Habits that Changed Everything by Jes Adams and Leslie Leong is part of the non-fiction New Leaf Series, homing in with this guide to assist readers with the goal to 'Change Your Life with Good Habits and Regain Your Power to Be Happy'. Leong does this primarily by presenting their story, and as a result, the book is decidedly a motivational memoir, digging in with stories of years of drinking, chain-smoking, bar food, and a slothful lifestyle. After a drunken moment cost Leong's father a prized possession, Leong retreated in shame. What started as an isolating pity party of more drinking, smoking, and takeaway food soon gave way to changes in every aspect of Leong's life. "I tried jogging once, but my cigarette kept going out."

Jes Adams and Leslie Leong paint a portrait of a routine that, in one way or another, most Americans will likely recognize in Habits that Changed Everything. The pages drip with self-deprecating humor from Leong's narrative and it does bring levity to a difficult subject. I chuckled a few times and groaned during others. There is some uncomfortable body shaming in the past tense, but it really is important to remember that this is Leong's story to tell however they would like to, and it takes no shortage of courage to go public in this way. Leong is relatable and likable, funny and authentic. These qualities are enhanced by a conversational writing style that is engaging and well written. The book ends most chapters with bits that ask a reader questions and educate them on the biological and mental states that accompany habits. A worksheet at the back of the book will jumpstart a reader's change by provoking a heavy dose of reflection in anyone browsing through it. Overall, this is a tidy little inspirational memoir likely to resonate with readers who are ready to start making changes or at least read about someone else who made a success of it.

Leslie Leong is real. In Habits That Changed Everything by Jes Adams and Leslie Leong, Leslie does not hold back, nor does he sugarcoat what it takes to make life changes and make them stick. Leslie will be the first to tell you that he is not an expert, nor is he giving psychological advice. All Leslie is doing is sharing his story and how he changed from being a boozer to being sober. To be successful and continue on the success path, you need to not just stop drinking, but you need to change the way you think (rewire your brain). The actions he suggests will work for some, no matter what bad habit you are trying to stop. Remember, nature abhors a vacuum, so when you quit one behavior, be sure to replace it with a more acceptable one.

In Habits That Changed Everything by Jes Adams and Leslie Leong, Leslie talks about being moderate in drinking. While alcohol used to control his life, he learned to drink in moderation. Leslie does not preach to his readers that they must be teetotalers. He does not demand following specific rules to overcome any bad habit. All Leslie is doing is sharing what worked for him. It may work for you too. He did not use AA or formal groups like it. To overcome any bad habit, one must find what works for them. Leslie uses frank language. He does not use psychological jargon or demand a strict following of psychological protocol. What Leslie does do is openly share his story and what worked for him to change his life.