Starbucks Selects “Beautiful Boy”

A father’s stunning account of the struggle to help his son overcome drug addiction

Starbucks Entertainment announced today the next title in its book program: David Sheff’s “Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey through His Son’s Addiction” to be published by Houghton Mifflin – a compelling true story examining addiction, trust, and renewal told by the parent of a meth addicted teenager. Continuing its commitment to connect customers with great books, Starbucks will begin offering “Beautiful Boy” on February 26, 2008 at more than 6,500 Starbucks Company-operated locations across the U.S.

“We seek titles that will inspire conversation both in our stores and with our customers,” says Ken Lombard, president Starbucks Entertainment. “David’s story embraces a depth of emotion, support and human resilience that brings readers face-to-face with an epidemic that is sweeping the nation. We are excited to have the opportunity to present this genuine, personal memoir to our customers.”

“Beautiful Boy” takes readers through the gripping journey of addiction from a fresh perspective – that of a concerned parent. Sheff’s pragmatic storytelling winds through his own stages of denial, to the self-realized acceptance of helplessness and the struggle to protect his family, to renewed hope and recovery. “Beautiful Boy” is the fourth book by Sheff, a brilliant writer best known for works that have appeared in various newspapers and magazines including the New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, and Fortune, among others.

“Often we learn about the effects of substance abuse on the user, but we rarely hear the story from the perspective of loved ones – the friends and family members who often feel powerless,” shares Sheff. “I am gratified that in addition to carrying ‘Beautiful Boy’ in its stores, Starbucks support will encourage much needed discussion about drug abuse and addiction.”

Along with appearances at traditional booksellers, Sheff will participate in a Starbucks book tour, making stops at 10 Starbucks stores across the U.S. beginning February 26. At each location, Sheff will share thoughts on the experiences he and his family endured throughout the addiction and the resulting rehabilitation.

“We’re so pleased that Starbucks decision to feature ‘Beautiful Boy’ will bring so many readers to this very special book,” said Janet Silver, Vice President and Publisher of Houghton Mifflin.

About Starbucks
Starbucks Coffee Company (Nasdaq: SBUX) provides an uplifting experience that enriches people’s lives one moment, one human being, one extraordinary cup of coffee at a time. To share in the experience, visit www.starbucks.com.

About Houghton Mifflin
Boston-based Houghton Mifflin Company is one of the leading educational and trade publishers in the United States, with more than $1.4 billion in sales. The Company publishes a comprehensive set of educational solutions, ranging from research-based textbook programs to instructional technology to standards-based assessments for elementary and secondary schools and colleges. The Trade and Reference division of the Company also publishes an extensive line of reference works and award-winning fiction and nonfiction for adults and young readers. In 2006, Houghton Mifflin merged with Riverdeep, bringing together one of the most respected print publishers with the leader in interactive courseware. With origins dating back to 1832, Houghton Mifflin combines its tradition of excellence with a commitment to innovation. www.hmco.com.

About David Sheff
David Sheff’s work has appeared in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Wired, Playboy, Fortune, and on National Public Radio. His piece for the New York Times Magazine, “My Addicted Son,” generated several hundred letters from readers and won an award from the American Psychological Association for Outstanding Contribution To Advancing the Understanding of Addiction.



Contact Information:

For Starbucks:
Doug Cavarocchi
206-318-7100
press@starbucks.com

For Houghton Mifflin:
Lori Glazer
Vice President, Executive Director of Publicity
212-420-5840
lori_glazer@hmco.com