Reviews (105)

This guy needs an editor
I got this book after reading so many great reviews of how it helped people quit. Well, I have no idea how they even got through this waste of paper. At first I thought it was just me, not paying attention to where I left off, but then I saw that some pages were exactly the same, word for word.How many times can you tell someone smoking is disgusting and you don't need willpower to quit? Apparently many. The repetition in this book made me so angry at the poor quality, I wanted to smoke more. This guy is a joke- He quit smoking through hypnosis and now he thinks he knows all the secrets? Um, no. He is just trying to make money (and apparently its working) off people willing to try any way to quit.
I quit smoking a year ago today...
...without the use of sticky patches, gross and nauseating and heart-burninducing gums, tampon-applicator-resembling inhalors, therapy, drugs, hypnosis, herbal remedies, or the like.In fact, when I bought my last pack of cigarettes was when I stopped spending money completely on smoking or anything related to it.I had smoked since I was 14 and by the time I was 25, it held no pleasure.It was something that had to be done, a monster to be fed.The one thing I liked about this book initially was that it promised me I could quit smoking by simply not smoking and nothing more and that I was not a weak addict who needed further crutches to compensate for not smoking.
Stop being a slave - this book will free you.
This book will reveal the truth to you about smoking and your addiction to it with out scare tactics or guilt. After 33 years of being a slave to cigarettes this book gave me the mental weapons I needed to break my addiction. It is not the physical addiction that causes us pain - it is the mental one. After reading this book you will have the tools you need to become a non-smoker. If you want to quit.. get this book and just read it with an open mind. Do it! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Cigarette habit    2. Psychology    3. Recovery    4. Self-Help    5. Smoking cessation programs    6. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Smoking    8. Tobacco habit    9. SELF IMPROVEMENT - ADDCTN/RECVRY TRD HC   

Reviews (114)

Sometimes you get to revisit
Years ago I worked with a lot of this material, and a lot of other material, most of it was good.My father died this last winter and stuff started shifting around a bit and at any rate it became apparent that some of what was getting in my way was codependence.
Co dependant no more
At this point I love not having to read and having this book on CD is great.
Letting Go of Control
This book is a must for anyone who is learning to "Let Go and Let God" be in control of their life as well as those of others. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Codependency    2. Family relationships    3. Patients    4. Self-Help    5. Self-care, Health    6. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    7. Substance abuse    8. Popular psychology    9. Self-Help & Practical Interests    10. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (5)

Most frustrating book ever!
I teach at addiction studies at a local university, and found this book to be redundant and frustrating. It repeats itself, as would a student who has a single thought and lots of space to fill. I find this to be the most poorly organized book I have ever taught from, and will not use it again.

Review
An excellent resource guide into motivational interviewing. A must for any therapist of addiction. It should be the number 1 tool for any educators in handling difficult situations with students.

Kudos for Miller and Rollnick
As a longtime clinician and trainer of clinicians, I found Miller and Rollnick's "Motivational Interviewing" (2d edition) extremely sound, helpful and thoughtful.A great book for clinicians to read who are tempted to push one side of a patient's ambivalence ("But can't you see you have to leave him -- he's no good for you!")and not to respect the other side of it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Compulsive behavior    2. Counseling of    3. Interpersonal Relations    4. Patients    5. Psychology    6. Psychopathology - Addiction    7. Psychopathology - Compulsive Behavior    8. Psychotherapy - General    9. Substance abuse    10. Treatment    11. Addiction & therapy    12. Psychology & Psychiatry / Addictions    13. Psychotherapy    14. PSY038000   

Reviews (51)

The Most Important Book I've Ever Owned!
This book should be required reading by everyone!I have given away copies of this book, and have one of my own.I have learned more about life from this book - how to deal with it, handle it, and survive it - then any other book I've ever read.
Spot-On
I used one of the readings in this book and one of the readings in its sequel, "More Language of Letting Go," as the topics in a recent 12-step meeting I was called on to lead.I was a little bit fearful about using these books, as this was not a meeting of the 12-step program that might be most naturally associated with Ms. Beattie and her writings (although a close cousin).The second person to speak up after I opened the meeting for sharing confirmed my belief that these books were "spot-on," and so I have chosen that as the title of my review.(You know who you are, should you ever read these words, and I thank you once again.)
Great message for daily living
I personally believe in the power of daily practice of meditation and focussing on the moment at hand.Being mindful of whats in front of us is the key to life.This book helps with the task of living one day at a time and growing each moment.Highly recommended.Also, would love if you checked out my book which is similar, "Your Daily Walk with the Great Minds of the Past and Present."Thanks and enjoy your daily journey. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Codependency    2. Codependents    3. Devotional    4. Devotional calendars    5. English    6. Meditation    7. Meditations    8. Prayer-books and devotions    9. Religious aspects    10. Self-Help    11. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    12. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (6)

A Valuable Recovery Read
Broken is outstanding!I am an alum of Hazelden, sober 22 years, and have worked as an adolescent chemical dependency counselor.This book is the best description of addiction, treatment, relapse and recovery that I have come across.It is well written and well documented from the author's journals and correspondence from his father.
Powerful and Brutally Honest
I was amazed once I started reading at how well this book reads.Even more amazed that it wasn't one of those books about someone who went into recovery and never relapsed. The pain of relapse is something Mr Moyer described perfectly. I share in Mr Moyers addiction and now I have been blessed with sharing his recovery.I have ordered from Hazelden for some time now, so when this book came out, it was a must add to my recovery library.Thank you William, for sharing your story in print so that so many struggling addicts can see that there is hope and the miracle is just around the corner.It works if you work it!

Broken: My Story of Addiction and Redemption
Thank you so much, William, for sharing your story.It takes enormous courage to ascend out of the nightmare of addiction, and further courage to tell that story!You do an immense service to the many millions who struggle with this disease, both as addicts and alcoholics themselves, but also for the many others who love them and want to do the right thing.
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Subjects:  1. Biography    2. Biography & Autobiography    3. Biography / Autobiography    4. Biography/Autobiography    5. Cocaine abuse    6. Drug Abuse    7. Drug addicts    8. Editors, Journalists, Publishers    9. Journalism (General)    10. Personal Memoirs    11. Rehabilitation    12. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    13. United States    14. Biography & Autobiography / Personal Memoirs   

Reviews (49)

It saved my best friend! A must have!
I could sense for a long time that my best friend was going through some serious personal problem but he didn't want to tell me about it. A few weeks ago he came to me and confessed that he is addicted to sex, his life was getting out of control and he badly needs help and support. As a recently married I too was quite prone to be more sexually active so I decided that it is a very good idea to have this book just in case. I gave it to him as well as the bestseller "scientifically guaranteed male multiple orgasms and ultimate sex".As he shared with me Dr. Carnes proved him black on white this is a kind of diseases which can be cured. Then scientist Ritz showed him how to gradually eliminate each of the health problems caused by chronic overejaculating. My best friend was getting better with every day and I am so thankful to these 2 great authors for covering A-Z the psychological and physiological aspects and treatment of this serious problem. That's why I urge you to get both books because they compliment each other perfectly. They WILL help you to understand and eliminate your addiction and have normal and incredible sexual life after that!

Great service, fast shipment!
Happy to recommend - shipped very quickly, book in excellent condition!

Well written
Sexual addiction is almost impossible to understand or comprehend by the non-sexually addictive person. This book is written in a way that is easy to read and very easily understood, by both the addict and the non-addict. It puts into perspective what, why and how the sex addict functions. It takes the burden of guilt and frustration "off" his/her partner and re-inforces that addiction is a disease, and in many ways not a choice. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. General    2. Self-Help    3. Sex addiction    4. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Sexual    5. Illness & addiction: social aspects    6. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    7. Popular psychology    8. Self-Help / Substance Abuse    9. Sex & sexuality   

Editorial Review

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Reviews (1773)

A Million Little Pieces - James Frey
This is a book written from the heart; filled with deep soul searching and honesty. I'm familiar with alcohol and drug addiction. I'm familiar with treatment centers. For those of you who know this road - this book touches home. For those of you who don't - don't be the first to throw that proverbial 'stone'. I've heard the reports of the 'untruths' regarding this publication. I read it anyway. Pain is an immense ocean. The depth of that ocean is different for each of us. This 'message' could be a gift for many; a starting point, a different way of looking at life and it's unkind lessons. This book offers an open hand to start you on a journey towards reality; toward clarity. For those of you who belittled this book - be it truth or sensationalism - be cautious! You never know what life holds for you or yours around the next bend. The information offered here, the idea of taking that 'first step towards recovery', the process of becoming HONEST with yourself and others, could well be the salvation for someone you love. Yep, it's got some rough language. Did you really expect anything else from a drug addict? Common! Gimme' a break! Get real with yourself! Keep an open mind and dig into this book! It's a good read!
Frey touched my heart
I have always wondered what happens in a Treatment center. How do people stop being an addict? What do they do all day? What kind of people are in a treatment center? This book answers those questions and shows that there's hope for every addict. I think it's an excellent read. A gift to all addicts.It's exiting, I couldn't put it down and I thought about it quit a lot.

As authentic as a daytime soap opera
I'd heard the buzz (both pro and con) and thought I'd take an independent read. I was dismayed with this book.
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Subjects:  1. Biography & Autobiography    2. Biography & Autobiography-Literary    3. Biography / Autobiography    4. Drug addicts    5. General    6. Minnesota    7. Non-Classifiable    8. Nonfiction - General    9. Novelty    10. Personal Memoirs    11. Rehabilitation    12. Specific Groups - General    13. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    14. Biography & Autobiography / Personal Memoirs   

Reviews (12)

Read this book!!1
The principles of this book will help bring you rfamily together in a spirit of empathy support and love, a must read if yoou think that substance abuse may be harming someone you love.

Love First
I found this book to be helpful.It is more for people who love a person who is currently on some form of substance.It talks about intervention, etc.I did however find some of the chapters to be useful for dealing with a person either while it's before or after they decide to quit using their "drug of choice".It taught me to be patient and show lots of "LOVE"

Love First, a way to enter the path to recovery
People who are addicted to alcohol fall into one of three categories, according to the Jays: those who know it and want help (whether consciously or unconsciously), those who don't believe it's true of themselves, even though they may be the first to spot alcoholism in others, or attribute it to them; and the third, slightly smaller group that wavers between the first two, sometimes convicted and guilty, sometimes defiant. To all three of these groups the Jays, a pair of strong advocates for recovery, urge us to love them first.
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Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. Drug addicts    3. Family Relationships    4. Rehabilitation    5. Self-Help    6. Substance Abuse    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    8. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    9. Drug addiction & substance abuse    10. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (48)

no stars would be too much
if god is what you want, this is the book for you. If is a way to seperate your self from the horror of alcohol abuse, look else where.This is a book review, not a whos right or wrong blog. After reading this book, I have deducted that the teachings are cult like and support no scientific fact. The version of the book has been updated over time, but still contains the premise originally written over 69 years ago. 69 years? You are going to treat a behavior problem with a technique that old? Its like cutting off your leg to treat a broken ankle. Things have changed, along with the treatment of substance abuse. About the authors, You have the internet USE IT. William Wilson, writing the book was going through withdrawls and under the influence of a drug called belladonna. Any one would report "seeing god" under those circumstances. Wilson was also unfaithfull to his wife, with new members of AA, this is called 13th stepping. Most of all he plagerised other authors to develop his program. The Steps were stolen from a man named Buchman, who wanted control through his religous beliefs, (the Oxford Group) and was a Hitler supporter. Please, if you are getting mad at my review, Check the internet or other books that support my statements.
Superb book, but I can't believe the price.
I'm in AA, and was just perusing the Amazon pages.I came upon the Big Book, and was totally amazed at the price they're charging. At ouR AA group, we sell the Big Book for $6.00, $6.50 for the large print.Go to a meeting, sit & listen, and then go buy it there.It'll save you a ton of money, and you might hear something that sounds familiar.

Amazing philosophy of life
This book is amazing.It has a lot to offer anyone, not just alcoholics, as a philosophy for living.If you strip away all the specifics about drinking and about "God," the _point_ of the book is very Buddhist in a way, very Christlike (as opposed to Christian): take care of the plank in your own eye.Live and let live, stop trying to control others, accept the world rather than trying to control it, don't argue, and so on.Whether you believe in "God" or not, the philosophy of not struggling against the world is beautiful. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Recovery    2. Self-Help    3. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    4. Twelve-Step Programs    5. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (9)

Must Have Book for Anyone Involved in the 12 Steps
This book is truly a must have, inspiring, comprehensive, and enlightening guide through the 12 steps within any recovery program.I have used this with countless clients in therapy and have had nothing but great results.This book is highly recommended for all clinicians and anybody wising to grow in the 12 step process.

Stronger for Addicts than Co-Addicts?
Patrick Carnes has been a grounder-breaker in every sense concerning sexual addiction. I feel ambivalent about this offering, however. I think on the whole it's a stronger book for addicts than for codependents. The material seems to revolve around addiction with co-addiction serving as an afterthought, both figuratively and literally. As a recovering codependent, I yearn for materials that address my issues head-on instead of relating me to the addicts in my life. Something about this material makes me feel second-class and doesn't inspire me to go as deeply as I could.
SAA of Tulsa
The primary workbook for our Fellowship in Tulsa.We've also tried 4 others, which are good, but have come back to this one.Sometimes a little clinical, but very thorough.Should be done with the guidance of a sponsor.Just "surrender" to following the book and results WILL come.Prepare to spend several months to really examine yourself, do the writings, and truly internalize the Steps.Can't be rushed, yet can't procrastinate.Carnes is really the "guru" on this topic.We've read most of his books, and their just great. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Neurology - General    2. Self-Help    3. Twelve-Step Programs    4. Complementary Medicine    5. Popular psychology    6. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (12)

READ ALL ABOUT IT**** THE REAL STORY
The truth of the matter is:
Victim Mentality
This is a snippet of an essay by Dr. Robert Westermeyer, an outstanding addiction counselor...
good book a little longer to get
An excellent book for those who are continuing recovery! We already have the scattered bits and pieces of information, now what do we do with them and how do we integrate them into our lives and become the people we were born to be. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Codependency    2. Family life    3. Neurology - General    4. Popular works    5. Psychology    6. Self-Help    7. Self-care, Health    8. Substance abuse    9. Self-Help / Substance Abuse    10. Separation & divorce   

Reviews (6)

A useful and inspiring resource
This book, intended for therapists, is a comprehensive, compassionate, and accessible guide to what Najavits establishes is the first crucial step for someone struggling with PTSD and substance abuse: learning to feel safe. It is also an excellent resource for patients who want to help themselves. What I like best is that the book is filled with checklists, stories, exercises, and quotations such that I can open to nearly any page and find ideas that are both practical and inspirational. In short, this is a great book.

A Very Powerful Book
Thank you for writing such a great book.I have suffered from addictions for years, tried many books and many methods.Working with a group or individual is one thing, but for me, nothing helps more than a book.It's on call twenty four hours a day and I can easily reference it.As far as books go...this one is by far the best.The most comprehensive and in-depth book I've read so far.It provided tremendous support and guidance on issues that often result in isolation. Most of all, it didn't talk down to me as a reader.That's something I don't need!Thank you for making this book available and writing it in such a helpful way.

Extremely useful volume for professionals
I can see why this book got such rave reviews and is such a best-seller.It's a superb book, offering both real insight into trauma and addiction, as well as hands-on clinical tools. As someone in the field, I have found both the philosophical and practical aspects of Najavits' work incomparable. On top of the impeccable professionalism, is her impressive writing. This is a must buy for anyone interested in this area. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Behavior Therapy    2. Cognitive Psychology    3. Cognitive therapy    4. Handbooks, manuals, etc    5. Patients    6. Post-traumatic stress disorder    7. Psychology    8. Psychopathology - Addiction    9. Rehabilitation    10. Substance abuse    11. Drug addiction & substance abuse    12. Psychology & Psychiatry / Addictions   

Reviews (17)

It Works if you Work It!
The steps in this book work, if you do what they suggest!
"Don't confuse" ... reply
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."
DON'T CONFUSE AL-ANON WITH RELIGION
The negative comments left by a few are fairly ignorant, in that Al-anon is NOT a religion NOR does it EVER suggest that a person BE religous in order for the program to work.It asks people to be SPIRITUAL, which is entirely different. Those who don't understand what this book is about (which IS part of the process by the way) should GO to an Al-Anon meeting and get themselves educated, instead of JUST reading a book and then discounting the entire program and book out of ignorance. They are doing themselves AND their loved-one a HUGE disservice! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcoholics Anonymous    2. Alcoholism    3. Psychology    4. Recovery    5. Self-Help    6. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    7. Treatment    8. Twelve-Step Programs    9. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (15)

There's so much I never knew...
Just when I think I'm getting out, they pull me back in! The many aspects of the addictive personality are complex and TRICKY. The chances of understanding how it all works, apart from an excellent book like this, are remote.
counselor
It is easy to read and understand concepts for entry level counselor or persons who are interested in addictions.

Excellent Read
Nakken's book provides a clear and comprehensive description of the main aspects of the addicted person.He discusses the stages of addiction, Society and addiction, family and addiction, and recovery.this book is definitely a useful read for those intereste in understanding addiction and what is actually going on within the addicted individual.However, we must always remember that people are unique and each case is individualized, thus these are generalizations and may not perfectly fit all who are addicted.The most imporatnt thing to realize is addiction is a disease and there is treatment.Highly recommended book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Addicts    2. Compulsive behavior    3. General    4. Neurology - General    5. Psychology    6. Psychopathology - Compulsive Behavior    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    8. Addiction & therapy    9. Alcoholism    10. Behavioural theory (Behaviourism)    11. Drug addiction & substance abuse    12. Popular psychology    13. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (39)

The Sun Shone on Me
Get the "Expanded Edition" if possible. Alcoholic issues and mental health issues have been around for quite some time. Woititz Marries the two in a wonderful owner's manual for your (or someone close to yours soul) The person close to me was severely compromised by her (sober) parents ACoA issues and the other siblings' willingness to buy into the insanity. If you can find a book called "Grandchildren of Alcoholics" by Ann W. Smith, it is an excellent resourse for people who dont see alcoholism in their own families, but perhaps do see it in their grandparents. Would love to hear from others on the same journey.

Educational/Easy to Read
This book is excellant for ACOA's who wish to gain a better understanding of how their childhood has lasting effects on their life as an adult.It was my first book on the subject, and a great introduction.

Not a good first book on the subject
I've read a number of books on this subject. I wouldn't say this book was unhelpful but is too absolute in its information to be anything but alarming to anyone tentatively looking for answers. It's also not very well written. I would suggest reading either "Recovery, A Guide for Adult Children of Alcoholics" by Gravitz & Bowden (an excellent first book) along with "A Primer on Adult Children of Alcoholics" by Cermak for an added layer; and then, absolutely essential as a more in-depth book: "Children of Alcoholism - A Survivor's Manual" by Seixas & Youcha. Leave the Woititz book for more information. By all means, read it. It does have excellent information; just remember the adage "Take what you need and leave the rest". Something she unfortunately forgot to include. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Adult children of alcoholics    2. Alcoholics    3. Alcoholism    4. Codependency    5. Family relationships    6. General    7. Recovery    8. Self-Help    9. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Alcoholism    10. United States    11. Adolescent children    12. Coping with drug & alcohol abuse    13. Marriage, family & other relationships    14. Self-Help / Codependency   

Reviews (4)

Daily Reading and Daily Living is the Key to Sobriety.
I kept this book with me for the first year of sobriety and mindfully lived what it said throughout my daily life.Following this I bought and utilized many other daily meditation books and continue to do so.I also wrote and published my own form of this book.To read and live inspiring words each day is effective, healing, and will lead to success and serenity in your life.Highly recommended also of course recommend my book, " Your Daily Walk with the Great Minds of the past and Present"Check it out and begin transforming your life.

Help each day
This book is good for daily meditation. I would also recommend the book An Encounter with A Prophet to get closer to God.

Great Book !
I read this book every day, it is set up with a daily meditation and prayer. Although it only takes a few minutes to read I feel it has greatly helped me to stay sober for six years, by concentrating on 24 hours a day. Gary H. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Meditation    2. Self-Help    3. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    4. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    5. Personal & public health    6. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (9)

Phenomenol Book
Incredible little book that I discovered when I first got sober.Practical suggestion for daily living without a drink.This book was exactly what I needed when I began my life transformation.Highly recommended for anyone that desires to live a day at atime without a drink.

Living Sober
This book has great, practical suggestions on dealing with situations and feelings that are troublesome for alcoholics. It does not "preach" or talk down to the reader.Every AA meeting should make this book available!
This should be the 2nd book you acquire...
...right after "Alcoholics Anonymous" aka "The Big Book". First, as a recovering alcoholic myself, I must comment on some of the previous statements here that border on reckless endangerment:
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Subjects:  1. Recovery    2. Self-Help    3. Substance Abuse & Addictions - Drug Dependence    4. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    5. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (2)

A woman's Way is a terrific guide
A Woman's Way Through the twelve steps workbook is a great tool to accompanyStephanie Covington's book "A Womans Guide through the Twelve Steps.The questions are insightful and to the point without being overwhelming.I have found these two books to be an immeasurable asset to working the twelve steps.

Heads Up Ladies!
This is definitely a head's up and listen up for women in recovery....using this in conjunction with "A Womans' Way Through the Twelve Steps" is a sure way to add to any other 12 step program that you may be using.I am a person who has been in recovery for 10 years, and found that many women's issues were not being addressed and this combination is an absolute winner.It can be used by yourself, working with a sponsor or in a group ..some wonderful "aha's" have been experienced and so many women helped in this process.Read it...do it....you won't be sorry. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Drug And Alcohol Abuse Treatment    2. Mental health    3. Obsessive-compulsive disorder    4. Recovery    5. Self-Help    6. Sociology Of Women    7. Substance Abuse & Addictions - General    8. Treatment    9. Twelve-Step Programs    10. Women    11. Drug addiction & substance abuse    12. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    13. Popular psychology    14. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (30)

Very Very TRUE!
My husband and I both endured shame and guilt based rearing in our youth.Faced with the birth of our second child due this fall, we felt the need to close some old issues that continue to reoccour in our own parenting.We picked up this book and read it in one night.We cried because this book spoke to the very core of our issues and gave us great ideas into healing our past.I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who had a difficult childhood.

Finally some tools to work with
I am so grateful for this book as it has already given me so many insights. Somehow I thought that I was bad or defective, that there was something inherently wrong with me. Having read this book I realise I am the person years and my parents have made me into. A child whose family was dysfunctional and whose parents leaned heavily on alcohol as years went by, how could I have grown into a healthy young woman? Instead, I am an intelligent perfectionist, an over-responsible workaholic who tolerates being treated badly and neglects her own needs. However, I have been able to see that I can change - that I do have the right to learn to live a balanced and happy life. I also bought the work book that goes with this text book, and am thoroughly enjoying filling it in. My mind is working overtime making new connections and trying to make sense of my life, but I wouldn't change it for anything.

Not a good place to start
This is not a book for "newbies." If your family is f*cked up, you'll do better with information that is more basic to supporting your getting OUT, rather than how to survive being in it... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Adult Children of Alcoholics    2. Adult children of dysfunctiona    3. Adult children of dysfunctional families    4. Codependency    5. Inner Child    6. Recovery    7. Rehabilitation    8. Self    9. Self-Help    10. Treatment    11. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    12. Popular psychology    13. Self-Help / Substance Abuse   

Reviews (65)

if god is what you want.
if god is what you want, this is the book for you. If is a way to seperate your self from the horror of alcohol abuse, look else where. By reading the previous reviews, all I see is a bunch of name calling. AA members learn to seperate themselves from the so called NORMIES, and only find understanding through surrounding themselves with other alcoholics. This upsets them, and leads to the attacks you read here. Understand, this is a book review, not a whos right or wrong blog. After reading this book, I have deducted that the teachings are cult like and support no scientific fact. The version of the book has been updated over time, butstill contains the premise originally written over 69 years ago. 69 years? You are going to treat a behavior problem with a technique that old? Its like cutting off your leg to treat a broken ankle. Things have changed, along with the treatment of substance abuse. About the authors, You have the internet USE IT. William Wilson, writing the book was going through withdrawls and under the influence of a drug called belladonna. Any one would report "seeing god" under those circumstances. Wilson was unfaithfull to his wife, with new members of AA, this is called 13th stepping. Most of all he plagerised other authors to develop his program. The Steps were stolen from a man named Buchman, who wanted control through his religous beliefs. Please, if you are getting mad at my review, Check the internet or other books that support my statements. Support your recovery.

A desire to stop drinking, readiness at the bottom and the application of these TENETS has kept me sober for over 31 years.
Have just ordered another copy of "The Big Book" as mine has about worn out. Alcoholics Anonymous - the book and program together have stood the test of time. Many tens of thousands of people have become sober long term by keeping the "Big Book" handy. Alcoholics Anonymous literally saved my life. It is a blueprint for living that could benefit anyone. The seriousness of Alcoholism can be identified as an insidious killer of person