Go Ask Alice

Go Ask Alice is a 1971 young adult novel written by anonymous author Beatrice Sparks. The book chronicles the diary entries of an unnamed 15-year-old girl who struggles with drug abuse and depression. It has become one of the most widely read books in American literature, being both critically acclaimed and controversial for its frank depiction of teenage issues such as drugs, sexuality, eating disorders, and suicide.


The story begins when "Alice" moves to a new town with her family after having been sexually assaulted at her previous home. She soon discovers drugs are readily available among her peers and falls into a cycle of experimentation that leads to addiction. As she attempts to navigate high school life while struggling with substance abuse problems, she also deals with many other adolescent issues, like dating woes and peer pressure from boys. Throughout this journey, we see how Alice's naivety gets taken advantage of by those around her; however, we also witness the power of resilience as she strives toward self-acceptance despite all odds stacked against her.


In addition to providing readers with valuable insight on drug use amongst teenagers during the 1970s era it was published in, Go Ask Alice serves as an important reminder that mental health should not be ignored or stigmatized but instead seriously treated so individuals can find peace within themselves no matter what challenges they face externally.