The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous written in 1939 by William G. Wilson (more commonly known as Bill W.) and some original members of Alcoholics Anonymous is a brilliant textbook for the original 12 step program. The authors relate their personal experiences with alcoholism and how they found the path to recovery. The book is a remarkably motivating, self-help masterpiece for alcoholics that are willing to be open minded and truly want to help themselves.

The main characters are both alcoholics and non-alcoholics that make enormous contributions to the book. Bill W., co-founder of A.A. describes in his crafty words the dramatic combat against alcoholism and how he overcame what was once considered hopeless. He cleverly defines alcoholism as being cunning, baffling, and powerful, and without help the alcoholic is doomed. His story is overwhelming and expresses to me how an insane alcoholic can make it back to sanity. If he can recover from this disease, so can I. William D. Silkkworth M.D., voices his opinion in a professional manner how he worked with chronic alcoholics most of his career and suggest that alcoholism is a manifestation of a disease. His story explains why

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alcoholics cannot stop drinking after he or she has hit rock bottom or after finding out they have a medical condition like wet brain or cirrhosis of the liver. Dr. Bob also a recovered alcoholic and the other founder of A.A. explains his theory of how an alcoholic can obtain and maintain sobriety by helping another alcoholic. He helped over 5,000 alcoholics before passing away in 1950. Thus explaining why millions all over the world have A.A. meeting to help each other.

The Big Book is ingeniously divided into two main parts. The first 164 pages clarify the 12 step program and how it can be used to overcome the effects of alcoholism. This was done by design to guide the alcoholic step by step through the journey of recovery. The second part of the book contains stories written by some of the original members of A.A. relating their personal experiences with alcoholism and how they overcame the phenomenon cravings of alcohol and found the path to recovery. This is also by design so the reader may connect with some or one story so that he or she does not feel alone or unique.

In conclusion, the Big Book of A.A. is a brilliant, skillfully written masterpiece for anyone that may have or knows someone that may have a drinking problem. It embraces the psyche of anyone that alcohol has affected their lives.

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Wilson, William G. The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. New York: Alcoholics Anonymous World Service Inc., 1939.

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