A world-class athlete’s harrowing tale of two passions: his ardent love for gymnastics and his intoxicating romance with heroin. Gritty and raw, this is a story that goes beyond the typical addiction memoir. A gripping narrative that captures the fragility and tenacity of the human spirit and how Putignano ultimately triumphs in his recovery and redemption. Author is a world-class athlete who has just completed a tour with Cirque du Soleil Totem. He played the main character (Crystal Man). Inspirational story with universal appeal. Has already been featured on CNN’s Sanjay Gupta’s Human Factor. CNN will produce two to three more videos following the author as he undergoes surgery on both of his shoulders. Endorsement from Robert Lepage, creator and director of Cirque du Soleil’s Ka and Totem. Joe has been featured in a mini-documentary created by Cirque du Soleil. ñ Interesting approach for table of contents: using the human anatomy as a way to begin each chapter.
Editorial Reviews
Review
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (Starred review)
After reading former Olympic gymnastics hopeful Putignano’s sinister yet intoxicating memoir of addiction, recovery, and more addiction, you wind up feeling like one of his closest friends. A more powerful anti-drug missive would be tough to find.
LIBRARY JOURNAL
VERDICT Putignano’s honest memoir of drug abuse is a valuable addition to substance-abuse literature. His status as a successful gymnast and performer helps connect readers, and his impressive, erudite style results in a highly credible addition to this rapidly saturating genre.
“Joey Putignano tells a harrowing story of a life redeemed at great cost. Try as you follow his words to picture the events―for this is a movie and must be seen to be believed.”―Twyla Tharp
“A very raw, honest and harrowing account of addiction and survival by gymnast Joe Putignano”―Anderson Cooper
About the Author
Joe Putignano is a performing artist and contortionist who has toured with Cirque du Soleil. He was the star of the Cirque show, Totem. He has performed in The Times They Are A-Changin’ by Twyla Tharp and in a number of stage productions with the Metropolitan Opera. He was a competitor at the Junior Olympics National Championships, and since 1987 he has won numerous state and regional championships. Putignano has also appeared on various TV shows and has modeled for many magazines.
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