Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions by Alcoholics Anonymous
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Book Reviews of Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
Book Review: A lifelong lifeline to recovery
Summary: 5 Stars
Who could have predicted that a couple of near-lost alcoholics in the 1930's would lay the spiritual foundation for recovery from the hell (no exaggeration) of alcoholism and, later, other mind-bending drugs? But Bill W. and Dr. Bob did and, some 70 years later, literally millions of sufferers worldwide have taken to "the program" heart and soul and have found the simple serenity of sobriety. Affectionately called The Big Book by "members" of the AA fellowship and those in other self-help programs inspired by the AA prototype, anything and everything that the addict who's become sick and tired of being sick and tired is here, and recovery is for the taking. With a spiritual (not religious) cornerstone as the foundation, we come to understand why we must put ourselves in the hands of the god of our understanding, why contact with Him daily is an essential lifeline and how we keep the privilege of sobriety by going into service for the addict who stills suffer. AA's 12 steps don't demand a recovery program as prescribed by someone else and recognizes that what works in recovery for one person may not work for another. Thus, the miracle! The diligent program of recovery - and it's wise to practice the 12 steps daily - is backed by the 12 "traditions" of the fellowship that explain why each of the 12 steps is mandatory for survival itself. In a press interview shortly before his death, Bill W. was asked how AA works. "Pretty good. Thanks for asking," was his answer. And that's the miracle and grace of the program and its fellowship. The individual's recovery program is unique to him and of his own making. To those still suffering with active addiction, their families, children and others impacted by the addict's sickness, this book is the lifeline. Grab it!Book Review: The best for *continued* study of the Steps
Summary: 5 Stars
This book, called the 12 & 12 around here, is the best available source for studying the Steps in more detail. Of course, the Big Book ("Alcoholics Anonymous") is the place to start and it contains the program of action required to attain and maintain sobriety. What I have found to be an effective way to work the Steps is to use the 12&12 as a reference as I go along, with the Big Book as my primary text, and discussing all of this with a sponsor (an alcoholic who has made some progress working the Steps who shares his/her experience, strength, and hope with a newcomer on an ongoing basis). Some have found it possible to get sober using just the book(s) and/or meetings, but my observation is that most of these people end up working the Steps in a confused way, or worse, don't really work them at all. Sobriety is about a new way of life free of alcohol, and this life is meant to be happy, joyous and free, not merely "dry" and miserable. The best way to achieve this is to get a sponsor and make use of that sponsor, which will likely involve reading these books and considerable other action as well. See you at a meeting!Book Review: "Don't confuse" ... reply
Summary: 5 Stars
To the person who wrote "don't confuse AA with religion," I think it is you who should reread the book. The book would never call someone "ignorant" who thinks AA is religion. It goes on and on about how DIFFICULT IT IS to accept that you are powerless over alcohol and that only by giving yourself over to a "higher power" will you get better. It's hardly "ignorant" to feel that way, such people simply are not "ready" for the AA "message."
And by the way, the whole system is "religious" in the extreme. I'm not saying that is a bad thing; AA really might be the _only_ way for an alcoholic to get better. But quibbling over the word "spiritual" vs. "religious" doesn't change the fact that the book is entirely about the "path to salvation" through "accepting this 'higher power' into your life."
The logic of AA is indisputable. That's why the first step is, look, YOU can't do it. You are powerless over alcohol. If you can't, then who? It has to be some higher power, whatever that means to you.
Book Review: Thank you Bill
Summary: 5 Stars
It's amazing to me the amount of criticism this book generates. I would like to say to anyone seeking answers in AA keep seeking and don't give up. There are many bitter souls who never obtain sobriety or are so adamant against spirituality that they would try to destroy anyone who is trying to better their life through a spiritual awakening and reliance on God. Do not listen to the scoffers. You will find your way to life and peace.
This book outlines the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and is nothing less than a philosophical tour de force of the AA way of life, how it works, and why it works. It is a wonderfully simple explanation of the alcoholic and the struggles he or she faces in this modern world. It is truly a gift. There are only a handful of books I have ever read that have changed me fundamentally to the core of my being and for the better, this is one of them.
There is a solution, there is a way out, best of wishes to all my fellow alcoholics.
Book Review: 12 and 12 has taught me a new way of life.
Summary: 5 Stars
Before I got to AA I did not know how to live life sober. I could not function without drinking. Alcohol was my life. Alcohol destroyed me and left me with nothing. By the grace of God I was put into the rooms of AA. In the rooms I found a sponsor who bought me a Big Book and a 12x12. The program in the 12x12 saved my life. It taught me a way of life which I had never dreamed possible. By reading this book and attending meetings, working with other alcoholics--I am able to live life sober. I am truly happy, joys and free. I owe it all to my higher power, the program and people in AA. Thank you AA. -Greatful Recovering Alcoholic San Diego, CA