Toma Tells Straight

by David Toma

Book Overview

David Toma has devoted his life to speaking out against substance abuse and regularly reaches 40,000 kids and parents nationwide through his television program. Now, in this part autobiography, part anti-drug manual, he employs his tell it like it is manner to bare the facts and tell his own story of a successful battle against amphetamine addiction.

• Format: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0440200342
• ISBN13: 9780440200345
• Release Date: December 1987
• Publisher: Dell Publishing Company
• Weight: 0.25 lbs.

Customer Reviews

title pretty much says it all

This book does indeed reflect the style of many of Toma's high school presentations. I think at this point some of the more "technical" parts regarding statistics and effects of particular drugs are probably out of date (at least in the edition I've got) because so many things have gotten worse. Toma's style is straightforward and unadorned, and some people are going to be turned off by his language. But what really shines through, the ultimate strength of this book and the reason I've kept it around, is the depth of his love for kids in trouble, which is pretty extraordinary. He's been there, he's done that, and he cares.

I'd Like To Met This Guy...

David Toma was the person the TV show Baretta was based on, but Baretta didn't have the same love or passion as Toma. (There was a predecessor show to Baretta called Toma, a more accurate portrayal.)About half the book is an autobiography, and the other half is filled with information about marijuana, its dangers, and personal stories of teenagers Toma knew. Toma is very passionate, and the writing style reflects how he probably spoke in the hundreds of high schools he spoke to, with passion. It's not a dry read, but very personal and passionate.At the same time, he has a very blunt style, reminding me of Michael Savage, and lays it out, the lies of society, psychologists, and other professionals. If your teenager is a regular user of pot, and is willing to be helped, BE CAREFUL who you take them to for help, because many, many psychologists and therapists DO NOT take the effects of marijuana seriously. If the profession has changed, and does take it seriously now, it's probably due to this guy, who campaigned tirelessly in the 60s and 70s.I would love to have David Toma to dinner.

A candid look at the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

David Toma speaks with honesty, passion and compassion to young people and parents about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. It is not a harmless pastime as some would have you believe. Drugs and alcohol are an insidious disease that is killing, maiming and destroying a whole generation. Wake up people, the lives of our children are at stake. I highly recommend this book to every parent, teacher, counsellor, any person whose life touches anothers - everyone! Personal testimony. How to avoid the danger. What to do if your child is already involved in drugs. Signs to look for. Straight talk to teens. This book is a must for those who care.