American on Purpose: The Improbable Adventures of an Unlikely Patriot

by: Craig Ferguson

Published by: HarperCollins

Reviewed by Patty Inglish, MS

The author, Craig Ferguson, TV comedian and host of the “Late, Late Show,” became an addict after suffering physical abuse early on by teachers, school administrators, and young bullies. Of course, living in a town that was home to the manufacturer of wide leather straps for beating 5-year-olds until they bleed in school is not a fortuitous beginning. Ferguson, like many lads and lassies, began drinking alcohol in elementary school.

He writes of the Jekyll-and-Hyde of alcoholism and may still exhibit some of its artifacts, but he’s lucky to be alive after his tortuous childhood and youth. However, the magic attic of the family home that spurred his imagination and that of sister Lynn, who writes for his “Late, Late Show,” was an oasis in hell. It helped them develop humor and wit, evident these days in the puppetry occasionally used in opening song-and-dance numbers on the show. They are gems.

Craig Ferguson suffered through the heaven and hell of relationships mired in alcohol and drugs, but always worked as much as possible. Working was a signal of love in his family, so he held firm to it. From delivering Scottish milk in the middle of the night to working construction in America and doing standup in UK, Craig did a bit of everything and lost a lot. However, he dreamed of making a permanent home in America and has done so in his recovery, career, and new family.

Craig Ferguson is hilarious, deep, and scary. Certain areas of his narrative boom with the profanity-laden monologue of the pained addict that has had enough. Other, more settled and cherished sectors, are discussed with subtle charm and eloquence. Phrases used throughout the story take on several layers of meaning by the point that they meet the tear-filled eye for the final time.

Higher Power? Ferguson says he questions the existence of God, but the event that prevented his suicide was a toast of sherry to the birth of Jesus Christ.

Adult fans of the “Late, Late Show” and those that want to understand the prevention and treatment of alcohol and substance abuse, will want at least one copy of this book and maybe several.

Armchair Interviews says: Powerful read of this man’s life.