have helped the writer in his healing process, but it will also assist readers in theirs."--Melody Beattie, author of *Codependent No More*