20 best books on drugs and partying – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Looking for a thrilling read that delves into the wild and often dangerous world of drugs and partying? Look no further! We have curated a list of the 20 best books about drugs and partying that are sure to captivate and entertain. From gritty memoirs to mind-bending fiction, these books offer an unfiltered glimpse into a realm of excess, rebellion, and self-discovery. Whether you’re seeking a cautionary tale or a voyeuristic adventure, these drugs and partying books are bound to satisfy your craving for excitement.


Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

by Hunter S. Thompson

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is a mind-bending rollercoaster ride through the wild world of drugs and revelry. This electrifying masterpiece by Hunter S. Thompson is not just another book on drugs and partying, it’s the quintessential bible of debauchery and excess. Strap yourself in for a literary experience like no other as Thompson takes you on an adrenaline-fueled journey into the heart of the American Dream, drenched in a cocktail of psychedelics, adrenaline, and sheer lunacy.

Trainspotting

by Irvine Welsh

Trainspotting, the electrifying masterpiece by Irvine Welsh, is no ordinary book about drugs and partying. It’s a wild ride through the gritty underbelly of Edinburgh, a city pulsating with drugs and revelry.

With an unflinching gaze, Welsh takes us deep into the lives of a group of friends caught in a vicious cycle of addiction, desperation, and hedonism. The narrative is raw and unapologetic, fuelled by the characters’ insatiable hunger for euphoria and their relentless pursuit of pleasure.

Through a torrent of vivid prose, Welsh paints a vivid picture of the dark realities that lie beneath the surface of the drug-fueled parties and wild adventures. He explores the depths of human depravity and the consequences that come with a life lived on the edge.

Trainspotting is more than just a drugs and partying book; it’s a searing examination of the human condition. Welsh delves into the complexities of addiction, friendship, and the search for meaning in a world that seems to offer nothing but temporary escape.

Prepare to be captivated by Welsh’s unapologetic storytelling, as he takes you on a rollercoaster journey through the highs and lows of a life consumed by drugs, partying, and the desperate search for something more.

Less Than Zero

by Bret Easton Ellis

Less Than Zero is a mesmerizing rollercoaster ride through the seedy underbelly of 1980s Los Angeles, a city fueled by excess and teetering on the edge. This electrifying novel, penned by the visionary Bret Easton Ellis, takes readers on a wild journey into a world of debauchery, hedonism, and self-destruction.

Set against a backdrop of neon lights and pulsating beats, Less Than Zero unveils the dark side of the glamorous and superficial Los Angeles lifestyle. The story follows Clay, a young college student who returns home for the holidays, only to find himself entangled in a web of drugs, parties, and illicit affairs.

In this book on drugs and partying, Ellis ruthlessly explores the consequences of addiction, numbness, and apathy. He shines a harsh spotlight on the lives of the rich and privileged, revealing the emptiness and despair that lie beneath the surface. As Clay plunges deeper into this world of excess, he struggles to maintain his own sense of self amidst the chaos and destructive allure of drugs and partying.

With its raw honesty and unflinching portrayal of a generation lost in a haze of drugs and partying, Less Than Zero captivates readers from the very first page. Ellis’ writing style is sharp and provocative, his characters hauntingly real. This drugs and partying book is a gripping examination of the dark side of human nature and the destructive power of addiction.

Prepare to be immersed in a world where the highs are temporary and the consequences are permanent. Less Than Zero is a gripping tale that will leave you questioning the allure of drugs and partying, and the price one must pay for a life lived on the edge.

The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test

by Tom Wolfe

The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test by Tom Wolfe is an exhilarating journey into the wild world of mind-altering substances and revelrous gatherings. This captivating book takes readers on a psychedelic rollercoaster ride, immersing them in a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and emotions. It is not just another book on drugs and partying; it is a vibrant exploration of altered states of consciousness, a vibrant odyssey through the realms of hallucinogens and celebrations.

Junky

by William S. Burroughs

Junky is a riveting exploration of the dark underbelly of addiction and debauchery. This electrifying book on drugs and partying delves deep into the seedy world of narcotics, where the protagonist finds himself entangled in a web of chaos and self-destruction.

Through vivid prose and a relentless narrative, William S. Burroughs takes readers on a wild ride through the relentless pursuit of euphoria and the depths of despair. This book about drugs and partying immerses us in a world where every high is followed by an even harder fall, where the allure of pleasure is overshadowed by the all-consuming grip of addiction.

With his unflinching honesty and unapologetic attitude, Burroughs captures the gritty reality of the drug scene, painting a vivid picture of the lives of junkies and their desperate attempts to chase the next fix. This drugs and partying book explores the highs and lows of addiction, shining a light on the destructive power of substance abuse.

But Junky is more than just a cautionary tale. It is a raw and unfiltered glimpse into a world few dare to explore, a world where the pursuit of pleasure and escape becomes a never-ending cycle of craving and despair. Burroughs’ masterful storytelling and uncompromising vision make Junky a powerful and unforgettable read, a book that will leave you questioning the nature of addiction and the lengths we go to find solace in a world that constantly tempts us.

Go Ask Alice

by Anonymous

Go Ask Alice: A Thrilling Journey Through the Dark Labyrinth of Temptation

Embark on a heart-pounding adventure as you delve into the gripping pages of Go Ask Alice, a mesmerizing book that unravels the intricate web of drugs, rebellion, and wild parties. Dive headfirst into a world where the boundaries of reality blur, and secrets lurk beneath every euphoric high and pulsating beat.

This spellbinding tale, penned by an enigmatic author known only as Anonymous, takes you on a wild ride through the tumultuous life of a teenage girl, desperate to find herself amidst the chaos of adolescence. In a society teeming with temptation, where innocence is easily traded for the allure of the forbidden, she navigates the treacherous path of self-discovery.

As the story unfolds, you’ll witness the protagonist’s encounters with a kaleidoscope of characters, each with their own vices and secrets. From the seductive allure of hallucinogens to the relentless grip of addiction, this book plunges you into a world where every decision has consequences, and the line between pleasure and destruction is perilously thin.

With its raw and unfiltered narrative, Go Ask Alice exposes the underbelly of a society consumed by excess. It immerses you in a whirlwind of emotions, as you witness the protagonist’s desperate struggle to escape the clutches of her own desires. Through the pages of this thought-provoking book, you’ll come face to face with the harrowing consequences of a life fueled by drugs and parties.

Prepare to be captivated by the haunting beauty of Anonymous’ words, as they paint a vivid picture of a world where the search for identity collides with the allure of hedonism. Go Ask Alice is not merely a book about drugs and partying; it is a haunting exploration of the human spirit, a journey that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.

A Scanner Darkly

by Philip K. Dick

A Scanner Darkly by Philip K. Dick is an intoxicating journey into a world of substances and revelry. Set in a dystopian future, this mind-bending tale follows an undercover detective who becomes addicted to a powerful narcotic known as Substance D, while infiltrating a group of hedonistic drug enthusiasts.

The Basketball Diaries

by Jim Carroll

The Basketball Diaries is an electrifying rollercoaster ride of a memoir that delves deep into the exhilarating highs and devastating lows of a teenage life consumed by the temptations of a wild and untamed world. This captivating book on drugs and partying, penned by the legendary Jim Carroll, paints a vivid and unflinching portrait of a young man’s descent into the murky depths of addiction, rebellion, and self-destruction.

Set against the gritty backdrop of 1960s New York City, Carroll’s raw and honest storytelling pulls no punches as he chronicles his tumultuous journey from promising basketball player to a troubled youth caught up in a vortex of drugs, crime, and debauchery. With each turn of the page, this book about drugs and partying plunges the reader headfirst into a whirlwind of reckless escapades, hallucinatory highs, and heart-wrenching despair.

In this mesmerizing tale of youthful rebellion, Carroll’s lyrical prose captures the essence of a generation teetering on the edge of self-destruction, searching for meaning and purpose in a world that seems determined to devour them. The basketball court becomes a metaphorical battleground, where dreams clash with reality, and the allure of drugs and partying threatens to swallow Carroll whole.

Yet amidst the chaos, The Basketball Diaries is not just a drugs and partying book; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of redemption. Through his unflinching self-reflection and unwavering honesty, Carroll shines a light on the darkest corners of his soul, ultimately leading him on a path of self-discovery, recovery, and artistic triumph.

More than a mere memoir, The Basketball Diaries is a haunting masterpiece that pushes boundaries, challenges societal norms, and forces the reader to confront the raw realities of addiction and the destructive allure of drugs and partying. It is a book that will leave an indelible mark on your soul, reminding us all of the fragility of youth and the transformative power of redemption.

Naked Lunch

by William S. Burroughs

Naked Lunch, a groundbreaking novel by William S. Burroughs, is a mind-altering journey through the dark underbelly of addiction, excess, and debauchery. This revolutionary book on intoxicants and revelry takes readers on a wild ride into the abyss of drug-infused chaos and relentless partying.

Bright Lights, Big City

by Jay McInerney

Bright Lights, Big City: A Wild Ride into the Underbelly of New York City

Get ready to dive headfirst into the gritty world of New York City’s vibrant nightlife, where the music is loud, the lights are bright, and the party never stops. Jay McInerney’s electrifying novel, Bright Lights, Big City, takes us on an unforgettable journey through the pulsating heart of Manhattan’s drug-fueled party scene.

This is not just another run-of-the-mill book about drugs and partying. It’s a rollercoaster ride of excess, self-destruction, and redemption. McInerney’s razor-sharp prose pulls you into the chaotic life of our protagonist, a young man grappling with loss and searching for meaning in a world that seems hell-bent on escaping reality.

As you flip through the pages of this drugs and partying book, you’ll be swept away by the intoxicating allure of the city that never sleeps. From underground clubs to glamorous loft parties, the author paints a vivid picture of a New York City that’s both glamorous and grungy, seductive and soul-crushing.

But beneath the glittering facade lies a story of heartache and self-discovery. Through the haze of drugs and the whirlwind of late nights, our protagonist navigates his way through a world where every high is followed by an even deeper low. And as he confronts his own demons, he begins to peel back the layers of his own identity, inching closer to the truth about who he really is.

So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride. Bright Lights, Big City is not your typical book about drugs and partying. It’s a raw and unflinching exploration of one man’s desperate search for meaning in a world that seems determined to keep him lost. Are you ready to join the party?

The Rum Diary

by Hunter S. Thompson

The Rum Diary, a captivating novel by the legendary Hunter S. Thompson, is a mind-bending journey into a world of intoxicating chaos. This electrifying tale takes readers on a wild ride through the lush landscapes of 1960s Puerto Rico, where the protagonist, Paul Kemp, immerses himself in a whirlwind of debauchery and revelry.

Thompson’s masterful storytelling transports us into a realm where the boundaries of reality blur, and the only constants are the constant flow of booze, the relentless pursuit of pleasure, and the pulsating heartbeat of the island’s nightlife. This is no ordinary book about drugs and partying; it is an unapologetic exploration of the human desire for escape and the consequences that ensue when one surrenders to their most primal instincts.

With his razor-sharp wit and uncanny ability to capture the essence of a moment, Thompson paints a vivid picture of a world where the line between euphoria and madness is razor-thin. The characters that populate this drug-fueled escapade are as vibrant and unpredictable as the tropical setting itself, each driven by their own insatiable thirst for pleasure and adventure.

The Rum Diary is more than just a drugs and partying book; it is a raw and unfiltered examination of the human condition, a reflection of the darker corners of our own desires. Thompson’s prose dances off the page, immersing readers in a whirlwind of sensory overload that is both exhilarating and terrifying.

If you’re ready to embark on a thrilling journey into a world where the rules of society cease to exist and the pursuit of pleasure reigns supreme, then The Rum Diary is the book for you. Prepare to lose yourself in the haze of rum-soaked nights, where every page is an invitation to indulge in the unpredictable and unhinged.

Requiem for a Dream

by Hubert Selby Jr.

Requiem for a Dream is a mind-bending rollercoaster of a book that delves deep into the dark underbelly of addiction, taking you on a wild ride through a world of narcotics and revelry.

This electrifying tale, penned by the legendary Hubert Selby Jr., is not your typical book about drugs and partying. It is a gritty and unapologetic exploration of the human psyche, masterfully weaving together the lives of four characters whose paths intertwine in their pursuit of pleasure and escape.

With prose that hits you like a shot of adrenaline, Selby Jr. paints a vivid and harrowing picture of the destructive power of addiction. From the seedy streets of Brooklyn to the glitzy heights of Coney Island, the pages come alive with a raw and unflinching portrayal of the highs and lows of drug use.

But Requiem for a Dream is more than just a drugs and partying book. It is an unrelenting examination of the human condition, exposing the vulnerability and desperation that can lurk beneath the surface of our desires. Selby Jr. peels back the layers of his characters, revealing their hopes, dreams, and ultimately, their tragic descent into darkness.

This book is not for the faint of heart. It will challenge your perceptions and leave you breathless. But if you dare to take the journey, you will be rewarded with a haunting and unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

The Beach

by Alex Garland

Are you ready to dive into a world of exhilaration and temptation? Look no further than The Beach by Alex Garland. This electrifying novel takes you on a wild ride through the underbelly of a hidden paradise, where the boundaries of reality blur and the allure of adventure consumes all who step foot on its sandy shores.

Garland weaves a gripping tale of a young backpacker named Richard, who stumbles upon a legendary beach rumored to be a utopia untouched by the modern world. But this is no ordinary paradise. It’s a place where forbidden substances flow freely and inhibitions are left at the door. It’s a book on drugs and partying like no other, as Richard and his newfound companions get caught up in a whirlwind of hedonistic pleasures.

But amidst the carefree revelry, a darker side emerges. As the line between ecstasy and madness blurs, the characters find themselves grappling with their own desires and the consequences of their actions. The book about drugs and partying becomes a cautionary tale, exploring the depths of human nature and the destructive power of excess.

Garland’s writing is vivid and immersive, painting a picture of paradise tinged with both beauty and danger. He captures the essence of a generation seeking escape and meaning, while also posing profound questions about the consequences of chasing such elusive dreams.

If you’re ready for an adrenaline-fueled journey into a world of drugs and partying, look no further than The Beach. It’s a compelling exploration of human desires, a thrilling adventure, and a stark reminder that paradise, even when found, may not always be what it seems.

The Doors of Perception

by Aldous Huxley

The Doors of Perception by Aldous Huxley is an extraordinary book that takes you on a mind-altering journey through the realms of perception and consciousness. Dubbed as the ultimate ‘book on mind-expanding substances and revelry’, this captivating masterpiece delves into the exploration of altered states of mind and the profound experiences that can be attained through the use of visionary substances.

The Acid House

by Irvine Welsh

The Acid House by Irvine Welsh is an electrifying journey into the realm of mind-altering substances and wild revelry. This captivating novel takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the underbelly of Edinburgh, where the streets are pulsating with drugs, debauchery, and unbridled hedonism.

Immerse yourself in a world where reality is shattered and boundaries are blurred. Welsh’s masterful storytelling explores the lives of a diverse cast of characters, all intertwined by their insatiable thirst for the highs and lows of life. From the exhilaration of ecstasy to the depths of despair, The Acid House delves deep into the psyche of its protagonists, revealing the raw and unfiltered truths that emerge amidst the chaos of drug-fueled parties.

In this intoxicating tale, Welsh fearlessly confronts the darker side of human nature, painting a vivid portrait of a society consumed by its obsession with pleasure and escape. With his signature gritty prose and dark humor, he explores the consequences of addiction and the search for meaning in a world that seems devoid of it.

So, if you’re ready to dive headfirst into a world where drugs and partying reign supreme, The Acid House is the book for you. Prepare to be captivated by Welsh’s unapologetic exploration of the human condition, as he peels back the layers of euphoria and reveals the raw underbelly of a society hooked on the highs of life.

The Sun Also Rises

by Ernest Hemingway

The Sun Also Rises: A Riveting Tale of Revelry and Intoxicants

Step into the world of Ernest Hemingway’s masterpiece, The Sun Also Rises, where the boundaries of society are blurred, and the pursuit of pleasure takes center stage. This gripping novel whisks readers away to the vibrant streets of 1920s Paris and Pamplona, capturing the essence of a generation lost in the aftermath of World War I.

At its core, The Sun Also Rises is a captivating book on debauchery, excess, and the allure of intoxication. Filled with a cast of complex characters, the narrative follows the lives of expatriates, war veterans, and disillusioned youth as they indulge in a whirlwind of euphoria and self-destruction.

But make no mistake, Hemingway’s genius extends far beyond a mere depiction of drugs and partying. Through his poignant prose, he delves into the depths of human longing and the search for meaning in a world forever altered by war. The characters’ relentless pursuit of pleasure serves as a backdrop for their inner battles, highlighting the emptiness that lies beneath the surface.

As the story unfolds, the reader becomes entangled in a web of love triangles, heartbreaking losses, and the relentless pursuit of the unattainable. The characters’ insatiable thirst for life mirrors their insatiable thirst for intoxicants, with both serving as a means of escaping the harsh realities that haunt them.

With Hemingway’s masterful storytelling, every page of this drugs and partying book pulsates with raw energy, capturing the frenetic spirit of the “Lost Generation” and their desperate quest for meaning. The Sun Also Rises is a literary tour de force that will leave you breathless, pondering the fragility of existence and the pursuit of happiness in a world that often seems devoid of both.

So, dive headfirst into this exhilarating journey through the realms of excess and self-discovery. Hemingway’s words will intoxicate your senses, transporting you to a time and place where the boundaries of society are blurred, and the allure of drugs and partying holds an irresistible sway.

The Great Gatsby

by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby Overview

The Great Gatsby Overview

Step into the extravagant world of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece, The Great Gatsby. Prepare yourself for a whirlwind of indulgence, excess, and a captivating blend of euphoria and despair.

Set in the Roaring Twenties, this iconic novel immerses readers in the glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age. However, beneath the shimmering surface lies a poignant tale of unrequited love, shattered dreams, and the elusive pursuit of the American Dream.

Amidst the opulent mansions and champagne-soaked parties, we are introduced to Jay Gatsby, a mysterious and enigmatic figure who throws lavish soirées to mask his longing for something more. His extravagant lifestyle serves as a facade, masking a deep yearning to recapture the love of his life, the beautiful and unattainable Daisy Buchanan.

The Great Gatsby delves into the intoxicating allure of wealth, power, and the dark underbelly of society. It explores the consequences of unchecked ambition, the hollowness of materialism, and the destructive nature of obsession.

Through Fitzgerald’s exquisite prose, we witness the rise and fall of the American Dream, a dream that promises endless possibilities but often delivers only disillusionment. The novel’s vibrant characters, such as the enigmatic Gatsby, the disillusioned narrator Nick Carraway, and the manipulative Tom Buchanan, weave a captivating narrative that is both timeless and thought-provoking.

So, indulge yourself in this intoxicating book that uncovers the inescapable allure of wealth, the fragility of human desires, and the profound consequences of a life filled with excess and indulgence. Prepare to be swept away by the captivating world of The Great Gatsby, a tale that transcends time and leaves an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

The Dharma Bums

by Jack Kerouac

The Dharma Bums, a captivating masterpiece by Jack Kerouac, is more than just a book about drugs and partying. It takes readers on a wild journey through the counterculture of the 1950s, where a group of free-spirited individuals seek enlightenment, adventure, and a deeper connection with nature.

Set against the backdrop of the Beat Generation, this drugs and partying book explores the highs and lows of life on the road, as well as the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment through Buddhist teachings. The novel follows the charismatic protagonist Ray Smith, a thinly veiled representation of Kerouac himself, as he embarks on a series of misadventures with his friend Japhy Ryder.

As the two wander across the United States, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, engage in spontaneous parties, and experiment with mind-altering substances. However, amidst the chaos and debauchery, The Dharma Bums delves deeper, exploring the yearning for meaning and the search for a higher purpose in life.

With its vibrant prose and poetic descriptions, this drugs and partying book captures the essence of the Beat Generation, the desire for freedom, and the rejection of societal norms. It celebrates the joy of living in the moment, the thrill of adventure, and the beauty of nature.

The Dharma Bums is not simply a story about drugs and partying; it is a reflection on the human spirit, the quest for enlightenment, and the desire to find one’s place in the world. It invites readers to question societal conventions, embrace the unknown, and seek truth in unconventional ways.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

by Stephen Chbosky

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is not just your average book on drugs and partying. It is a captivating coming-of-age novel that delves into the raw emotions and challenges faced by teenagers.

Set in the early 1990s, this book about drugs and partying follows the life of Charlie, an introverted and socially awkward high school freshman. As he navigates the complexities of adolescence, Charlie becomes entangled in a world of drugs, partying, and all the temptations that come with it.

However, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is much more than just a drugs and partying book. It explores the themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery in a way that is both honest and relatable. Through a series of letters written by Charlie, we get a glimpse into his innermost thoughts and feelings, as well as the experiences that shape his journey.

Chbosky’s writing is powerful and evocative, capturing the essence of teenage angst and the desire to fit in. The characters in this drugs and partying book are vividly drawn, each with their own struggles and secrets. From the charismatic and enigmatic Patrick to the free-spirited Sam, Charlie’s newfound friends provide him with a sense of belonging and acceptance.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the highs and lows of adolescence. It reminds us that amidst the chaos of drugs and partying, there are moments of profound connection and self-discovery. So, if you’re looking for a book that goes beyond the surface of teenage life, look no further than this captivating tale.

Infinite Jest

by David Foster Wallace

Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace is an electrifying and mind-bending magnum opus that delves into a world of intoxication and revelry. This cutting-edge masterpiece uncovers a labyrinthine tale revolving around the enthralling domains of narcotics and merrymaking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about drugs and partying offer a captivating exploration into the thrilling and sometimes dark world of substance abuse and nightlife. From memoirs of addiction and recovery to fictional tales of wild parties and their consequences, these books provide a unique perspective on the highs and lows of this lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling escape or a thought-provoking examination of the human experience, these books are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, grab a copy, buckle up, and prepare to embark on a wild ride through the pages of these captivating books about drugs and partying.