Crooked Smile

What It Took to Escape a Decade of Homelessness, Addiction, & Crime

Featured in the Wall Street Journal

Crooked Smile details one man's journey that left him homeless on Skid Row, and what it took to escape a decade of addiction.

"Darkly humorous" is an understatement when it comes to this tale of addiction, homelessness, incarceration, and redemption. Jared Klickstein, the child of two heroin addicts who eventually became addicted himself, takes listeners on a raw and personal journey from his unsettling and secretive childhood in the suburbs to the slums of Skid Row. Through tales of violence, relapse, and deep inner struggle, Klickstein provides a harrowing account of his personal encounter with near-death.

But this story is not just about one man's life—it's about the hundreds of thousands of homeless and drug-addicted Americans who are on the streets right now. It's about those who need help the most, and what can be done to address the growing addiction and homelessness problems. Klickstein offers a fresh take and solutions to both epidemics, providing firsthand experience and insight into what policies should be put in place to mitigate the suffering. Crooked Smile recounts one man's escape from a hellish life—and carves a valuable path for others.

©2024 Jared Klickstein (P)2025 Tantor Media

Could not stop listening!

Listened based on a recommendation from a friend. The book was very insightful to the world of addiction and homelessness. A truly insightful account from someone who has the lived experience, which really made me reflect on my own opinions around policy and reform. His story is filled with humor and really draws you in. Easy to follow via audible as well.

I highly recommend it!

Authentic story with real solutions

A thoroughly engaging story and insights into the homeless and addiction epidemic. I listened to it while driving across Kansas.

Prescriptive Storytelling

The best stories make us think “Thank God that wasn’t me!”.

Same here. It’s a species of miracle that Jared lived through his decade of active addiction.

He did though; his thank you note is this enthralling tale of how we can be better humans as we grapple with this very real problem.

Wow, crazy story bro

If this guy can get his life together
Then anyone can
Good story
Good book
Brings hope for the hopeless

Wonderful!

What a great book! Very informative, hilarious, sad all in one! It’s a book you don’t want to put down (or in my case stop listening)