The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

Formally titled Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How More Than 100 Men Have Recovered from Alcoholism, the Big Book is the foundational component of the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) program and has helped millions achieve recovery from alcohol addiction. 

Here, we’ll explore the role that the Big Book plays in AA and how you can use the Big Book as a part of your recovery process. Also, you will learn where to find a 12-Step AA program in your area, as well as the steps you can take if you’re ready to begin your recovery.

What is the Big Book of AA?

Alcoholics Anonymous, a text first published in 1939, has become affectionately known as the “Big Book” to those in recovery from alcohol addiction. Written by AA founder Bill Wilson (“Bill W.”) and reviewed by many of the early members of the program, the Big Book is currently available in several languages and is utilized in the more than 180 countries where AA is offered.^1,2

For all who participate, the Big Book is viewed as a critical component in AA, as it provides the framework for how to get sober and stay sober. Additionally, and arguably most importantly, the Big Book is also home to the 12 Steps and the 12 Traditions. The steps serve as the “principles of personal recovery”, while the traditions are designed to “ensure the unity of the fellowship”.

What Does the Big Book of AA Talk About?

The Big Book opens with the personal testimony of Bill W. himself, and is home to case studies of more than forty of AA’s first members, many of whom are often referred to as “pioneers” of AA.³ From there, the Big Book places focuses on a number of aspects related to achieving sobriety, such as:³

• Learning and accepting that there is a solution to the hopelessness of alcohol addiction.
• Understanding the vitality of how deeply important it is to be educated about the disease of alcohol addiction, and to in turn, become educated about it.
• The importance of developing a belief in a higher power of one’s understanding.
• What steps to take and what the results might be.
• The specific directions to follow for taking actionable steps.
• How to help others in need and support them in their sobriety.

Additionally, the Big Book provides chapters for the loved ones of those who are addicted to alcohol, including wives, employers, and families. This was done with the understanding that addiction is not something that only affects the individual, but also those around them, too.

The 4th Edition is the most recently released version of the Big Book. Over the years, many changes have been made to the Big Book to make its contents more relevant for all AA members.

How Is the Big Book Used in Addiction Recovery?

The AA Big Book is used to support addiction recovery in many ways, including:

• Personal reflection. AA members are encouraged to use the Big Book as a foundation for working through the 12 steps, as well as to reflect on their own experiences with alcohol as they read through the examples in the book.
• Group discussion. Passages from the Big Book are often used as jump-off points during discussions at AA meetings, creating a supportive environment.
• Education. The Big Book provides information on the disease of alcoholism, helping readers to understand themselves and others in their AA community on a deeper level.

The Big Book provides common ground to AA members, creating a sense of community and connection amongst members who may otherwise have little in common.

How to Find a 12-Step AA Program

Many people are introduced to AA when they begin inpatient addiction treatment or outpatient programs for drug and alcohol addiction (including intensive outpatient addiction treatment programs and partial hospitalization rehab programs). Depending on withdrawal symptoms, some people who are beginning recovery may even begin attending AA meetings during the medical detox process. Often, AA meetings are a part of group therapy during rehab and continue to serve as a recovery support group during sober living and other types of rehab aftercare.

However, you do not need to be connected to a treatment center to get involved with AA. No matter where you are, there’s likely to be an AA meeting nearby. To find an AA meeting near you, download the Meeting Guide App and start looking. Both local and online meetings can be found using the AA meeting finder.

Start Your Recovery

Beginning recovery can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At American Addiction Centers (AAC), our team is here to help. When you call us at , you will connect with an admissions navigator who will answer your questions about using health insurance to pay for rehab, finding the right treatment center, and beginning your first day of sobriety.

Learn More About the 12 Steps of AA