The author, a well-known writer and an adventuresome traveler in remote countries, who was committed voluntarily to a high grade hospital on account of chronic alcoholism, tells the story of his seven months' sojourn. A vivid picture of the modern institutional management and treatment of mental disorder is presented. At the same time the patient-author, with his facile pen, spins a lively yarn of the humor, pathos and adventure within the restricted realm of hospital life. On the whole the book is fair and friendly. The light touch makes good reading, and a little banter at the expense of the psychiatrists will hurt no one.